Ultimate Travel Guide to Sunday River Ski Resort and Bethel, Maine
Your year-round adventure starts here!
Welcome to Sunday River Ski Resort and the charming town of Bethel, Maine—your gateway to adventure in every season. Whether you’re carving fresh powder in winter, hiking scenic trails in summer, or soaking up the fiery foliage of fall, this four-season destination offers something for everyone. This guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect getaway, from how to get here and where to stay to can’t-miss activities and insider tips.
How to Get to Sunday River
By Air: Portland International Jetport (1.5 hours); Boston Logan International Airport (3 hours).
By Car: From Boston: 3 hours north via I-95 and US-2; From New York City: About 6 hours.
Local Transportation: Car rentals available at airports.
Best Times to Visit
Winter (November – April): Prime skiing and snowboarding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Summer (June – August): Hiking, mountain biking, and golfing; family adventures and water sports.
Fall (September – October): Leaf-peeping and photography; scenic drives.
Spring (April – May): Great lodging deals and quiet trails.
Where to Stay
Vacation Rentals (Recommended): Slopeside convenience, pet-friendly options, luxury rentals with hot tubs, and family/group lodging.
Hotels & Inns: Bethel Inn Resort; Jordan Hotel at Sunday River.
Pro Tip: Book direct with local vacation rental companies like Visit Sunday River Vacation Rentals for the best rates and service.
Things to Do in Winter
Skiing & Snowboarding: 135 trails across 8 mountain peaks.
Snowshoeing & Nordic Skiing: Trails at Bethel Village Trails and Carter’s XC Ski.
Après-Ski & Nightlife: Foggy Goggle and Matterhorn Ski Bar.
Things to Do in Summer & Fall
Hiking: Step Falls, Grafton Notch State Park, and Puzzle Mountain.
Mountain Biking: Mount Abram Bike Park.
Cross-Country Biking: Bethel Village Trails offers scenic and beginner-friendly options.
Golf: Sunday River Golf Club.
ATV Adventures: Nearby trails and rentals.
Fall Foliage Drives: Evans Notch and the Maine Scenic Byway.
Family & Kid-Friendly Activities
River Lanes: Bowling, arcade, and billiards.
Moose spotting and wildlife tours.
Family-friendly hiking trails: Artists’ Covered Bridge, Maggie’s Nature Park
Seasonal Events & Festivals
Christmas & New Year’s: On-mountain celebrations.
Fall Harvestfest: Family fun and local food.
Dining
On-Mountain Dining: Camp at Grand Summit Hotel; Foggy Goggle.
In Town (Bethel): Mountain Social; The Millbrook Tavern & Grille; Le Mu Eats.
Brew Pubs: Sunday River Brewing Company; Steam Mill Brewing.
Tips for Planning Your Trip
Book Early: Especially for holiday weeks and peak foliage season.
Pack Smart: Layers for winter, hiking gear for summer/fall.
Insider Tip: Midweek stays offer quieter slopes and lower rates.
Direct Booking & Travel Deals
Booking directly with vacation rental providers like Visit Sunday River Vacation Rentals offers:
- Lower rates than third-party sites.
- Personalized service.
- Early access to promotions and seasonal packages.
Conclusion
Sunday River and Bethel, Maine offer the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, cozy lodging, and small-town charm. Whether you're planning a winter ski trip, a summer escape, or a fall foliage getaway, you'll find everything you need for an unforgettable vacation.
Ready to start planning? Browse our collection of Sunday River vacation rentals and book your stay today!