Rangeley was established in 1855. During its incorporation, it was primarily a cattle ranching and farming community, producing grains like wheat, oats and barley, as well as potatoes. At the turn of the 20th century, thanks to the construction of the Phillips and Rangeley Railroad, Maine became a popular seasonal resort and continues to be so to this very day.
The town itself is a proverbial "drop in the bucket". With a population of only 1,168 as of the last census, Rangeley remains relatively untouched by human hands, and that is the draw for those who seeks its refuge. Rangeley is the center of the Rangeley Lakes Region, which also consists of the neighboring villages of Oquossoc, Haines Landing and South Rangeley. It is home to Saddleback Mountain and 111 lakes and ponds. These outdoor wonders provide the perfect conduit for both summer and winter activities, since summers in Rangeley are warm and sunny, while winters are frosty and drop about 200 inches of snowfall in the area each year.
In summer, take advantage of all of the activities available on the multiple bodies of water in the region. Fishing, in particular, put Rangeley on the map, but water-lovers also participate in boating, water-skiing, windsurfing and swimming. Other popular summertime activities include hunting, wildlife watching, hiking, and mountain biking. Golfers will want to check out the renowned Mingo Springs Golf, which features a scenic course with 18 holes designed to provide play for both the novice and expert golfer.
In winter, the excitement does not wane with the foliage but, instead, takes on new life with the first snowfall. East coast skiers love the quiet seclusion and seemingly endless fresh snow of Saddleback Mountain Ski Area. Saddleback Mountain reaches a peak height of 4,120 feet and offers skiers 66 trails suited to varying degrees of difficulty. It is also home to approximately 15 miles of trails maintained for cross-country skiers, who are welcome to travel the approximately 45 miles of trails of the Rangeley Lakes Cross Country Ski Trail System. As if these activities were not enough to fill your vacation calendar, Rangeley is also a popular snowmobile center. There are 150 miles of trails for this motorized sport, not to mention a number of festivals and activities hosted annually, such as the Snodeo, which features races, food, auctions and other activities.
Big mountains and lakes and small-town hospitality await visitors to this pristine wilderness region. Whether you seek to actively engage in its wonders or sit back and admire them, Rangeley welcomes you.
