Posted in News | December 29, 2020

Looking for Things to Do in Greenville Maine?

Greenville, Maine is the largest town on the southern tip of Moosehead Lake. Planning a vacation to Maine? Think Moosehead Lake for the best outdoor adventures and things to do in Greenville Maine! The outdoor activities to choose from are endless in the Greenville area. Choose from activities like boating, fishing, hiking or tackle the world class whitewater river rapids. Slow things down and browse the local shops for Maine made products, and of course keep your eye out for… MOOSE! Greenville is the perfect place in Maine for outdoor adventurers and travelers looking for a destination that is off the beaten path. Keep reading for details on how to maximize your “things to do in Maine” vacation checklist!

Check out some of our Top Picks for Outdoor Adventures in Greenville below!

Fishing

At the top of the list for things to do in Greenville Maine starts with Maine’s largest lake, Moosehead Lake! Moosehead Lake is the largest mountain lake in the Eastern U.S. and is the headwaters (source) of the Kennebec River, West Branch of the Penobscot River, the Piscataquis River, and the Pleasant River. There are over 80 islands scattered throughout the lake. Sugar Island being the largest and Deer Island to the west. Visitors are often drawn to Moosehead Lake because of the variety of fishing. Some fish you might catch are brook trout, rainbow, brown and lake trout (locally known as togue), salmon, smallmouth and largemouth bass. Bring your boat or rent from a local dealer for a great day on the water!

Mt. Kineo State Park

Mt. Kineo State Park is a highlight for guests looking for things to do at Moosehead Lake. Just northwest of Greenville is the town of Rockwood. A water taxi service departs to Mt. Kineo for hiking, golfing and enjoying the beaches of Mt. Kineo State Park. At elevation around 1800 feet, Mount Kineo dominates Moosehead Lake with a dramatic cliff face rising 700 feet above the lake surface. Plan to depart Greenville in the morning to spend the day exploring Mt. Kineo! Or, consider a float plan tour of Mt. Kineo with Currier’s or Jack’s Air service.

Katahdin Cruises

Step back in time at the Moosehead Marine Museum, home to the historic Katahdin Steamship, a fully restored 1914 steamboat that once played a vital role in the region’s logging industry. Located in Greenville, the museum offers a fascinating look at Moosehead Lake’s maritime history through exhibits featuring vintage photographs, artifacts, and stories of the people who navigated these waters.

The highlight of the museum is the opportunity to board the Katahdin for a scenic cruise across the lake. This one-of-a-kind experience allows visitors to take in breathtaking views while learning about the boat’s rich history and the role it played in transporting logs across Moosehead Lake. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for a unique way to explore the area, a visit to the Moosehead Marine Museum is a must while in Greenville!

Whitewater Rafting

Greenville is the “hub” at Moosehead Lake with charming stores, restaurants, and nearby to everything outdoors. Looking for guided outdoor adventure? Northeast Whitewater offers daily whitewater rafting trips on the Kennebec and Penobscot Rivers. Rafting is the perfect rainy day outdoor activity because you are guaranteed to get wet anyway! From mild trips ideal for families and first timers, to more challenging whitewater rapids. Rafting trips launch every morning and include transportation, a delicious riverside BBQ lunch, and all of the necessary equipment.

Moose are a Must!

The signature thing to do in Greenville Maine is clearly all about moose. The area is MOOSE-head for a reason! Guests from near and far are always seeking out that up close and personal encounter with a moose. Who doesn’t want to share with their friends a photo of a 900 pound, all legs, big ears moose face?! Greenville’s claim to fame is that moose outnumber people 3 to 1, but it’s not that easy finding a moose on your own. Visitors are encouraged to hire guides to take them out to the right spots for moose sightings. Moose tours are offered daily in the morning and evening with your choice of land or canoe. Looking for a personalized experience? Opt to do a private moose tour with a dedicated guide for you and your family.

Hiking

Hiking in the Greenville Maine area is a highlight for many visitors. With numerous waterfalls within 10 miles of our location and hiking trails from easy to moderate, there is a hike for everyone! Choose to spend a whole day on the trails or a quick 2-3 miles – No matter the hiking adventure, there are scenic views, mountain ponds, and perfect tucked away picnic spots for you and your family to enjoy. The well known path the Appalachian trail intersects our community!

