With the temps forecasted to get into the upper 80’s and lower 90’s over the next couple of days, it’s good to know where to cool off. Here in the western Maine mountains the landscape offers many “cool” spots to find relief from the hot weather. Lets start just south of Kingfield and make our way north up rt 27 to Eustis:
The Wire Bridge New Portland: Just off rt 27 in New Portland you’ll find the historic Wire Bridge, which crosses the Carrabassett River. Here you’ll find a nice beach with picnic tables with the wire bridge towering above. The river offers a number of deep pools and shallow areas. This makes the area great for kids.
Kingfield Dam: The Kingfield dam on the Carrabassett River is located at the junction of rt 27 and 16. Many people swim in the deep area just above the dam and below the dam there are some great spots to hang out on the ledges along the river.
Claybrook: Just before the Claybrook Road (Ira Mtn) off rt 27 there is a large eddy with ledges across the river. There is a short trail that leads down to the river where the guardrail ends just before the turn for Claybrook road on rt 27. This is a great spot as the pool is deep and the water stays cold.
Spring Farm Carrabassett: At the north entrance to Spring Farm Rd off rt 27 is a small turn-off where a sharp bend in the Carrabassett makes a great swimming spot. The water is deep and very cold. Perfect for a quick dip to cool off.
Carrabassett Town Park: The Carrabassett Town Park offers a couple different options. From the town office, the Carrabassett River just above the Carriage Road bridge offers many shallow pools and places to relax and cool off in the river. Also behind the town office is the Carrabassett town pool. For more information on the town pool visit carrabassettvalley.org.
Cathedral Pines Campground, Eustis: Just north of Stratton you’ll find the Cathedral Pines Campground. The campground offers a public beach with outstanding views of the Bigelow Range over Flagstaff Lake.
Myers Beach, Eustis: To get to Myers Beach take Flagstaff Rd, across from the Eustis Post Office on rt 27. Follow Flagstaff Rd all the way to the end (the last 1/4 mi of this road can have some tricky water spots to drive through). Once at the end you’ll find a nice sandy beach with great views over Flagstaff Lake and the Bigelow Range. This is a popular camping spot as well.
Hope this helps narrow down your search for places to cool off during those hot summer days. Remember to always stay hydrated and don’t forget the sunscreen, & as always, pls carry in & carry out to leave no trace…..!
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