Follow Route 302 north from Portland through North Windham, Raymond and Naples, watching for glimpses of Sebago Lake on your left. At Naples, you'll come to The Causeway, which divides Brandy Pond from Long Lake. Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the Songo River Queen from Naples through the ancient Songo Locks. Turn back the way you came over The Causeway and after approximately half a mile take Route 35 north. Follow the road through Harrison, past Crystal Lake, Bear Pond, Keoka Lake and through Waterford and North Waterford to Bethel, an archetypal “New England” town which is a popular hiking centre for the White Mountains. For great views of the foliage here try a kayak trip down the Androscoggin River or stretch your legs and enjoy a hike or bike ride. Trail maps are available at the Visitor Centre located at the railway station. The view of the Presidential Mountain Range from Paradise Hill in Bethel is also worth a stop but don’t forget to refuel before leaving town. Leave Bethel on Route 5 north (which is also Route 26) until you reach Newry. Alternatively take the Sunday River Road in North Bethel before reaching Newry and visit the "Artist's Bridge," Maine's most painted and photographed covered bridge, built in 1872. Then return the way you came, and continue north to Newry. From Newry, follow Routes 2 and 5 east towards Rumford, a paper mill town in a hilly district with great foliage views. In the middle of town follow Route 2 towards Mexico and then north onto Route 17 (Roxbury Road) towards Hale. This section of road can be confusing, but a good map should help you find your way. Follow Route 17 north through Frye, Roxbury, and Byron. In Byron, admire the Swift River canyon and take a river trip or pan for gold before continuing north through Houghton to Beaver Pond, where a two-mile hike through hardwood forest will take you to the cascading, 90-foot Angel Falls. Several miles north of Beaver Pond the road climbs higher and higher around Spruce Mountain to a spot where the trees fall away to reveal a breathtaking panorama below. This is one of the most dramatic scenic turnouts in the State, known as Height of Land. For a stunning photograph, pull into the stopping area for a view of mountains surrounding crystal lakes that sparkle against an autumn backdrop of dazzling reds, oranges, and yellows. Continue north (still on Route 17) to Oquossoc and Mooselookmeguntic Lake. If you’d like a better view of the lake turn left on Route 4 to Haines Landing. To continue return east on Route 4 to explore the town of Rangeley, which sits at an altitude of nearly 2000 feet, then head south on Route 4 to the turn-off for South Shore Drive at Greenvale Cove. This will take you to Rangeley Lake State Park, where you can stand on the beach and enjoy views of the surrounding mountains and Rangeley Lake. Continuing along Route 4 past Long Pond and Sandy River you’ll come across Saddleback Mountain, a popular ski-ing destination which rises to over 4000 feet. There are many mountain treks around this area – one of the most famous is the Appalachian Trail. Continue along Route 4 through Madrid and then take Route 142 past Webb Lake, Weld and Carthage. In Dixfield, turn west on Route 2 (also Route 17) and this will lead you back to Rumford. Total driving time from the Portland area to Rangeley is about four to five hours but bear in mind, you’re likely to stop several times along the way for photographs and sightseeing. Should you decide to take it easy, overnight accommodation is readily available in Bethel and Rangeley. Although in peak season, it may be best to book ahead. TRAVELJIGSAW GIVES NO WARRANTY OR GUARANTEE WHATSOEVER REGARDING THE ACCURACY, CURRENCY, RELIABILITY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE INFORMATION PROVIDED FOR THESE EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS. ANY WARRANTIES REGARDING SUCH INFORMATION WHICH MAY BE IMPLIED BY LAW, STATUTE OR OTHERWISE ARE HEREBY EXCLUDED TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW.
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