Summer Paddling Adventure in Machias, ME

Start the weekend right by fueling up on some coffee and a hearty breakfast at The Public House, part of West Branch Farms. High quality breakfast classics such as Eggs Benedict, Breakfast Burritos, Breakfast Sandwiches, and Pancakes will set you off on the right foot!

Next, stock up for the day with a light lunch at Machias River General store. Local, artisan foods can be found at this quaint shop, along with local souvenirs.

Enjoy an afternoon freshwater paddling adventure on Rocky Lake from the South Bay Access Entrance, which can be found just off of Diamond Match Road. Rent your canoes in town from Sunrise Canoe & Kayak and they'll arrange to have your boat ready to go at the launch site. Enjoy a lovely afternoon paddling around the lake and indulging in your picnic lunch.

After an afternoon on the lake, visit the Crows Nest Shops for a sweet treat and warm beverage accompaniment. Their peanut butter whoopie pie is not to be missed.

After your snack, take a leisurely stroll around the gorgeous Bad Little Falls Park.

End your stroll around Bad Little Falls Park at The French Cellar, an adorable wine and cheese shop in the center of Machais.

Continue your exploration of Machais at the Middle River Park via the gorgeous Sunrise Trail.

End the night by indulging in a phenomenal dinner at Helen's, a spot popular with tourists and locals alike for its delicious local seafood and its homemade pies. Don't pass up the strawberry-rhubarb pie a la mode here after dinner!

Stop by Hannahford's grocery store in the morning to stock up on food and supplies for an overnight camping trip.

Gear up for another day of paddling at Roque Bluffs State Park! A perfect day of exploring this park will take you to the Libby Island Lighthouse and back to Ram's Island, where you can camp out for the night. The whole paddle should be just under 7 miles if you include a stop at Libby Island Lighthouse.

Iconic stop during your day of paddling!

Libby Island Lighthouse marks the mouth of Machias Bay, Maine. The light station was established in 1817 and is an active aid to navigation; the present granite tower was built in 1823 and improved in 1848.

Break out your camping gear at set up for a night on the gorgeous, uninhabited Ram Island.

It's a new day after camping overnight on Ram Island. Pack up and head back out onto the water towards Machais State Park, but without missing a stop at Jasper Beach on the way first.

Arrive at Machais State Park and explore the area a bit before disembarking from your canoe or kayak at Machaisport.

Built in 1810, the Gates House is home to the Machiasport Historical Society. The museum contains an extensive collection of old photographs, period furniture, housewares and other memorabilia. There is also a genealogy library. After checking out this cultural gem, take a shuttle back to Roque Bluffs.