New Portland, Maine

Wire Bridge village on the Carrabassett River

Overview

New Portland is best known for its remarkable wire suspension bridge built in 1866, one of only a few remaining in the nation. The town sits in a scenic valley along the Carrabassett River, with historic buildings, covered bridges nearby, and easy access to mountain recreation in the nearby Bigelow Range.

Key Facts

Population 800

Region Western Mountains

County Somerset

Founded 1808

Nearest City Farmington (15 miles)

Town Office Visit official website

What New Portland Is Known For

New Portland Local Highlights

Wire Bridge

Historic 1866 wire suspension bridge spanning the Carrabassett River, a rare surviving example of 19th-century engineering.

Nowetah's Gift Shop

Famous roadside attraction and gift shop known throughout Maine.

Things to Do

Wire Bridge

Walk across the historic suspension bridge and photograph this unique landmark.

Carrabassett River

Fish, kayak, or wade in this beautiful mountain river.

Scenic Drives

Explore Route 146 through the mountain valley with views of farmland and peaks.

Living in New Portland

New Portland offers rural mountain living with affordable homes and large properties. The town provides a quiet lifestyle with access to outdoor recreation. Residents typically commute to Farmington or Kingfield for work and services.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm days and cool nights, 70-80°F, with mountain breezes

winter

Very cold and snowy, 5-25°F, heavy snowfall in mountain valley

spring

Cool and muddy, 40-60°F, river runs high with snowmelt

fall

Spectacular foliage, 45-65°F, with mountain color displays

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose along river valleys Brook trout Black bears

How to Get There

New Portland is located on Route 146, about 15 miles northwest of Farmington and 20 miles south of Kingfield.

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

Satellite preview

New Portland outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you drive across the Wire Bridge?

No, the Wire Bridge is for pedestrian use only. There's a modern bridge nearby for vehicles.

Is New Portland near skiing?

Yes, Sugarloaf is about 20 miles north, and Saddleback is accessible via Rangeley.