QUICK TRAIL FACTS
- Preserve Size: 1,000 acres
- Trail Mileage: 2.3 miles (one way)
- Pets: yes
- Difficulty: easy, with one steepish section
- Sights: bog, lake view, stream, picnic table, interpretive panels
Okay, first off: do not try to use the lower trail that you see on some older maps of this preserve! I did it (in the summer of 2017) and am barely alive to tell the tale. It is a discontinued trail, very wet, very overgrown. Best to stick with the there-and-back trail that takes you up and over the bog to the viewpoint on Rangeley Lake.
Also, there is a stream crossing that I found difficult (I fell into the stream). If you want to avoid it, use the road bridge to cross the stream. Park at the trailhead parking lot and walk 100 feet or so west along the road and you’ll see a little trail to your right.
This trail includes interpretative panels. The view of the lake at the end of the trail is nice, and there is a picnic table. The swimming I’d say is only so-so. In total, the Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust preserve has 1,000 acres, and from the parking lot to lake, it’s about 2.3 miles, with one bit being a bit steep.
Directions: From Oquossoc Village, go south on Rt. 17 for 5 miles. Take left on South Shore Drive. Go 4 miles, and the parking area will be on the left just after the bridge.
