Located on the section of the border that runs vertically between the United States and Canada, Houlton is in Maine’s Aroostook County and is set among some of the state and country’s most rural, scenic, and rugged landscapes. It’s also known for its variety of annual fairs and festivals that draw people from all over the region, and its border location makes day-trips into Canada easy as well. During the warm summer months, the area around Houlton comes alive with more activities than most visitors expect; many of them have been going on for years and are family friendly.

Whether you’re a hiker, mountain biker, snowmobiler or ATV rider, you can enjoy a different sort of exploration on the Southern Bangor and Aroostook Trail. This 37-mile, multi-use trail follows an old rail bed, so it’s relatively flat. It makes for a great trip as it winds through small towns in southern Aroostook. Want some fun on the water? Stop by in the spring for the annual Meduxnekeag River Canoe Race. It’s run each spring for more than 35 years and draws paddlers to a 9.5 miles stretch of the river, ending at a park downtown.

In May, join a hoard of other beer lovers in welcoming spring – and a bunch of new brews – at the annual Black Fly Brewfest. Over the 4th of July weekend each year, you can enjoy the Houlton Agricultural Fair, featuring concerts, amusement park rides and agricultural attractions.