Need a charming mountain town escape in Western Maine? Head to Bethel! Nestled near the White Mountains and surrounded by forested peaks, Bethel is a four-season destination offering skiing, hiking, small-town charm, and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, enjoying fall foliage, or relaxing by the river, Bethel is pure New England beauty.
Bethel, ME Highlights:
- Ski or ride at Sunday River Resort: One of Maine’s top ski destinations with 135 trails, 8 peaks, and year-round events.
- Walk the Bethel Pathway: Scenic paved trail following the Androscoggin River, ideal for biking, walking, and nature spotting.
- Visit the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum: Explore rare gems, meteorites, and local geological wonders in a modern downtown museum.
- Explore Grafton Notch State Park: Hike to waterfalls, explore rugged trails, and take in breathtaking mountain views.
- Stroll the historic village center: Browse local shops, cozy cafés, and classic New England architecture.
Best Time to Visit Bethel, ME
The best time to visit Bethel depends on your interests. Winter (December to March) is ideal for skiing and snowshoeing. Fall (September to October) brings brilliant foliage and hiking weather. Spring and summer (May to August) are perfect for kayaking, mountain biking, and festival season.
How to Get to Bethel, ME
- If you are traveling by car: Bethel is located on U.S. Route 2, about 1.5 hours northwest of Portland and 3 hours from Boston.
- By Air: Portland International Jetport (PWM) is the nearest major airport, with car rentals available for the scenic drive to Bethel.
- By Train/Bus: Amtrak and Concord Coach Lines serve Portland; from there, local transport or car rental is recommended.
Where to Stay in Bethel, ME
- The Bethel Inn Resort – Historic full-service resort with golf, spa, on-site dining, and classic New England charm.
- Holidae House Bed & Breakfast – Victorian-era inn with cozy rooms, gourmet breakfasts, and warm hospitality downtown.
- Sunday River Grand Summit Hotel – Ski-in/ski-out hotel at the base of the slopes with a pool, hot tub, and mountain views.
Best Things to Do in Bethel, ME
⮕ Sunday River Ski Resort
Enjoy exciting winter activities and savor breathtaking mountain views for an unforgettable trip.
The Sunday River Ski Resort is considered by many to be the place to go in the Bethel area in Maine for winter sports. The resort offers opportunities for snowboarding and skiing throughout the entire year, along with a number of other winter activities. Guests can hit the slopes on their own or take a lesson at the Sunday River Ski Resort, which offers a good ski school for kids. Along with the year-round winter activities thanks to the resort’s snow making facilities, visitors will also find summer activities as well, such as rock climbing, ziplines, hiking, and biking.
15 S Ridge Rd, Newry, ME 04261, Phone: 800-543-2754
⮕ Grafton Notch State Park
Explore scenic trails and admire stunning natural sights in this peaceful, affordable park.
Grafton Notch State Park is a beautiful parkland spread across a vast amount of land, providing visitors with outdoor recreation opportunities in abundance, particularly backcountry hiking along part of the Appalachian Trail. Day hikes in the park are well signposted, including the Old Speck summit and the Table Rock Trail. These shorter walks guide hikers to gorges and impressive waterfalls. Longer hikes can take a couple a days, such as the Grafton Loop Trail, and offer more chances to see spectacular natural scenery and wildlife. During the winter months, snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers visit Grafton Notch State Park.
1941 Bear River Rd, Newry, ME 04261, Phone: 207-824-2912
Recommended Activities for Families
⮕ Sunday River Covered Bridge
Visit this historic bridge and walk along its charming structure for a picturesque weekend.
The Sunday River Covered Bridge is a historic bridge known by locals as the Artists Bridge. Built back in the year 1872, the covered bridge is one of the last surviving covered bridges from the nineteenth century in Maine and was added in 1970 to the National Register of Historic Places. The bridge is located adjacent to the Sunday River Road crossing over the Sunday River, northeast of Bethel’s Sunday River Ski Resort. Open today to pedestrian traffic, the Sunday River Bridge is approximately twenty feet wide and one hundred feet long, with a height totaling twenty-two feet.
