Bridgton, Maine

Love Always, Bridgton

Overview

Bridgton is the primary service center for the Lakes Region. It sits uniquely between the water and the mountains, offering boating on Long Lake and Highland Lake in the summer, and skiing at Pleasant Mountain (formerly Shawnee Peak) in the winter. The downtown is charming, with a movie theater, bookstores, and shops.

Key Facts

Population 5,418

Region Western Mountains

County Cumberland

Founded 1794

Nearest City Portland (1 hour)

Town Office Visit official website

What Bridgton Is Known For

Bridgton Local Highlights

Pleasant Mountain Ski Area

Maine's oldest ski area, famous for its extensive night skiing and lake views from the summit.

The Lakes

Bridgton sits between Highland Lake and Long Lake, making it a boater's paradise.

Bridgton Academy

A historic postgraduate preparatory school that brings students and athletics to the town.

Magic Lantern Theater

A beautiful independent movie theater and pub that serves as a community gathering space.

Things to Do

Ski at Pleasant Mountain

Hit the slopes day or night at this family-friendly mountain.

Swim at Highland Lake Beach

Relax at the public beach right in the downtown area.

Watch a movie at the Drive-In

Experience a double feature under the stars at the Bridgton Twin Drive-In.

Hike Bald Pate Mountain

Enjoy a moderate hike with rewarding views of the lakes and Mount Washington.

Shop on Main Street

Visit Bridgton Books, Renys, and local art galleries.

Living in Bridgton

Bridgton attracts both retirees and young families who want a rural lifestyle with good amenities. It is a true four-season town.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm and humid, 70-85°F

winter

Cold and snowy, 15-30°F

spring

Muddy and cool, 40-55°F

fall

Spectacular foliage, 50-65°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Loons Deer Moose (occasional) Black Bear

How to Get There

Bridgton is located on Route 302, about an hour west of Portland and 30 minutes east of North Conway, NH.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Bridgton outline

Related Guides

Best Day Trips from Portland

Islands, beaches, lighthouses and mountains within reach of Portland, with the route, the 2026 fee and the closing date for each, checked against the operator or the state in September 2026.

Maine Fall Foliage 2026: Peak Dates, Best Drives & Leaf Peeping Guide

Maine fall foliage: peak dates by region, best scenic drives, Rangeley, Acadia, and photography tips.

The Ultimate Guide to Maine Maple Sunday

The sweetest day of the year. Discover sugarhouses, taste fresh syrup, and celebrate the start of spring in Maine.

Complete Guide to Skiing in Maine

Every Maine ski area, with terrain stats and 2026/27 prices checked against the operators: Sugarloaf, Sunday River, Saddleback, Pleasant Mountain and the community hills.

Stephen King Tour in Maine: Bangor Locations from It & Pet Sematary

Stephen King tour in Bangor, Maine. The King house, It locations, Standpipe, Barrens, and Pet Sematary sites.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Bridgton known for?

Bridgton is known as the hub of Maine's Lakes Region, sitting between Highland Lake and Long Lake with Pleasant Mountain (formerly Shawnee Peak) ski area nearby. The town offers year-round recreation, a charming downtown with the Magic Lantern Theater, and the iconic Bridgton Twin Drive-In.

Can I ski at Pleasant Mountain?

Yes. Pleasant Mountain, the ski area formerly named Shawnee Peak, is known for extensive night skiing, offers lake views from the summit, and sits just minutes from downtown Bridgton. Note the name: shawneepeak.com now redirects to pleasantmountain.com, so write-ups saying Pleasant Mountain is 'now Shawnee Peak' have it backwards.

How far is Bridgton from Portland?

Bridgton is about 1 hour west of Portland on Route 302. It's also about 30 minutes east of North Conway, NH, making it a convenient base for both Maine lakes and White Mountain destinations.