The Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust (RLHT) is set to host the Annual Rangeley Birding Festival from Thursday, June 5 through Sunday, June 8, offering bird enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to explore Western Maine’s diverse birding habitats. This year’s festival promises to be particularly special, as RLHT has partnered with Saddleback Mountain to offer lift access, a brunch high atop the mountain, new programming, and activities.

A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

The Rangeley Lakes Region is renowned for its rich birdlife, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers. From the elusive Bicknell’s Thrush found in the high-elevation spruce-fir forests of Saddleback Mountain to the charming Boreal Chickadees inhabiting vast woodlands, the area boasts a variety of species that are often challenging to spot elsewhere in the Northeast.

A baby Bicknell Photo by Jeanne Tucker

2025 Festival & Trip Highlights

The 2025 festival is designed to cater to both seasoned birders and newcomers alike. With expert guides leading excursions, participants will have the chance to explore various habitats, increasing the likelihood of observing a wide array of species. Attendees will enjoy these highlights this year:

• A special welcome reception at Saddleback’s Pub on Thursday, Jun 5, 2025.
• Lift access to Saddleback Mountain for breathtaking views and expanding trips to birders who don’t want to do the hike
• An inspiring keynote speaker dinner featuring Jason Hill of the Vermont Center for Ecostudies
• Brunch at The Nest, Saddleback’s high-elevation restaurant

Birders enjoy brunch at The Nest on Saddleback Mountain. Submitted photo

From the serene shores of the Kennebago River to the high-elevation habitat of Saddleback Mountain, guided trips will take you to some of the Northeast’s most renowned birding hotspots, including:

• Saddleback Mountain
• The widely acclaimed Perham Stream Birding Trail
• The breathtaking views of Quill Hill
• The Kennebago 3000 conservation lands
• The Mingo Springs Birdwalk
• The Rangeley Lakes Trail Center and more!

Jason Hill of the Vermont Center for Ecostudies is the 2025 Rangeley Birding Festival Keynote Speaker. Submitted photo

Plus, a Kid’s Bird Banding station, offering a hands-on activity where participants (of all ages) can learn about bird banding by receiving their own unique “band” (a beaded bracelet) based on real bird banding data collection methods.

Beyond Birding: Embracing Conservation and Community

RLHT’s mission extends beyond organizing events like the Rangeley Birding Festival; it is deeply committed to land conservation and community engagement. Since its founding in 1991, RLHT has conserved more than 120,000 acres in the Rangeley Lakes Region, ensuring that these natural places remain protected for future generations to explore and enjoy. The festival not only celebrates the region’s avian diversity but also underscores the importance of preserving these ecosystems.

For more information and to register for the Annual Rangeley Birding Festival, visit rangeleybirdingfestival.com.