Eustis & Stratton

The town of Eustis is on the State Route 27 Scenic Byway in the northeast corner of Franklin County. Five hundred-acre Flagstaff Lake and the multi-peaked Bigelow Mountain Range draw paddlers, fishermen and hikers to the region.

Two long distance recreation trails pass through Eustis. The mapped and signed Northern Forest Canoe Trail enters Flagstaff Lake from the South Branch of the Dead River and heads north on the river's main branch. The Appalachian Trail traverses the Bigelow Range, with trailheads off Route 27 in the village of Stratton. The 36,000-acre Bigelow Preserve contains all seven peaks of the mountain range; the southern shore of the lake; and offers camping, fishing and trails for snowmobiling, snowshoeing and cross country skiing. The area also features great golfing, hunting, ATV riding, camping and mountain biking.

The Dead River Area Historical Society museum, on Route 27 in Stratton, offers  exhibits showing artifacts, photographs, logging tools, furniture from native families and a complete schoolroom.

During winter months, Eustis and Stratton host skiers and snowboarders visiting nearby Sugarloaf resort – Maine's largest ski mountain. Many snowmobilers also ride to and through the area; the four-day Polar Blast festival each February is the region's largest gathering for snowmobilers.

In June, Family Fun Days welcome summer with a big parade, fireworks and lots of fun for all ages. Cathedral Pines Campground is a favorite destination for summer visitors. It is located on Flagstaff Lake and sits within the largest stand of old-growth red pine forest in the state.