Summer Adventures at Moosehead Lake!
Book your summer fun NOW – with Northwoods Outfitters!
Maine’s Moosehead Lake region is one of the most spectacular destinations for summer trips to Maine, offering a true Northwoods experience filled with wildlife, water adventures, and mountain views.
Whether you’re searching for the best places to visit in Maine in summer with your family or planning quick weekend trips Maine travelers love, Northwoods Outfitters offers unforgettable outdoor experiences in the heart of the Maine wilderness.
For more than 30 years, Northwoods Outfitters has guided guests into the Maine North Woods. Based in Greenville on the shores of Moosehead Lake—the largest lake in New England east of the Mississippi—our expert Registered Maine Guides lead a wide range of Maine summer adventure packages for visitors of every age and ability.
From early-morning moose sightings on quiet wilderness ponds to guided fishing, hiking, paddling, and whitewater rafting, our experiences capture everything people imagine when they plan Maine summer vacations.
Moose Tours in Maine
Our private wildlife excursions are among the most popular experiences in the Moosehead Lake region. Led by Registered Maine Guides and Naturalists with decades of experience, these tours take guests deep into prime moose habitat where sightings are common.
Tours are completely private and customized for your group.
Guests can choose:
- Backcountry wildlife tours by vehicle
- Quiet paddling trips on remote rivers or ponds
- Combination tours that include both options
Morning and evening departures run from May through November when wildlife is most active. With more than 1,000 moose sightings documented every year, our guides know exactly where to look.
These tours are ideal for families, photographers, and travelers seeking an authentic wildlife experience during their summer trips to Maine.
Guided Fishing Trips
The Moosehead Lake region is one of New England’s top freshwater fishing destinations and one of the best places to visit in Maine in summer for anglers.
Our Registered Maine Fishing Guides lead trips tailored to your experience level. Whether you’re casting a line for the first time or pursuing trophy salmon on the big lake, we provide everything you need.
All trips include:
- Rods, tackle, bait, and gear
- Water and snacks
- Expert instruction and local knowledge
Guests commonly target:
- Landlocked salmon
- Brook trout
- Lake trout
- Bass
Half-day and full-day guided trips run from May through September and are perfect additions to Maine summer vacations.
Water Adventures on Moosehead Lake
Getting out on the water is one of the best ways to experience the Moosehead Lake region. Northwoods Outfitters offers more ways to explore the water than any outfitter in the area.
Options include both guided tours and equipment rentals.
Popular activities include:
- Canoe and kayak river trips through wildlife-rich waterways
- Guided kayak tours of secluded coves and marshes
- Moosehead Lake boat cruises to Mount Kineo
- Sunset cruises on the lake
- Canoe, kayak, and paddleboard rentals
Many of these activities can be completed in just a few hours, making them perfect for travelers planning weekend trips Maine visitors often build around Moosehead Lake.
Our shuttle service also handles transportation logistics so you can simply enjoy your day on the water.
Guided UTV Tours & Backcountry Off-Road Adventures
For an exciting way to explore the Maine North Woods, join one of our guided UTV backcountry tours. These off-road adventures travel deep into the region’s extensive trail system, winding through forests, mountain ridges, and scenic overlooks few visitors ever see.
Northwoods Outfitters offers comfortable Can-Am side-by-side UTVs designed for two or four passengers, making them perfect for couples, families, and small groups looking to add a little adrenaline to their Maine summer vacations or weekend trips Maine visitors plan around Moosehead Lake.
Guided UTV tours include:
- Premium Can-Am side-by-side vehicles
- Helmets and safety gear for all riders
- Trail orientation and route guidance from experienced guides
- Access to scenic forest trails, mountain viewpoints, and remote backcountry routes
UTV season typically runs from late May through mid-November, with half-day and full-day guided tours available.
Guided Hiking in the Moosehead Lake Region
With more than 50 trails nearby, the Moosehead Lake region offers some of the best hiking terrain in New England.
Our Registered Maine Hiking Guides lead customized hikes that range from easy nature walks to challenging summit climbs with panoramic views.
Guided hikes may include:
- Mount Kineo – dramatic cliffs and a historic fire tower
- Waterfall hikes along forested rivers
- Scenic lakeshore trails
- Backcountry mountain summits
Water, snacks, and lunch are included on full-day hikes.
Hiking is one of the most rewarding ways to explore the region and a highlight of many Maine summer adventure packages.
Whitewater Rafting in Maine
For pure adrenaline, few activities match Maine’s legendary whitewater rivers.
Northwoods Outfitters coordinates rafting trips on three of the state’s most famous runs:
- Kennebec River – exciting Class III–IV rapids ideal for beginners and families
- Penobscot River – one of New England’s most thrilling Class IV–V rafting experiences
- Dead River – seasonal high-water runs for experienced rafters
All trips include transportation, safety equipment, and a post-run meal.
Whitewater rafting is one of the most exciting outdoor experiences available during summer trips to Maine, and a great centerpiece for action-packed weekend trips Maine visitors plan around the Moosehead region.
Overnight Canoe Adventures
For travelers who want a deeper wilderness experience, Northwoods Outfitters also outfits multi-day canoe trips on Maine’s iconic rivers and lakes.
Our complete outfitting services include:
- Canoes and paddling gear
- Camping equipment
- Fishing gear
- Shuttle service
- Free trip planning assistance
Popular routes include:
- West Branch of the Penobscot River – our most popular canoe trip
- Allagash Wilderness Waterway – Maine’s most famous multi-day paddle
- West Outlet of the Kennebec River
- Moosehead Lake island camping trips
These expeditions combine paddling, wildlife viewing, fishing, camping, and photography. We deliver unforgettable Maine summer adventure packages for travelers seeking a true wilderness journey.
Plan Your Summer Adventure!
Moosehead Lake and the surrounding North Woods offer one of the most authentic outdoor destinations in the Northeast.
Whether you’re planning Maine summer vacations filled with family-friendly adventures or looking for memorable weekend trips Maine travelers rave about, Northwoods Outfitters can help you build the perfect experience.
Our Maine summer adventure packages are fully customizable:
- Half-day guided trips
- Full-day adventures
- Multi-day wilderness expeditions
Visit us in Greenville and discover why Moosehead Lake remains one of the best places to visit in Maine in summer.
Summer in the Northwoods is waiting. Book your adventure today!
