Eustis, Maine

Gateway to the High Peaks.

Overview

Eustis is a remote mountain community in northwestern Franklin County, first settled in 1831 and incorporated in 1871. Named after Charles Eustis, an early landowner, this small town of just 641 residents serves as the gateway to some of Maine's most spectacular wilderness. Adjacent to 20-mile-long Flagstaff Lake, created in 1950 when Central Maine Power dammed the Dead River, and bordered by the magnificent Bigelow Preserve, Eustis offers unparalleled access to hiking, paddling, snowmobiling, and backcountry adventure in the High Peaks region.

Key Facts

Population 641

Region Maine Lakes & Mountains

County Franklin

Founded 1871

Nearest City Farmington (45 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Eustis Is Known For

Eustis Local Highlights

Flagstaff Lake

Maine's fourth-largest lake at 20 miles long, created in 1950, offering exceptional fishing, boating, and paddling with dramatic mountain views.

Bigelow Preserve Gateway

Direct access to Bigelow Mountain Range with 17 hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, including the Appalachian Trail.

Cathedral Pines

Premier campground and recreation area on Flagstaff Lake with nature trails, beach access, kayak rentals, and family-friendly amenities.

Snowmobiling Hub

Central location on Maine's interconnected trail system offering hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails through pristine wilderness.

Things to Do

Hike Bigelow Preserve

Explore 17 trails through 36,000-acre preserve, from easy nature walks to challenging summit hikes with panoramic High Peaks views.

Paddle Flagstaff Lake

Kayak or canoe this spectacular 20-mile lake surrounded by mountains, with boat launches at Cathedral Pines and Stratton.

Camp at Cathedral Pines

Stay at this lakeside campground with private beaches, nature trails, playground, and kayak rentals on Flagstaff Lake.

Snowmobile Wilderness Trails

Access hundreds of miles of groomed trails through remote mountain terrain connecting to Maine's extensive snowmobile network.

Living in Eustis

Eustis offers true wilderness living for those seeking remoteness and outdoor recreation. The tiny year-round population swells with seasonal residents, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Services are limited, requiring trips to Farmington or Rangeley for major shopping. Housing is affordable, and the community attracts those who prioritize mountain lifestyle over conveniences.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Cool mountain air, 58-72°F

winter

Very cold and snowy, 0-20°F

spring

Cool and muddy, 28-50°F

fall

Crisp and spectacular, 35-55°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose Black Bears White-tailed Deer Bald Eagles

How to Get There

Eustis is located in remote northwestern Franklin County along Route 27, approximately 45 minutes north of Farmington and 25 minutes south of the Canadian border. From Farmington, take Route 27 north through Kingfield and Carrabassett Valley. The town sits at 1,178 feet elevation in the High Peaks region.

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

Satellite preview

Eustis outline

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened to the old village of Flagstaff?

In 1950, Central Maine Power dammed the Dead River to create Flagstaff Lake for hydroelectric power. The villages of Flagstaff, Dead River, and Bigelow were flooded, and Flagstaff Cemetery was relocated to Eustis before the flooding.

Can I access the Appalachian Trail from Eustis?

Yes, the Appalachian Trail crosses through the nearby Bigelow Preserve, which is easily accessible from Eustis. The preserve offers direct access to this iconic long-distance hiking trail.

Is Eustis good for snowmobiling?

Absolutely! Eustis is a major hub on Maine's interconnected snowmobile trail system, offering hundreds of miles of groomed trails through spectacular mountain wilderness with reliable snow conditions.