Flagstaff Lake, Maine: A Jewel of History and Natural Beauty

Flagstaff Lake, located in the picturesque state of Maine, is a true gem that combines a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and tons of recreational opportunities. This vast body of water, covering approximately 20 square miles, was created in the 1950s when the Long Falls Dam was constructed on the Dead River. Today, it stands as one of Maine’s largest man-made lakes, drawing visitors from all around to explore its history and enjoy its scenic wonders.

In the autumn, Flagstaff Lake in Maine, USA, is known for its stunning beauty as the leaves change colors and the landscape transforms. View in my gallery.

If you are here for the fall colors, then you will be arriving between 25 Sept and 5 October. Lisa and I visited in 2021 from 26-28 Sept and while we did see some spots of peak color, it was more spotty color to good solid color. Peak was north of the lake at this time or at higher elevations.

Historical Significance:

Factoid: Flagstaff Lake got its name after a legend that Benedict Arnold planted a flagstaff at his campsite in the area during his march to Quebec in 1775.

Before the creation of Flagstaff Lake, the area was home to several small villages with a deep-rooted history. However, the construction of the dam flooded these settlements, forever altering the landscape and displacing its residents. As a result, the lake holds the remains of these lost communities beneath its waters, providing a unique glimpse into Maine’s past.

The dam’s construction was part of an ambitious hydroelectric project, undertaken to generate power for the region. Though the lake serves as a reservoir to store water for power generation, it also became a recreational destination, attracting boaters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Towns Surrounding Flagstaff Lake:

Flagstaff Lake is surrounded by charming towns like Eustis, Stratton, Carrabassett, and Kingfield. Each town contributes to the area’s character and allure. Eustis and Stratton, located on the western shore, is a hub for outdoor adventurers, offering easy access to the lake’s wonders. Visitors can find accommodations, dining options, and gear rentals here.

Eustis Maine as seen at dawn from my drone — The road is lost in the morning fog and the fall colors in Eustis Maine. The road points to Flagstaff Lake and the Bigelow Mountain Range. View in my gallery

West of the lake lies the town of Eustis, which boasts a rich history of logging. The small community of Coplin Plantation is also nearby, providing a tranquil retreat for those seeking a peaceful lakeside experience.

Finding Flagstaff Lake and Scenic Route 27

Getting there is fairly straightforward forward and when Lisa and I drove there in 2021, we drove up from Massachusetts into New Hampshire and over to Maine on Route 2 or you can come across on Route 16. This brings you into Rangeley (one of our favorite places) and then you can continue up Route 16 (passing Quill Hill) and that will bring you into Stratton Maine on Scenic Route 27.

We stayed in Stratton and had a couple of meals at the White Wolf Inn. Very good food to be found on their menu.

We traveled up Route 27 to Coburn Gore and on 26 Sept the Chain of Ponds was nearly peak but further toward Stratton and Eustis and down toward Sugarloaf it wasn’t nearly as colorful. There is a ridge above Eustis and there we saw some beautiful views and colors. The second image of dawn was taken from this road. Here is a link to my album on Facebook with a bunch of images from this 3 day period that I took along the way.

Recreation and Activities:

Flagstaff Lake beckons outdoor enthusiasts with a smorgasbord of activities. Fishing aficionados will find themselves in paradise, as the lake teems with a variety of fish, including trout, salmon, and bass. Canoeing and kayaking take on new dimensions here, as the still waters reflect the surrounding mountains, creating a mirror-like illusion that is both captivating and surreal.

Hiking trails dot the landscape, catering to all levels of adventurers. The Bigelow Preserve, home to the towering Bigelow Mountain Range, offers challenging hikes and rewarding vistas. The Flagstaff Lake Scenic Byway (Route 27) is a delight for those seeking a leisurely drive, providing breathtaking views of the lake and its environs.

Activities at Flagstaff Lake:

Boating and Fishing: Flagstaff Lake beckons boaters with its calm waters and numerous islands to explore. Fishing enthusiasts will find an abundance of trout, salmon, bass, and other species, making it an angler’s paradise. (But I don’t see boat rentals, only guided tours on the lake)
Hiking and Camping: The region offers an array of hiking trails, catering to all levels of ability. From leisurely strolls to challenging ascents, hikers can enjoy breathtaking vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains. Camping near the lake’s shore under the starlit sky is an experience not to be missed.
Wildlife Viewing: Nature enthusiasts will delight in the diverse wildlife that calls the lake and its surroundings home. Keep an eye out for moose, deer, bald eagles, and a variety of bird species. While we didn’t see any moose, there were many hunters sitting quietly in their trucks watching for them (you should wear red or orange in the woods)
Photography and Scenic Drives: Photographers will find an endless array of captivating landscapes, especially during the fall when the foliage transforms into a stunning tapestry of colors. Scenic drives around the lake and nearby mountains provide picturesque views at every turn.

Best Scenic Places Near Flagstaff Lake:

Bigelow Preserve: This vast wilderness area offers hiking trails that lead to the summits of Bigelow Mountain and Avery Peak. The panoramic views from the top are simply breathtaking.
The Appalachian Trail: A section of the renowned Appalachian Trail passes through the region, offering hikers a chance to experience this iconic trail’s beauty.
State Route 27 Scenic Byway: This designated scenic byway takes visitors through charming towns, past serene lakes, and historic landmarks. You pick the route up in Kingman and travel past the Bigelow Range, past Flagstaff Lake, and the Chain of Ponds ending at Coburn Gore and the Canadian Border.
Grand Falls: Located on the Dead River, the Grand Falls is an impressive 40-foot waterfall, providing a captivating sight but it is for “experienced” travelers.

Traveling on the Logging Roads

I hesitate to talk too much about the logging roads that “CAN” take you around Flagstaff Lake. These are not for the faint of heart. First off the Logging trucks own these roads and they travel very fast with their loads of logs. If you stand in the middle of the road taking a picture, they will not be able to stop FOR you! When Lisa and I hit the Long Falls Dam Road, we didn’t see more than 2-4 vehicles during the whole trip and I don’t recommend a sedan. ground clearance and 4X4 are really needed. I did not use my 4X4 but ground clearance and a rough road is the order of the day. If you break down you have a 3-5 mile hike to get out to the main road.

I will say the road around the lake is very scenic but mostly because I fly a drone. As with many places in Maine, trees are everywhere and there are a few places during the 2+ hour trip where you can get nice views of the lake. But in comparison to the panoramic shot above at the top of the page of Flagstaff Lake, like this shot below.

Logging road near Eustis Maine, a rough road in early fall colors — Logging road near Eustis Maine, scenic views are limited by the trees lining the road.

Again check the Facebook line earlier in the article to see more images that show this area…

In conclusion, Flagstaff Lake, Maine, is a captivating destination that weaves history, nature, and recreational activities into a memorable tapestry. Whether you’re interested in exploring the area’s past, partaking in outdoor adventures, or simply savoring the beauty of Maine’s wilderness, Flagstaff Lake offers an experience like no other. So, pack your bags, immerse yourself in this haven of natural wonders, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Jeff Foliage Folger

Autumn is a state of mind more than a time of year – Jeff Foliage

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