Shapleigh, Maine

Lakes and ledges on the York County foothills

Overview

Shapleigh borders Acton and Newfield in western York County. Camps line Mousam Lake, while inland ledges and pine forest offer hiking and hunting. Residents balance rural living with commutes to Sanford, Rochester, or Biddeford-Saco.

Key Facts

Population 2,900

Region Southern Maine

County York

Founded 1785

Nearest City Sanford (15 minutes)

Town Office Visit official website

What Shapleigh Is Known For

Shapleigh Local Highlights

Lake life

Mousam Lake and Square Pond provide swimming, boating, and ice fishing.

Forested hills

Trails and old woods roads lead to local ledges and ponds.

Rural access

Route 11 links Shapleigh to Sanford and the Lakes Region quickly.

Things to Do

Boat Mousam Lake

Enjoy public launches and warm-water fishing.

Explore Shapleigh woods

Walk local conservation parcels and snowmobile trails.

Foliage drives

Follow Route 11 north toward Waterboro and Limerick for fall color.

Living in Shapleigh

Shapleigh offers lake camps and year-round homes with services in Sanford or Biddeford. Snowmobile clubs and lake associations are active parts of community life.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 72-84 F

winter

Cold, 8-28 F with steady snow

spring

Cool and muddy, 40-58 F

fall

Crisp, 45-60 F with strong foliage

How to Get There

Reach Shapleigh via Route 11 from Sanford or Newfield; Route 109 connects to Acton and the NH border.

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

Satellite preview

Shapleigh outline

Outdoor Recreation

Boating & Sailing

June - September

Fishing in Maine 2026: Complete Freshwater & Saltwater Guide

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Snowmobiling in Maine: 14,000 Miles of Trails & Complete Guide

Winter (December - April)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shapleigh known for?

Shapleigh is known for Mousam Lake and Square Pond offering swimming, boating, and ice fishing, forested hills with trails and old woods roads, and its position as a rural York County community with quick access to Sanford.

How far is Shapleigh from Sanford?

Shapleigh is about 15 minutes from Sanford via Route 11. The town balances rural living with commutes to Sanford, Rochester (NH), or the Biddeford-Saco area.

Can I boat on Mousam Lake?

Yes, Mousam Lake has public boat launches for warm-water fishing, paddling, and general lake recreation. Square Pond also offers lake access in Shapleigh.