ATV Trails

Did you know that Moosehead Lake has an extensive network of well-marked ATV trails that connect Greenville to The Forks, Rockwood, and even Kokadjo? Have you ever explored these rugged backcountry routes? Along the way, you’ll find scenic lakes, towering mountains, and maybe even a moose or two! Whether you’re looking for a quick ride or an all-day adventure, the possibilities are endless. Don’t have an ATV? No worries! Have you thought about renting one locally or booking a guided tour for the best experience?

Camping

For those who love the great outdoors, camping around Moosehead Lake offers an unforgettable way to experience Maine’s wilderness. Whether you prefer a rustic backcountry setup or a more comfortable glamping experience, there are plenty of options to suit your style. We provide a unique way to stay close to nature with yurt glamping and primitive campsites —perfect for those who want to enjoy the beauty of the region without sacrificing comfort. Their yurts offer cozy accommodations, while the primitive sites provide a more traditional camping experience.

No matter where you set up camp, Greenville’s outdoor access is unmatched. Spend your days hiking, paddling, or fishing, then unwind under a star-filled sky. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or a basecamp for adventure, camping in the Moosehead Lake region is an experience you won’t want to miss!

B-52 Crash Site

One of the most unique and sobering sites to visit near Moosehead Lake is the B-52 Crash Site on Elephant Mountain. In 1963, a U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress on a low-level training mission crashed into the mountain due to turbulence, tragically taking the lives of seven crew members. Today, the wreckage remains as a memorial to those who lost their lives, with large sections of the aircraft still scattered across the rugged terrain. Accessible by snowmobile in the winter and by hiking or ATV in warmer months, the site serves as both a historical landmark and a place of reflection. Visitors can explore the wreckage, read the memorial plaque, and take in the quiet, forested surroundings that now stand as a tribute to the fallen crew.

Winter Activities

Skiing 

Did you know that Squaw Mountain, aka Big Moose Mountain Ski Area, offers some of the best winter fun in Greenville, Maine? Whether you’re an experienced skier or just looking to enjoy a day in the snow, this historic ski area provides a true northern Maine winter experience. With scenic trails, breathtaking views of Moosehead Lake, and a mix of terrain for all skill levels, it’s a must-visit spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Even if skiing isn’t your thing, the surrounding area is perfect for snowshoeing and soaking in the winter landscape. If you’re looking for a classic Maine adventure, Big Moose Mountain is a great way to embrace the season!

Snowmobiling

In the winter months, the extensive ATV trail system around Moosehead Lake transforms into a snowmobiler’s paradise. With miles of well-groomed trails connecting Greenville to The Forks, Rockwood, and Kokadjo, riders can explore Maine’s backcountry in a whole new way. The scenery is nothing short of spectacular—snow-covered forests, frozen ponds, and the possibility of spotting moose along the way make every ride an adventure. Whether you’re heading out for a quick spin or an all-day trek, the region’s interconnected trail network makes it easy to explore. If you don’t own a snowmobile, local outfitters offer rentals, and guided tours are available for those looking to experience the best routes with an expert.

Ice Fishing

When winter sets in, Moosehead Lake transforms into one of Maine’s premier ice fishing destinations. With its vast frozen waters and healthy fish populations, anglers have the chance to reel in lake trout (togue), brook trout, salmon, and cusk. Whether you’re an experienced ice fisherman or trying it for the first time, the region offers endless opportunities for a memorable day on the ice. Many visitors set up cozy ice shacks, while others enjoy the simplicity of fishing with a few traps and a thermos of hot coffee.

For those new to the sport, guided ice fishing trips are available, providing all the gear and know-how needed for a successful outing. The community atmosphere on the ice is a big part of the experience, with anglers swapping stories and celebrating their catches. If you’re looking for a classic Maine winter adventure, ice fishing on Moosehead Lake is a must-try!

When you live in such an amazing outdoor destination, navigating the woods, trails, and finding all the right things to do may seem pretty easy, but we recommend hiring guides to provide information and point you in the right direction for other cool things to do. Most importantly, guides are trained to provide unique experiences in nature, but also point out the best places to grab a drink, and of course see a moose! Let Northeast Whitewater be your guide. We offer daily services to guests and visitors looking for things to do in the Moosehead Lake Region. Located on the main route leading to town, we are your Moosehead Outdoor Adventures for all kinds of things to do and information for your getaway here.