Bethel: Great outdoor fun awaits all year long

Editor’s Note: Get There from Here: You’ve heard it a million times already. Gas is expensive, which makes everything else expensive. But you don’t have to forgo a vacation. There are plenty of great destinations within driving distance in Maine and its immediate neighbors in New England and Canada. You’ll feel it immediately at the pump, but at least it’s not a plane. And staying close to the region, you keep your money here.

WHY THERE? Nestled in western Maine on the New Hampshire border, Bethel might be thought of as merely a ski town that houses Sunday River Ski Resort. On the contrary, it’s a gorgeous part of Maine that is surrounded by mountains and provides plenty to do all year long. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, golfer, or just want to get away from it all for a weekend or more, Bethel is a great place to go.

GET THERE: Find Route 2 and follow it west. If you hit New Hampshire, you’ve gone too far. Seriously, from northern, central and eastern Maine, head to Newport and follow Route 2 if you want a scenic route. For a speedier trip, take Interstate 95 south and pick an exit north of Lewiston-Auburn. You can get there easily through Waterville, Augusta or Gray.

STAY THERE: From campgrounds, to hotels, to bed-and-breakfast inns or private homes and condos, Bethel has a plethora of accommodations for every size wallet. For a wilderness experience, try one of the five White Mountain National Forest campgrounds in the area. For something a little more modern, check out the River View Resort or the Sudbury Inn. Most are within minutes of numerous indoor and outdoor activities, and some feature on-site pools, miniature golf, and hiking trails.

EAT THERE: You won’t find much fast food here, but hang on to your taste buds because there are plenty of vittles to keep you going.

A local favorite, Roosters Roadhouse Restaurant and Pub is located just outside the village and has a menu filled with New England favorites including seafood, steaks, salads and pasta. The pub upstairs offers a full bar and casual atmosphere for kicking back.

EVENINGS THERE: Local music is a proud part of the Bethel scene. At 4 p.m. this Sunday the Bethel Bandstand Concert Series will feature Lola Lee and the Country Bandits at the Bethel Village Common. It’s free, but don’t forget to bring your own seat. There’s also the Sud’s Pub at the Sudbury Inn and the Moose’s Tale and Ale at the Sunday River Brewing Co. for a cold one and some fun.

KIDS THERE: The best part about Bethel in the summer – the outdoors. Bring the kids to the Big Adventure Center for laser tag, rock climbing, water slides, miniature golf and more. Take them hiking along the Appalachian Trail, or visit nearby Grafton Notch State Park and Step Falls for a picnic and wilderness adventure.

WIN THERE: Visit the Bethel Chamber of Commerce Web site for a chance to win a free two-night stay at one of the area’s numerous lodging facilities. What could be better than a partially free minivacation?

REMEMBER BEFORE YOU’RE THERE: Don’t forget the bug dope if you’re going to be camping or hiking. Just like in the rest of the state, the mosquitoes can be vicious if you’re not prepared.

INFORMATION THERE: Go to www.bethelmaine.com to check out the Chamber of Commerce for loads of information on promotions, reservations and activities. You can also visit them once you arrive at 8 Station Place or give them a call at 824-2282. Sunday River also offers a helpful Web site at www.sundayriver.com. From there, you can get to the summer activities page, and the Sunday River Golf Club Page to take an interactive tour of the course.

adolloff@bangordailynews.net

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