Snow is Here!

The Sterling Inn sits at the heart of Maine’s outdoor adventure region. From world-class whitewater rafting to stunning waterfalls, scenic byways to the Appalachian Trail, there’s something for every explorer.

Moxie Falls
Must See

Moxie Falls

One of Maine’s highest waterfalls with a stunning 90-foot vertical drop. An easy 2-mile round-trip hike through beautiful woods leads to multiple viewing platforms overlooking this spectacular cascade.

  • Distance from Inn: 10 minutes (2.3 miles up Lake Moxie Road)
  • Difficulty: Easy – great for all ages and families
  • Best Time: Spring for high water, Fall for foliage
  • Pro Tip: Swimming holes above and below the falls

Trail Details →

Scenic Drive

Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway

The Sterling Inn sits directly on this historic 78-mile route, one of only 125 National Scenic Byways in the country. Route 201 follows ancient Abenaki trading paths and the route Benedict Arnold took during the Revolutionary War.

  • Route: Solon to Canadian Border
  • Highlights: Kennebec River views, Wyman Lake, mountain vistas
  • Fall Foliage: Peak typically early-mid October
  • History: Interpretive panels throughout the route

Plan Your Drive →

Old Canada Road Scenic Byway

The Appalachian Trail

Caratunk is home to the only manned water crossing on the entire 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail. The Kennebec River ferry operates seasonally, carrying hikers safely across the swift-moving river.

2,190

Miles of Trail

Only

Manned Ferry Crossing

281

Miles in Maine

Learn About the AT →

Whitewater Rafting

The Forks is known as the “Whitewater Capital of Maine” where the Kennebec and Dead Rivers meet. Class II-IV rapids, stunning gorge scenery, and guaranteed water flow from May through October.

Northern Outdoors

Maine’s original rafting outfitter since 1976. Full resort with brewery, pool, and lodging. Kennebec and Dead River trips.

northernoutdoors.com →

Three Rivers Whitewater

Kennebec and Dead River adventures with riverside lodging at The Forks Fun Resort. Great for families and groups.

threeriverswhitewater.com →

Crab Apple Whitewater

Family-owned outfitter with the shortest bus ride to the river. Known for excellent guides and riverside cookouts.

crabapplewhitewater.com →

Northeast Whitewater

Moosehead Lake-based outfitter offering Kennebec trips plus moose watching tours and wilderness adventures.

northeastwhitewater.com →

Adventure Bound

Maine’s only youth-focused rafting outfitter. Perfect for scouts, school groups, and families with kids.

adv-bound.com →

North Country Rivers

60-acre Bingham resort with Kennebec, Penobscot, and Dead River trips plus ATV tours and camping.

northcountryrivers.com →

More Hiking Trails

Pleasant Pond Mountain

Moderate climb with rewarding 360° views from the summit. Part of the Appalachian Trail, accessible from Caratunk.

Distance: ~4 miles round trip

Forks Area Scenic Trail

4-mile trail along the Kennebec River. Great for hiking, biking, and dog walking. Some sections ADA-compliant.

Difficulty: Easy, family-friendly

Mosquito Mountain

Steep climb rewarded with 360° views including Indian Pond. Perfect for sunset watching from summit ledges.

Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Cold Stream Falls

Beautiful waterfall at the end of a 1.2-mile trail near West Forks. Known for unique ice formations in winter.

Distance: 2.4 miles round trip

Year-Round Activities

Fishing

World-class fly fishing on the Kennebec. Native brook trout in mountain ponds.

Moose Watching

Prime moose territory. Best sightings at dawn and dusk along forest roads.

Stargazing

Zero light pollution. The Milky Way is visible to the naked eye on clear nights.

ATV/UTV Riding

Thousands of miles of trails through the Maine woods.

Kayaking & Canoeing

Calm water paddling on Pleasant Pond, Wyman Lake, and the lower Kennebec.

Swimming

Pleasant Pond offers clear, cool water and peaceful surroundings.

Hunting

Deer, moose, bear, and bird hunting. Guide services available locally.

Snowmobiling

Direct ITS trail access. 100+ inches of snow annually. Learn more →

Nearby Dining

Kennebec River Brewery

West Forks · (207) 663-4466

Craft beer and hearty pub fare at Northern Outdoors. Named one of America’s coolest breweries by Travel + Leisure.

Inn By The River

The Forks

Riverside pub with casual dining. Great spot after a day on the river.

Hawk’s Nest Restaurant

West Forks

Local favorite for comfort food and friendly atmosphere.

We offer free shuttle to Kennebec River Pub for our guests!

Ready to Explore?

Book your stay and start your Maine adventure

(207) 672-3333

Email: info@mainesterlinginn.com

1041 U.S. Route 201, Caratunk, Maine 04925