Spot a Moose in Maine: Best Viewing Times, Safari Tours & Secret Hotspots
- Gerry Caron
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
Spot a Moose in Maine: A Guide to Moose Safaris, Tours & Top Viewing Spots
Dreaming of spotting a moose in the wild? You're in the right place. Maine is home to the largest moose population in the lower 48 states, and moose safaris are among the top outdoor experiences in the state. From spring awakenings to the majestic fall rut, here's everything you need to know about the best time and place to spot a moose in Maine.
🦌 When Is the Best Time to See a Moose in Maine?
The best time to see a moose in Maine is from May through October. Moose are most active during the cooler parts of the day and during specific seasons of the year.
Month-by-Month Moose Activity:
May: Moose emerge from the deep woods after winter, often seen roadside seeking salt and fresh vegetation.
June: Moose frequent lakes and wetlands, feeding on nutrient-rich aquatic plants. Antler growth begins in bulls.
July–August: Moose head to water to cool off and escape insects. Early morning and dusk are ideal for viewing.
September–October: This is the peak season during the fall rut. Bull moose sport full antlers and are actively roaming, making them easier to spot—but also more aggressive.
👉 If you want to see a full antlered bull moose, September and early October are your best bet.
🌲 Why Do Moose Love Maine?
Moose thrive in Maine’s cool climate and dense wilderness. Unlike humans, moose don’t mind the cold. In fact, moose begin to overheat at temperatures above 60°F and tend to retreat to shady wetlands and lakes to cool down during summer.
In winter, moose are still active, but they retreat deep into the woods where only experienced guides—or snowshoers with time—can follow.
📍 Top Places for Moose Safaris & Moose Tours in Maine
When you're ready to book your Maine moose tour, choose a region north of the line connecting Fryeburg, Augusta, Bangor, and Danforth. The best areas include the Maine Highlands, Kennebec Valley, the Mountains & Lakes Region, and Aroostook County.
1. Maine Highlands – Moosehead Lake & Baxter State Park
Greenville is known as the "Moose Capital of Maine" and offers some of the most consistent sightings.
Best Moose Safari Providers:
🛶 Northeast Whitewater
Moose tours by canoe, van, or on foot.
📍 Shirley, ME
📞 (207) 695-0151
🚐 Northwoods Outfitters
Private and group tours tailored to the best daily sightings.
📍 Greenville, ME
🦌 Moosehead Area Guide Service
Exclusive private safaris with expert guides.
📍 Greenville, ME
Must-Visit Spot:
Kokadjo at Lazy Tom Bog – Unbeatable sunrise and sunset views of moose.
2. Mountains & Lakes – Rangeley Region & Western Maine
Rangeley is a moose magnet—so much so, the nearby Mooselookmeguntic Lake translates to “moose feeding place.”
Best Moose Viewing Drives:
🛣️ Route 16 between Rangeley and Stratton (aka Moose Alley)
🛶 Kennebago Lake & Rangeley Lake State Park
🏞️ Grafton Notch State Park – Great for a moose hike + waterfall views
Moose Tour Options:
✈️ Seaplane Tours – Many local flight services offer wildlife-focused aerial safaris.
🥾 Mahoosuc Guide Service
📍 Newry, ME
3. Kennebec Valley – The Forks & Jackman Region
This is a prime route for moose sightings along Scenic Route 201, often dubbed the "Moose Alley of the Kennebec Valley."
Moose Safari Companies:
🏕️ North Country Rivers
Offers multi-day safari/camping combo packages.
📍 Bingham, ME
🌲 The Forks Adventure Resort
Combo rafting, hiking, and wildlife tours.
🦌 Ironbound Outdoors
Custom moose tours, off-road rides, and ATV adventures.
🏞️ Moose River Guide Service
📍 Jackman, ME
4. Aroostook County – “The County”
Maine’s northernmost wilderness offers some of the least crowded, most authentic moose viewing experiences.
Top Moose Viewing Roads:
Route 161 & U.S. Route 1 (Caribou to Fort Kent)
Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge
Safari Services:
🔭 Allagash Guide Service
Offers moose tours and antler hunting in spring.
📍 Allagash, ME
✅ Tips for Spotting Moose in Maine
Go early or late: Dawn and dusk are peak activity times.
Head north: The farther north you go, the better your chances.
Drive slowly: Moose often wander near roadsides.
Ask locals: Mainers know where the moose have been seen lately.
Stay safe: Moose can be unpredictable—especially during the rut.
📞 Book a Moose Tour in Maine
Tour Company Websites & Contacts:
Company | Location | Contact |
Northeast Whitewater | Greenville/Shirley | (207) 695-0151 / northeastwhitewater.com |
Northwoods Outfitters | Greenville | (207) 695-3288 / maineoutfitter.com |
Moosehead Area Guide Service | Greenville | |
North Country Rivers | Bingham | 1-800-348-8871 / northcountryrivers.com |
Allagash Guide Service | Aroostook |
What to Do in Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond
Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.
ATV/Snowmobile:: Explore thousands of miles of pristine wilderness.
Boating/Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore the lake's serene waters.
Camping/Swimming: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.
Fishing/Hunting: Discover prime fishing spots.
Hiking/Biking: Explore the wilderness.
Skiing/Sledding/Snowboarding/Snowshoeing: Miles of cross-country ski trails for those seeking a quieter adventure. Ski and snowboard rentals, plus lessons for beginners.
Local Attractions/Sightseeing: Learn about must-see sights in the region.
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit
Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
The best time to see a moose in Maine is from May through October, adventure awaits!
