Greenville, Maine

Gateway to the North Woods

Overview

Greenville is the frontier of the Maine wilderness. It sits on the shores of Moosehead Lake, the largest lake in the state (40 miles long). It is a town of seaplanes, fishing guides, and logging trucks. If you want to see a moose or disappear into the woods, this is where you start.

Key Facts

Population 1,437

Region Western Mountains

County Piscataquis

Founded 1836

Nearest City Bangor (1.5 hours)

Town Office Visit official website

What Greenville Is Known For

Greenville Local Highlights

Moosehead Lake

The gateway to the largest lake in Maine, offering endless water activities.

Moose watching

Widely considered one of the best places in New England to spot moose in the wild.

Steamship Katahdin

Home of the historic 'Kate', offering scenic cruises on the lake.

B-52 Crash Site

The memorial site of a historic Cold War-era B-52 crash on Elephant Mountain.

Things to Do

Take a cruise on the Steamship Katahdin

Tour Moosehead Lake on a historic vessel while learning about the logging era.

Go on a moose safari

Join a guided tour to safely find and photograph moose in their natural habitat.

Hike Mount Kineo

Take a boat shuttle to hike the sheer cliffs of this peninsula for spectacular views.

Visit the B-52 Memorial

Pay respects at the crash site preservation on Elephant Mountain.

Fly in a seaplane

Take a scenic flight for a bird's-eye view of the vast North Maine Woods.

Living in Greenville

Greenville is remote and rugged. The economy depends heavily on tourism and forestry. It attracts those who love solitude, hunting, fishing, and deep winters.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Cool and breezy, 65-75°F

winter

Severe cold and deep snow, 0-20°F

spring

Late thaw, 40-55°F

fall

Stunning foliage, 45-60°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose (everywhere) Black Bears Loons Salmon & Trout

How to Get There

Greenville is about 1.5 hours northwest of Bangor via Route 15. It is the 'end of the line' before the paved roads turn to gravel logging tracks.

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

Satellite preview

Greenville outline

Trip Ideas Featuring Greenville

4 Days

Moosehead Lake & North Woods: 4-Day Wilderness Escape

Explore Maine's largest lake, pristine wilderness, and authentic North Woods culture in the state's most remote region.

6 Stops View Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the lake really that big?

Yes, Moosehead Lake is 40 miles long and 10 miles wide. It feels like an inland sea.

Do I need a 4x4 vehicle?

In town, no. But if you plan to explore the logging roads north of town (Golden Road, etc.), a vehicle with good clearance and rugged tires is highly recommended.