Bethel, ME
⮕ Maine Mineral and Gem Museum
Discover unusual mineral specimens and admire stunning gems for a unique, educational experience.
A good place to spend an hour or two in the town of Bethel, the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum is home to an excellent collection of the state’s geological history, featuring exhibits including an array of rocks and minerals from the local area, as well as “extra-terrestrial rocks.” The Perham Collection, however, is perhaps the most famous of the permanent exhibits. This collection of rocks have been viewed by the public for generations, originally located at a local mineral store that was around for ninety years. Pieces at the Maine Mineral and Gem Museum vary in structure and size.
99 Main St, Bethel, ME 04217, Phone: 207-824-3036
⮕ Elements Art Gallery
Look at captivating artwork and enjoy the creative atmosphere in this local gallery.
The Elements Art Gallery is housed inside of a renovated cattle barn dating back to the 1800’s. This art gallery, as well as store, was originally opened as a way for the towner to showcase her artworks, as well as an outlet for her artistic development. Over time, the Elements Art Gallery has expanded and is now home to works of art and other creations by more than fifty crafts masters and artists from across the local area. Other items include those offered by Community Sports, Little Bits Children’s Consignment, Slope side Rentals, and Bethel Toys and Trendz.
162 Main St, Bethel, ME 04217, Phone: 207-357-0189
⮕ Steam Mill Brewing
Savor fresh brews and relax in a laid-back brewery, perfect for a quick weekend trip.
Like many other craft breweries all over America, Steam Mill Brewing is the result of a long-time passion for home brewing and a determination to create perfect small-batch craft beers. Steam Mill Brewing opened to the public in 2018 and today you can choose from a range of palate-pleasing brews on tap. These include a Belgian-style wheat beer, pale ale, red ale, several IPA’s, a chocolaty porter, lagers and a Czech-style pilsner. They also serve some delicious food to enjoy alongside your beer, and cocktails for non-beer drinkers. On Sunday they offer their popular Sunday Brunch. Steam Mill Brewing is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Steam Mill Brewing, 96 Sunday River, Bethel, ME 04217, P 207 824 1149
Where to Eat in Bethel, ME
- 22 Broad Street – Cozy Italian eatery inside The Bethel Inn serving pasta, seafood, and craft cocktails.
- Butcher Burger Bethel – Laid-back spot known for smash burgers, lobster rolls, and Maine beer.
- Le Mu Eats – Unique blend of Laotian and Southern comfort food in a casual café setting.
If you are interested in local events:
- Bethel Harvestfest & Chowdah Cookoff (September) – Celebrate fall with arts, crafts, live music, and hearty bowls of chowder.
- New England Forest Rally (July) – Exciting motorsports event drawing rally fans from across the region.
- Christmas in Bethel (December) – Tree lighting, horse-drawn sleigh rides, and holiday magic in the village center.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Bethel, Maine:
- Rumford (30 min) – Visit Rumford Falls, the tallest waterfall east of Niagara, and stroll the downtown riverfront.
- Newry (10–15 min) – Home to Sunday River Resort, scenic drives, and access to hiking in the Mahoosuc Range.
- Evans Notch (25–30 min) – Remote mountain pass with gorgeous drives and uncrowded trailheads into the White Mountains.
- Gilead (20–25 min) – Quiet village offering access to the Wild River and a peaceful slice of rural Maine.
- Step Falls Preserve (25 min) – Family-friendly hike to cascading natural pools and mountain views.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Why is Bethel, Maine called the "Jewel of Oxford County"?
- The town of Bethel in Maine is commonly called the “jewel of Oxford County” due to its beautiful location in the mountains.
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What kind of experience does Bethel offer visitors?
- It’s a scenic and tranquil place perfect for a peaceful getaway or exciting outdoor adventures.
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What is the history of Bethel, Maine?
- Originally a logging and farming settlement, the town has evolved into a popular tourist spot known for its recreational activities.
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What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy in Bethel?
- Bethel is perfect for hiking, kayaking, and skiing, offering a range of outdoor adventures.
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Does Bethel offer more than outdoor attractions?
- Yes! In addition to nature, visitors can enjoy a walkable and charming downtown.
- Bethel also features art galleries, unique museums, and delicious food options.
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