The Bethel Pathway is an easy trail that is 1.7 miles one way. There is a playground and skate park at the main Bethel Pathway parking lot.
The Bethel Inn has its own golf course. You don't even need to get in your car to spend part of the day on the course. Guests staying at the hotel get 25% off golf, make sure you mention the Ouellette/Theriault wedding.
A “hidden gem”, The Bethel Inn's Lake House is just 3 miles from The Inn on Songo Pond. This rustic retreat offers a beach, deck, lake swimming, kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes for all guests of the Inn.
Buck's Ledge has been one of our favorite trails in the past 5-10 years. The trail is not very long, but there are great views of North and South Ponds. Highly recommend if you don't have a lot of time, but want a hike with great views. Located about 15 minutes from The Inn.
Named one of the best swimming holes in New England, Frenchman's Hole has crystal clear water and rocks you can jump off of. On the way to the hole, there's a beautiful view of Sunday River.
This was the spot growing up,,,where we could go to the movies for $4. It has since been purchased and kept alive. A true Bethel staple!
Grafton Notch is home to many trails from beginner/moderate to advanced. If you're looking for an easier walk/hike try Step Falls or Screw Auger Falls. If you're looking for a moderate/hard hike, Table Rock is a favorite or you could really go for a challenge with Old Speck.
There are two Maine Line Products locations. One in downtown Bethel, and one down route 26 at 297 N Main St, Greenwood, ME 04255. They have the cozy sweatshirts with the best Maine sayings (Ayuh bub!), Don't forget to get a free sample of fresh fudge!
If you are looking for something to do, River Lanes is a recent addition to the Bethel area.
This bridge, built in 1872, is named the Artist's Bridge because of its reputation as being the most photographed and painted of the venerable covered bridges in Maine.
Sunday River's Golf Course is located about 15 minutes from The Bethel Inn.
Sunday River has scenic lift/gondola rides, ziplining, disc golf, and a golf course. Beautiful any time of year.
Fine dining in Bethel. Enjoy fresh seafood or a craft cocktail.
Great burgers and even better salt and vinegar hand cut fries.
Our favorite restaurant to go to after skiing. The best sushi and Korean in Bethel, and not because it's the only sushi and Korean place in Bethel. Recognized by the Portland Press Herald for its delicious food.
Located on Route 2 between Bethel & Sunday River Road , in a renovated farm, the Good Food store specializes in gourmet and organic foods, Maine-made products, small brewery and imported beers, the best wine selection in Bethel, local products, and gifts.
A food truck turned restaurant, Le Mu Eats offers Asian-American comfort food. They have a well-known Sunday Brunch, and Southeast Asian favorites. Le Mu is a new Bethel favorite.
We like to stop at The Local Hub on our way home from skiing. They have great sandwiches (they make their own bread), quesadillas, baked goods and coffees. I would order ahead, sometimes they can get pretty backed up.
A not-so-hidden secret in the Bethel area is the Puzzle Mountain Bakery. They have a stand at the side of the road where they sell delicious pies and "Maine's Snack" the whoopie pie. They have been featured on News Center Maine as they go by the "honor system". Not your average bakery on the side of the road.
Sud's Pub- a classic Bethel watering hole. Take the steps down to the pub in the basement and you'll enjoy some brews with locals and tourists alike.
The Oxford Casino is located on Route 26 on the way up to Bethel. If you need a break in your drive, this is about halfway between Portland and Bethel.
A Portland and Kittery Brewery that has recently found roots in Newry. Beautiful views looking out to Sunday River. Huge deck.
The Oxbow Beer Garden is a great spot for some pizza and a beer. The restaurant specializes in wood-fired, naturally-leavened pizza as well as salads and seasonal dishes. The bar has an extensive selection of Oxbow beers as well as house-made sodas, spirits, cider and wine.
Steam Mill Brewing recently moved to their new, larger location on the access road to Sunday River. This is less than 10 minutes from the Bethel Inn.
The Sunday River Brewing Company is a great restaurant for groups for a beer or a meal.