Out in the Boondocks

It was a purrrfect day as we left Rangely(far N-W of Maine) and headed northeast to Stratton, east to Kingfield and North Anson where we ran into a road closure, When they do road repairs up here they don't mess around. (In their defence, they only have the short summer to get things done.)

Sugarloaf Mountain a popular skiing resort was a curiosity on the way. You could see where the white ski slopes would be during the winter.

It made us feel very insecure to return 5 miles and have to take a poorly sign posted detour south through Madison before resuming north towards Jackman, a frontier town just 14 miles south of the Canadian border.

Along the way, an ordinary exterior hid a pleasant respite for drinks in Bingham. Mugs covered the walls.

Our route from Jackman took us east on 16 to Rockwood. On the way we passed the KTM rider we met in Lancaster two days ago, going the other way. I waved, but I don't think he recognised us. Everywhere we were surrounded by forests and lakes, and there were plenty signs warning us to look out for moose. We were really hoping to see one. At least we didn't hit one, either. They are bloody big and apparently either just stand in the middle of the road or make a dash out of the trees and across the rode when you least expect it.

Riding through Rockwood we found a motel on the far side of town that was apparently open for business but unstaffed and up for sale. We returned to the general store to ask where we might stay. There aren't many choices out here. You really felt as if this place was on the edge of the world. We were advised Moosehead, the next town, wouldn't have any accommodation, but that there were several places nearby with cabins for rent.

We duly arrived at one of these and found out they were attractive and charming if you wanted a complete getaway.

It had no coffee maker and no Internet access - talk about roughing it! We just had to make do. A great out of the way place but you would have to take all your basics with you unless you were willing to eat in their  restaurant - which would make your trip expensive.  The local store provided good meals but groceries were basic.  We had dinner enjoying the stunning view from our verandah, watching the Canadian Geese near the water's edge.

Float planes are everywhere here in Maine.
A walk led us to few derelict vehicles hidden in the bush.

We met two lovely sisters, Ann and Sylvia (and their dog, Ada) in the cabin next to ours. They live in the southern part of Maine and travel up here regularly for a peaceful getaway, as their husbands don't like this sort of holiday. We had quite a chat with them before getting an early night.