Located northwest of Portland, Westbrook and the Lakes Region offer visitors many different activities throughout the year. Summer in the Lakes Region offers many beautiful lakes and rivers to explore by boat, not to mention plenty of golf courses, public beaches, and ice cream hangouts to pass a summer’s day. Boaters and sun worshippers have a host of choices when it comes to fun in the sun. For an expanded list of actiivities be sure to check out www.sebagolakeschamber.com.
10 things to do:
1. Mountain Division Rail Trail – Starting at a parking lot on Gambo Road off River Road in Windham, the Mountain Division Rail Trail extends more than four miles from the Windham/Gorham line up to Sebago Lake in Standish. Enjoy a nearly level walk or bike ride passing picturesque fields, forest, ponds and the Presumpscot River.
2. Raymond Beach – Think every beach in the Lakes Region costs money to visit? Think again. Raymond Beach, handily located on Route 302 in Raymond, overlooks majestic Jordan Bay and offers sunbathers an easily accessible and refreshing respite on a hot day. A swimming beach and boating access are available.
3. Sunset Ridge – Enjoy all sorts of recreational possibilities at Westbrook’s fun spot, Sunset Ridge Golf Links and Westerly Winds Sports Park. Enjoy a challenging 9-hole golf course, par-3 executive course, mini-golf, batting cages, tennis courts, driving range and swimming pool. For more information, log onto www.westerlywinds.com.
4. Babb’s Bridge in Windham – Babb’s Bridge is the only covered bridge in the southern Lakes Region. Located on Covered Bridge Road off River Road, Babb’s Bridge crosses the Presumpscot River about halfway between Sebago Lake and Westbrook. The spot is off the busy main street, is easily accessible and affords photographers ample opportunity to use their skills.
5. Songo Locks – Watch a working lock system when you visit the Songo Locks in Casco. The lock is located on the Songo River adjacent to Sebago Lake State Park in Casco and is the last navigation lock in Maine. It was part of the Cumberland and Oxford Canal System built in 1830. It was one of 28 locks in the 50-mile-long waterway from Harrison at the head of Long Lake, through Sebago Lake, and on to Portland Harbor.
6. Highland Lake in Bridgton – After you’re done visiting the shops in downtown Bridgton, walk the quarter-mile to the picnic area at Highland Lake boat launch, located at the northern end of town just off Route 302. Picnic tables under tall pine trees with views of Highland Lake offer a relaxing and scenic spot to unwind after a busy day of shopping.
7. Riverbank Park – Riverbank Park in downtown Westbrook is a great place to relax and enjoy a little peace and quiet among the busy city streets of the Paper City. Feed the ducks, play Frisbee in the wide-open fields, enjoy the playground or just lay out in the sun and have a picnic lunch on a blanket. The park is located on Main Street.
8. Saccarappa Falls – Located in downtown Westbrook, Saccarappa Falls after a rainstorm can resemble a mini-Niagara Falls as the Presumpscot River swoops from the north and makes a plunging left-hand turn through downtown Westbrook. The best vantage point is from Saccarappa Park located at the intersection of Bridge and Main streets. After viewing the falls, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Riverwalk lining the river.
9. Fishing on the Presumpscot – According to anglers, some of the best brook trout fishing in the state can be experienced below the Route 35 bridge as it crosses the Presumpscot River in North Windham. Ample parking is available. All you need is your fishing license and a good rod and reel. Or, bring your waders for a better shot of landing the trout of your dreams.
10. Starboard Green Mini Golf – If you’re looking for a little mini-golfing challenge, look no further than Starboard Green Mini Golf located on Route 302 in downtown Naples. Since it’s in the middle in the tourist mecca of Naples, the course layout includes nautical themes. And if the golfing isn’t enough, a fun arcade awaits next door. For more information, call 693-6914.
Comments are no longer available on this story