A west that’s wild and well-groomed

The welcoming committee were four-legged. Three moose arrived as if on cue at sunset as we navigated the mini-Kancamagus Route 17 with its glorious lake vistas before winding down to town. Rangeley is unassuming, more a western Maine sportsmen’s enclave than a ski town. It is anti-glitz with more camps than condos. Ski. Snowmobile. A perfect getaway if you’re looking for an outdoor weekend for singles or couples.

Stay

The 35-room Rangeley Inn (2443 Main St., www.rangeleyinn.com, 207-864-3341, $84-$159), circa 1907, oozes period charm with maple floors, wooden columns, original lobby hearth, and antiques galore. Tickle the keys on the lobby piano under the gaze of wildlife mounted on the walls. Rooms are simply furnished and contain either modern showers or vintage claw-foot tubs. Or if you want to be closer to the mountain, head out to Saddleback (976 Saddleback Road, $175-$450, www.saddlebackmaine.com, 877-864-5441) and check out the ski resort’s fully-furnished, one- to four-bedroom trailside lodges and condos that come complete with kitchens.