Town of Island Falls, Maine

Island Falls is one of those smallish Maine towns that’s enormous on civic pride. In lots of ways, it’s even more than that!

Our southern Aroostook County town embraces the general location in which it’s seated. And, truth be told, that’s rather central to the best that these northern regions have to offer. Why, it even has an international aspect, being as close as we are to Canada, especially the province of New Brunswick.

Besides having the option for an across-the-border visit, you even have varied travel options for getting here! Interstate 95 is minutes away, or you can follow interstate route 2 that meanders all the way across Vermont, through the White Mountains area of New Hampshire, and on through central Maine, passing right through Island Falls on its way to Houlton.

Of course, if you want to arrive more quickly, you can fly to Bangor International Airport. A lot of my friends in central parts of Maine fly out of there instead of Portland, giving you a good head’s up, knowing that Bangor’s only an hour and 20 minutes away.

Once here, you’ll see how a section of the Mattawamkeag River flows right through town. Yup, right there is the town’s namesake, an island with a sparkling set of falls. We’re sure fortunate, as those are just a portion of the area’s water features, as you’ll read about shortly.

From Fishing to Stargazing, and a Morning Round of Golf

Along with a healthy dose of peaceful relaxation, Island Falls offers visitors and residents alike all kinds of outdoor activities. Mind you, those are year-round too!

Stargazing is one. It’s a good reason to stay up late, get up early, or venture forth in the middle of the night. Up here we don’t have light pollution, so you’ll get a good view of the Milky Way and constellations.

We know photographers who do time-lapse images of star trails. Very cool! Plus during the day you can gaze at Katahdin off in the distance or take a ride over for more spectacular scenery.

If you’re a fan of fishing, you’ll sure be happy with the Island Falls lakes. Mattawamkeag, Upper Mattawamkeag, and Pleasant are the largest nearby, with both cold and warm water fishing.

Plus Mattawamkeag is on the list of the 60 largest lakes in Maine, really telling you something as there are over 6,000 lakes and ponds in the state! A lot of them are right here in Aroostook County as you can see by the lake survey map link. You can access information about each lake, its own variety of fish, and depth charts.

Now maybe some in your party aren’t into the water or fishing. They’ll be happy to know that Island Falls boasts an 18-hole golf course with all sorts of terrain and views.

If you take a look at their page, you’ll see what I mean. One of the services at the course is a restaurant with some mouth-watering selections.

Of course, maybe someone in your group will be cooking up some game. Hunting season can come and go quickly, depending on which ones you’re interested in. That means planning ahead, looking into outfitters and guides who know the rules and where to find what you’re aiming for.

Remember that it gets quite cold here, happy news for ice-fishing enthusiasts. Bring your warmest gear, find cozy lodging, and you’ll be all set for a fine winter getaway. The outdoor fun sure doesn’t stop there!

And since we’ve moved onto things to do when the temperature takes a mighty drop, let’s take a look at skiing, boarding, and riding near Island Falls.

First, you’ll be happy to know that Big Valley Sno Club is located right here in Island Falls for all you snowmobiling fans!

As for skiing, that’s available an hour away up at Big Rock Mountain with its super variety of trails, rentals, and tubing to boot! If your inclination is more toward groomed trails for Nordic skiing, you can head over to the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument or up to the Nordic Heritage Center near Presque Isle.

Both places have lots to do throughout the year. It’s a good idea to check ahead about what gear to bring and admission this and that.

Time to Cover the Basics & Lodging

Island Falls is fortunate to have a full service grocer in Jerry’s Food Store. That’s something not every small town can say.

There are also gift shops nearby, something we consider a basic for people wanting to take home some northern Maine memorabilia. You’ll be happy to know we also have an animal clinic and Katahdin Valley Health Center. Plus, Houlton Regional Hospital is only a half-hour away, though I sure hope you won’t be needing it.

You’ll be happy to learn that here in Island Falls we have camping plus time share rentals and private cabins here and there. Birch Point Campground is located at Pleasant Lake were you’ll find seasonal camping and year round housekeeping cottages.

If you’re seeking a special retreat for self-care, time to look into the Sewall House Yoga Retreat that’s known for its expertise. Why, it’s even garnered a Trip Advisor recommendation! This is a seasonal option so best to plan well in advance.

There’s also Vacationland Estates Resort where you can book a stay or make a purchase. You’re sure to notice that the location is ideal for family time!

Thinking of caring for yourself and loved ones is a good way to close our time talking about Island Falls. Yup, we’re one place where you can get away from it all, whether you choose to do so for a week, a month, or maybe a decade or two.

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