Bird the Boreal Forest with Us

From Boreal Chickadees in our vast forests to Loons on our magnificent lakes to the rare Bicknell’s Thrush in the high peaks above, the Rangeley Region is rich with birds. Add in both migrating and breeding warblers, and you have a unique opportunity to see and learn about birds that are difficult to find in other parts of Maine, all in one weekend.

Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust has partnered with Saddleback Mountain to make the 2025 Rangeley Birding Festival bigger and better than ever! Get ready for four days of incredible birdwatching and unforgettable experiences. Explore some of the best boreal birding spots in the Northeast with expert biologists and seasoned birders as your guides. Plus, enjoy festival highlights, including:

-- A special welcome reception at Saddleback

-- Lift access up Saddleback Mountain for breathtaking views and birding opportunities

-- An inspiring keynote speaker dinner

-- A delightful brunch at The Nest, Saddleback’s high-elevation restaurant

Trips & Activities

Highlights
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Scenic Chairlift Rides
This year, festival goers will enjoy lift transportation up and down Saddleback Mountain. Ride the Rangeley Quad to high-elevation habitat, home to Bicknell's Thrush and Boreal chickadees.

Activities for Young Birders
The Kid’s Banding Station is a hands-on activity where participants (of all ages) learn about bird banding by receiving their own unique “band” (a beaded bracelet) based on real bird banding data collection methods.

Brunch at The Nest
Join us for a Bicknell's Brunch at Saddleback's high-elevation restaurant, The Nest. Acclaimed by Downeast Magazine, The Nest is perched high atop Saddleback at 3,620'—a dining experience like no other.

Full Trip Schedule

Visiting the Rangeley Lakes Region isn’t just about soaking in its breathtaking natural beauty—it’s also your chance to check off some “bucket list” bird species you’ve been eager to spot. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable birding adventure!

Thursday, June 5, 2025

The festival kicks off Thursday evening with a Welcome Reception: Meet & Greet Your Guides. Thursday at 5-7 p.m. at The Pub at Saddleback Mountain. Meet other attendees, our guides, and Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust staff. Name tags, directions, and additional registration materials for participants will be available.

Buy Tickets.