The mountains, lakes, farms and fields of Western Maine serve as the perfect backdrop for numerous activities. Here is a partial list to help you plan some activities in the Oxford Hills, Rumford and Farmington areas.

Waterfalls and picnics:

Ellis Falls, Andover: Secluded waterfall arising from the Ellis Meadow Brook. Look for an off-road parking area on Route 120, about two miles east of Andover.

Screw Auger Falls, Grafton Township: North of Newry on Route 26. Sightseeing, picnicking, and hiking on its 3,000 acres of varied terrain. Picnic tables, bathrooms and a large parking area. Sights include Screw Auger Falls, Spruce Meadow, Mother Walker Falls, Old Speck Mountain and Moose Cave.

Snow Falls, West Paris: Picnicking and hiking along Little Androscoggin River, as it cuts its way through a narrow gorge alongside Route 26. Four cascades send the peaceful waters gushing downward.

Washburn-Norlands Living History Center, 290 Norlands Road, Livermore, ME 04253; 207-897-4366; Norlands@norlands.org http://www.norlands.org/. History-themed fun activities for the whole family.

Whistle Stop Rail-Trail:  A 13-mile trail from Jay (off Rte.4/17) to Farmington (off Farmer Lane), the trail is used for horseback riding, mountain biking, snowmobiling, walking, and cross country skiing.

Worthley Pond in Peru offers camping and a beautiful beach.

Rangeley Lakes Logging Museum, 291 Route 16, Rangeley, 207-864-5595.

Titcomb Mountain in West Farmington offers skiing in a friendly atmosphere.

Black Mountain of Maine, 39 Glover Road, Rumford, FMI: 207-364-8977, http://www.skiblackmountain.org/.

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