Orland, Maine

Gateway to the Great Pond Mountain Wildlands

Overview

Orland spans riverfront neighborhoods, freshwater lakes, and the conserved Great Pond Mountain Wildlands. Residents enjoy quick drives to Bucksport, Ellsworth, and Acadia while keeping a rural, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.

Key Facts

Population 2,221

Region Downeast & Acadia

County Hancock

Founded 1800

Nearest City Bucksport (10 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Orland Is Known For

Orland Local Highlights

Great Pond Mountain Wildlands

Miles of multi-use trails, ponds, and ledges managed by the Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust.

Craig Brook National Fish Hatchery

A historic Atlantic salmon hatchery with a small museum and nature trail.

Lake country

Alamoosook Lake and Toddy Pond offer boating, paddling, and camp life.

Things to Do

Hike the Wildlands

Explore the Hothole Valley trail network and ledges with Penobscot River views.

Paddle Alamoosook Lake

Enjoy calm waters and access to Craig Brook and Route 1 landings.

Visit Bucksport and Ellsworth

Pair outdoor time with restaurants, shops, and events nearby.

Living in Orland

Orland is a bedroom community for Bucksport and Ellsworth with abundant outdoor access. Residents shop and work in nearby service centers.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 60-80 F

winter

Cold, 10-30 F with snow

spring

Cool and damp, 40-55 F

fall

Crisp, 45-60 F with lake foliage

How to Get There

Located on US-1 between Bucksport and Ellsworth; Route 15 connects inland toward Bangor.

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

Satellite preview

Orland outline

Outdoor Recreation

Boating & Sailing

June - September

Camping

May - October

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Birding

Year-round (Peak: May-June for migration)

Related Guides

Fort Knox & The Penobscot Narrows

Explore Maine's massive granite fortress that never fired a shot, and brave the dizzying heights of the world's tallest bridge observatory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orland known for?

Orland is known as the gateway to the Great Pond Mountain Wildlands with miles of hiking trails, Craig Brook National Fish Hatchery (a historic Atlantic salmon facility), and lakes like Alamoosook and Toddy Pond for boating and fishing.

How far is Orland from Bucksport?

Orland is about 10 minutes from Bucksport on Route 1. The town sits between Bucksport and Ellsworth, offering quick access to both communities and Acadia National Park beyond.

Can I hike in Orland?

Yes, the Great Pond Mountain Wildlands offers miles of multi-use trails, ponds, and ledges with Penobscot River views. The Hothole Valley trail network is popular with hikers and is managed by the Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust.