Fall Foliage in Rangeley

Rangeley and Height of Land in the Fall

When it comes to fall foliage, few places match the vibrant, breathtaking beauty of Rangeley, Maine. Nestled in the western mountains near the New Hampshire border, Rangeley is one of the top destinations to view fall foliage in New England. With mirror-like lakes, winding scenic byways, and peaks bursting in crimson, orange, and gold, Rangeley offers a front-row seat to one of nature’s most spectacular shows.

Why Rangeley is a Must-Visit for Fall Foliage

  • Peak Colors: Thanks to Rangeley’s high elevation and dense forests, colors peak earlier and more vividly here than in coastal Maine.

  • Unobstructed Views: Sweeping vistas from mountaintops like Height of Land and Bald Mountain overlook endless stretches of colorful forest and shimmering lakes.

  • Pristine Wilderness: Unlike crowded tourist towns, Rangeley’s backroads, trails, and lakeside lookouts offer peaceful, uncrowded foliage experiences.

  • Ideal Timing: Early to mid-October is typically peak season with crisp air, sunny skies, and dramatic contrasts in color.

Scenic Drives & Lookouts

  • Height of Land (Route 17) - One of the most iconic fall views in Maine, if not all of New England. As you crest the hill, the entire Rangeley Lakes region spreads out below in a patchwork of fiery colors. Bring your camera. This is bucket-list-worthy.

  • Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway - A 35-mile loop along Routes 4 and 17, this byway takes you past forested hillsides, mountain ridgelines, and serene lakes, all glowing in fall color.

  • Quill Hill - Drive or hike to this lesser-known summit for a 360-degree panoramic view of western Maine’s foliage, with picnic tables and photo ops galore.

Best Fall Hikes in Rangeley

  • Bald Mountain Trail – A short, rewarding climb with an old fire tower and jaw-dropping views over Mooselookmeguntic Lake.

  • Angel Falls Trail – This easy-to-moderate trail leads to a 90-foot waterfall surrounded by colorful hardwoods.

  • Cascade Stream Gorge Trail – A quick hike with dramatic waterfalls and mossy woods bursting with color.

Where to Eat

  • Parkside & Main – A cozy downtown eatery with seasonal specials and a warm, welcoming vibe.

  • The Furbish Brew House – Great beer, great food, and outdoor seating with views of the foliage.

  • Forks in the Air Mountain Bistro – Upscale, creative cuisine perfect for a cozy fall dinner.

Where to Stay for Peak Foliage

  • Rangeley Inn – A historic inn in the heart of town, walking distance to shops and eateries.

  • Saddleback Lodge – Perfect for combining leaf-peeping with hiking and mountain views.

  • Lakeside cabins – Book early for spots on Rangeley or Mooselookmeguntic Lake for a quiet, colorful escape.

Outdoor Activities Surrounded by Color

  • Canoe or kayak on Rangeley Lake – Glide across calm, reflective waters framed by foliage.

  • Fly fishing – October is a prime time to cast for brook trout and landlocked salmon in crisp mountain streams.

  • Moose watching – Fall is rutting season; take a drive at dusk and keep your eyes peeled near wetlands and logging roads.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Fall Trip

  • Arrive early October for peak color.

  • Book lodging well in advance — fall is Rangeley’s second-highest tourism season.

  • Layer up — mornings can be chilly, even when days are sunny.

  • Don’t miss a sunrise or sunset — the low-angle light makes the leaves glow.

Rangeley in the fall is more than a destination. It's a full-sensory experience. The crunch of leaves underfoot, the scent of wood smoke in the air, and the vibrant hues of the forest all combine into a memory you'll never forget.

Ready to plan your perfect Rangeley foliage getaway?
Visit RangeleyMaine.com or MaineFoliage.com for up-to-date foliage reports, lodging options, and trail maps.