Lee combines preserved local history with a planetarium and a variety of outdoor activities. When planning, you can choose between architectural history and museums, activities at Silver Lake and in the woods, and motorized trails. Different practical considerations apply depending on your focus: private museum tours are available by appointment; for some outdoor activities, you should take season and access into account.
Historic Buildings in Lee
Abial Cushman’s Store, also known as Home on the Grange, is a preserved 19th-century commercial building in the Greek Revival style. Mallett Hall adds a connection to travel to this view of local history: the historic landmark in Lee was built in 1889 as a country hotel for travelers between Lincoln and Fredericton. Originally an inn, it later became a summer hotel for tourists and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. When comparing the buildings, the Store stands out for its preserved commercial architecture and style, while Mallett Hall is notable for its former hotel history.
Museum and Planetarium
The Lee Historical Museum is located in the historic Elmwood Hall building. It features period room displays, artifacts and genealogical records; a carriage house is also part of the museum experience. Private tours are available by appointment. If you plan to take one, arrange the appointment in advance.
The Judith Cobb Mallett Planetarium at Lee Academy is the only planetarium at a high school in the state of Maine. Educators and organizations can contact Lee Academy to learn more about a planetarium experience. This means the planning process differs from that for a private museum tour: an appointment can be arranged for the museum, while the planetarium’s first step is an inquiry from the groups mentioned.
Silver Lake and Woodland Trails
Cole’s Landing is a public beach and boat launch on Silver Lake. Boating, fishing, kayaking and canoeing are possible there; ice fishing is also available in winter. The Lee Hiking Trails wind through scenic wooded areas near Cole’s Landing and offer routes for hiking, walking and snowshoeing. This puts activities on the lake alongside trails through the woods. Check seasonal conditions and access at Cole’s Landing; trail conditions and seasonal access may vary on the trails.
Snowmobile and ATV/UTV Trails
The Lee Mogul Pounders Snowmobile Club maintains and grooms more than 40 miles of snowmobile trails. The trail system connects to Maine’s larger ITS network. Access to snowmobile trails is seasonal and depends on conditions, and route connections may change. So check current trail conditions before setting out.
The Mt. Jefferson Backcountry Riders offer more than 140 miles of ATV/UTV trails from Lee into neighboring towns. Compared with the snowmobile offering, both the type of vehicle and the stated trail mileage differ. Access and conditions for ATV/UTV trails are also seasonal; check them before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Orono, Lincoln, Bangor, Brewer, Glenburn, Dexter, Corinna, Millinocket
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