Northern Forest Canoe Trail Sections

Section 1- Richardson Lakes to Rangeley

Section Description

A trip to the Rangeley Lakes region allows paddlers to travel through one of Maine's top recreation destinations. This section of the NFCT provides access to a variety of lake paddling, traveling through some of Maine’s largest lakes with views of the Western Maine mountains throughout. This area is known for its fishing and campsites with beautiful, sometimes sandy, beaches that are great for swimming. If your group has time, in the area there are plenty of opportunities to hike and explore cool local museums. There is at least one short portage (250 yds.), and depending on the itinerary your group chooses, the opportunity to add on an additional portage and a series of rapids.

Suggested Itineraries

Since campsites in this area require reservations, it might not be possible to follow these itineraries strictly. Information on campsite reservations is below. Work with what dates you intend to travel and the campsites available to plan your trip.

These large lakes can result in high winds and large chop. Crossing the lake at the shortest point possible is recommended, as is trying to cross in the morning before the winds pick up. Due to the direction that the winds tend to blow, traveling on the west shore is also recommended.

Option 1

Option 2

Notes

Stay close to shore as much as possible and make the shortest crossing across the lake. Can also put in at the park boat launch.

Portage around Rangeley Dam (0.5 mi) or Rangeley River (1.4 mi). If choosing to portage the dam and run Rangeley river, be aware that the river can be a series of continuous Class II rapids or require pulling boats at low water.

Reserve site with Stephen Phillips Preserve.

Portage around Upper Dam (250 yards).

Reserve site with Stephen Phillips Preserve.

Reserve site with South Arm Campground.

Recommended to travel on the west shore. Make the shortest crossing possible if crossing the lake.

You can head back this day or can choose to stay at South Arm Campground.

You can stop at the Maine Forestry Museum (in Rangeley) on your way out of town. Admission required.

Map Information- NFCT Map 8 Rangeley Lakes Region, NFCT Guidebook pgs. 171- 185

Camping Information

Campsites in this area require reservations. There are 2 campsites on Mooselookmeguntic Lake’s southwest shore that do not require reservations.

Upper and Lower Richardson Lake