Your Fall 2025 Visitors Guide for Bethel & Sunday River
Many people think autumn is “shoulder season” in the mountains of the Sunday River region, but few realize it's actually one of the most magical seasons and best times to visit. Between local hikes, Fall festivals and events, great local restaurants and hidden gems, there is something for everyone to enjoy this time of year.
We’ve compiled an updated list of our favorite fall activities in the Sunday River and Bethel area, complete with links and sources for more info or booking.
On top of the long list of activities, it’s nice to take advantage of more openings in lodging. It’s never too early to start planning and book your stay with us at one of our many amazing properties at Visit Sunday River!
Covered bridge in Newry, ME. Photo by Kirk Erickson.
Festivals & Fall Events
Mahoosuc Arts & Agriculture Tour – Early September
A self-guided tour of local farms and artist studios, with demos and tastings—great for discovering the creative side of the region. (sundayriverliving.com)Bethel Harvestfest – Saturday, September 20, 2025
Celebrate autumn with crafts, apple pie contests, live music, food vendors, a classic car show, and a Hancock Lumber mill tour. (The Bethel Resort & Suites, bethelharvestfest.com)River Fest (at Sunday River)
A fall-long celebration with themed weekends from mid-September through early October, including Maine Brew Fest, Flannel Fest, and Fall Fest. (Sunday River, sundayriverliving.com)Maine Brew Fest – September 21–22
Sample craft beers and ciders from over 30 Maine breweries, enjoy live music and scenic mountain views. (sundayriverliving.com)Homegrown Food Festival – Sunday, September 28
Experience farm-fresh cooking demos, wild food tastings, apple cider-making, kid-friendly workshops, and explore the Habitat For All Garden at Valentine Farm. (mahoosuc.org)Flannel Fest – September 28–29
Embrace all things flannel with food, music, games, and fall flair. (sundayriverliving.com)Ruff Mountain – October 5–6
A pet-friendly weekend full of dog-centric activities, treats, and fun for owners and pups. (sundayriverliving.com)Maine craft weekend — Oct 4&5
Puzzle Mountain Glassworks will be opening their studio to see their work and process of stained glass artworks. (mainecraftweekend.org)Fall Fest & Competitions – October 11–12
A festive weekend at South Ridge: arts & crafts fair, wife-carrying contest, live music, cornhole competitions, and general merriment. (Sunday River)
Photos courtesy of SundayRiver.com
Local & Educational Attractions
Maine Mineral and Gem Museum
Explore geology and astronomy with exhibits featuring lunar and Martian meteorites—one of the world’s largest collections. For more info: https://mainemineralmuseum.org/Museums of the Bethel Historical Society & Dr. Moses Mason House
Dive into local history through historic architecture and curated exhibits in the heart of Bethel. For more info: https://bethelhistorical.org/Explore Broad Street Historic District
Walk through Bethel’s core to admire architectural gems, historic homes, and the town common. For more info: https://www.mainetrailfinder.com/trails/trail/bethel-village-history-walkArt & Gem Activities
Visit local galleries like Elements Art Gallery or try hands-on gem mining at Dig Maine Gems. More info: https://www.elementsartgallerymaine.com/index.html and https://www.digmainegems.com/
For more insight and an updated list of events on these attractions, you can check the Bethel Chamber of Commerce.
Photos courtesy of Puzzle Mountain Glassworks, Bethel Chamber of Commerce and Maine Mineral Museum.
Scenic & Outdoor Adventures
Scenic Lift Rides (Chondola) at Sunday River
Glide above the vibrant autumn foliage aboard the Chondola up to North Peak. Enjoy panoramic views, a snack at the summit, or hike back down. It’s kid- and pet-friendly. For tickets and more info: Sunday RiverBook a tour with Bethel Adventures. Bethel Adventures offers custom adventure tours, this time of year is perfect for a guided fall hike or mountain bike ride. All VSR guests receive a special discount! More info: betheladventuretours.com
Hiking & Nature Trails
Glassface Ledges: A family-friendly 1.6-mile roundtrip trail east of Sunday River with a stunning overlook.
Table Rock & Baldpate: A 2.4-mile roundtrip hike in Grafton Notch State Park for sweeping mountain views
East Royce Mountain: A short but steep trail in Evans Notch State Park with rewarding summit vistas. (Sunday River)
Waterfalls & Forest Walks
Valentine Farm: A peaceful 150-acre sanctuary with accessible trails through woods and meadows. (Sunday River)
Step Falls Preserve, Screw Auger Falls, Frenchman’s Hole, Mother Walker Falls: Ideal spots for quiet reflection amid fall colors. (The University of Maine)
Mountain Biking
Mt. Abram Bike Park: Offers lift-assisted trails through fall foliage with options from beginner to expert. For more info: https://www.mtabram.com
Barker Mountain and other local networks: Great for families and thrill-seekers alike. (The Bethel Resort & Suites,The University of Maine)
Photos by Kirk Erickson, and Mt Abram Bike Park.
Food, Relaxation & Local Eats
Local Breweries & Eateries
You can find some of our favorites mentioned before in our Dining Guide. Steam Mill Brewing; local eateries like Mountain Social, Butcher Burger, The Elizabeth and Le Mu Eats offer delicious regional fare.
Resort Dining & Après Options
Enjoy cozy meals at The Clubhouse, CAMP, Sunny’s, or grab brunch atop North Peak. (Sunday River, Visit Sunday River)Jordan Spa at Sunday River
Treat yourself to hot-stone therapy, facials, or body treatments—perfect for unwinding after a day outdoors. (Sunday River)
Photos by Kirk Erickson at Mountain Social, and courtesy of Lemu Eats and Butcher Burger.
It’s hard to believe Fall is practically here and many of these events are right around the corner.