Bethel MaineBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Bethel, Maine.
1. Angevine Park Swim Hole
POPULAR SWIMMING HOLE
Angevine Park Swim Hole is a beloved local swimming spot offering refreshing water and a family-friendly riverside atmosphere. The park provides easy access to the Androscoggin River, making it a great spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying sunny days. Visitors often praise its convenient location and peaceful natural surroundings.
2. Frenchman's Hole
SCENIC WATERFALL POOL
Frenchman's Hole is a picturesque swimming hole nestled beneath a small waterfall on the Bull Branch River. The location is popular for its crystal-clear water, rocky cliffs, and opportunities for both swimming and cliff-jumping. Its tranquil setting in the forest makes it a classic Maine summer escape for locals and visitors alike.
3. Screw Auger Falls
WATERFALLS AND POOLS
Screw Auger Falls is one of Maine's most popular waterfalls, located in Grafton Notch State Park. The 25-foot cascade plunges into a shallow pool along the Bear River, offering a beautiful spot for wading and cooling off. Families often enjoy the short hike to the falls and the scenic picnic areas nearby.
4. Step Falls Preserve
MOUNTAIN STREAM CASCADES
Step Falls Preserve features a spectacular series of long, gently cascading waterfalls along Wight Brook. The granite slabs and sunny pools are inviting for hikers and swimmers, especially in spring when water flow is highest. Later in summer, the stream becomes a tranquil area for relaxing and taking in the natural beauty.
5. Mother Walker Falls
SECLUDED WATERFALL SPOT
Mother Walker Falls, located in Grafton Notch State Park, offers visitors a charming and quiet waterfall experience. The falls flow over layered rock formations into the Bear River, creating shallow pools for wading and relaxation. Its accessibility and scenic location make it a peaceful stop on the park's waterfall trail.
6. Bethel Outdoor Adventure
RIVERFRONT RECREATION HUB
Bethel Outdoor Adventure provides easy access to kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the Androscoggin River. The outfitter is popular for guided trips, equipment rentals, and its convenient waterfront location. It serves as a launching point for families and groups seeking fun on the water in a picturesque setting.
7. Androscoggin River
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
The Androscoggin River winds through Bethel, offering scenic spots for swimming, fishing, paddling, and tubing. Various parks and access points along the river invite visitors to relax on its banks or explore the gentle currents. The river's forested surroundings and wildlife create a peaceful atmosphere for outdoor activities.
8. Rumford Falls
DRAMATIC RIVER WATERFALLS
Rumford Falls stands as one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Rockies, cascading along the Androscoggin River. The site features multiple drops and dramatic scenery, making it a favorite for photography and sightseeing. Visitors often enjoy walking along the riverside paths and watching the water's powerful flow.
9. Lake Christopher (Bryant Pond)
LAKESIDE BEACH RETREAT
Lake Christopher, also known as Bryant Pond, offers a sandy beach area and clear waters for swimming and boating. The lake is surrounded by hills and forest, providing a peaceful backdrop for picnics, sunbathing, and fishing. Its public access and amenities make it a popular lakeside getaway in the Bethel region.
10. Keewaydin Lake
TRANQUIL LAKESIDE ESCAPE
Keewaydin Lake features a quiet, tree-lined shoreline with a small public beach and swimming area. The lake is ideal for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, with mountain views enhancing its serene atmosphere. Its calm waters and rustic scenery attract visitors seeking a relaxing day by the lake.