Messalonskee Lake is a body of water in the Belgrade Lakes region of Maine. It is bordered by the towns of Oakland, Sidney, and Belgrade. The lake is a 9 mile long, narrow, natural creation, resulting from continental collision and glacial scouring. A dam originally built in the town of Oakland in 1905 increased the lake’s size.
In the first part of the 20th century, Messalonskee Stream provided waterpower for Oakland’s Cascade Woolen Mill, as well as for a number of factories responsible for Oakland’s long-defunct title as “axehead capital of the world.”
Messalonskee Lake is home to a great variety of wildlife, including great blue herons, bass, yellow perch, white perch, sunfish, painted and snapping turtles, loons, and occasionally Bald Eagles can be seen soaring above the lake. The surrounding community has recently formed the Messalonskee Lake Association in the interest of its protection and preservation.
Like some Maine lakes, Messalonskee Lake has seen infestations of Milfoil.
The lake is also more commonly called “Snow Pond”, a reference to Philip Snow who settled in the area in 1774.
Many summer camps and related tourist accommodations are located on Messalonskee Lake, among them the New England Music Camp, which was founded in 1937.
- Surface area (mi)
- 8.82
- Max depth (ft)
- 111.55
- Elevation (ft)
- 232.94
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 29.83
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Hiking
Islands
In the heart of Maine, a delightful surprise awaits those who venture to the serene Messalonskee Lake, where a handful of islands dot the landscape, each steeped in charm and unique history. Among them, the largest, known as Black Island, offers a stunning escape for hikers, with trails meandering through lush forests, culminating in lookout points that boast breathtaking views across the shimmering waters. Each turn reveals remnants of the past, including echoes of early settlers’ cabins, inviting exploration and storytelling. Generations of visitors have flocked here, drawn by the tranquil splendor and opportunities for water recreation, from kayaking to fishing. The islands serve as vital waypoints for local wildlife and are favored by photographers for their natural beauty. Few know that these islands were once significant in navigating trade routes, making them not only a recreational haven but also a poignant reminder of Maine’s rich maritime history.
Nearby amenities
For those visiting this picturesque area in Maine, there are numerous amenities to enhance your lake experience. Boating enthusiasts will find launches at Belgrade Lakes Marina and ample options for boat rentals, including jet skis and pontoons. The convenience of fuel docks and wash stations supports a seamless day on the water. If you’re looking to enjoy dining, the Lake House Restaurant offers lakefront views with a delightful menu, while local cafes provide quick snacks. For essential supplies, the General Store in Belgrade can stock you up with groceries and fishing gear. Overnight accommodations are plentiful, with options ranging from cozy cabins at the Lakeside Cabins to RV hookups at local campgrounds. Outdoor activities abound, with hiking trails nearby and designated fishing spots attractive to anglers. Facilities such as public restrooms, picnic areas, and trash disposal make it easy to enjoy your day without hassle. Accessibility is excellent, with ample parking and ADA-compliant paths available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Messalonskee Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Yes, it is generally safe to swim in Messalonskee Lake. The lake had good water clarity in 2024, with Secchi Disk Transparency averaging 17 feet, which is in line with the ten-year average. However, efforts are ongoing to address watershed sources of phosphorus to maintain water quality.
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Messalonskee Lake is a popular destination because of its excellent fishing, swimming, and boating opportunities. The lake is home to various fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, trout, and northern pike. It also hosts events like the Maine Pond Hockey Classic and offers hiking and bird watching in the surrounding areas.
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For Messalonskee Lake in Maine, the daily bag limit is one landlocked salmon and one brook trout. General law length and bag limits apply, except for these specific daily limits. From August 16 to September 30, fishing is open using artificial lures or flies only.
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There is no beach with a boat launch on Messalonskee Lake. The lake has several boat ramps, including hard ramps in Sidney and Oakland, and a carry-in ramp in Belgrade, but none of these are associated with a beach. These ramps provide access for boating and water activities.
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Messalonskee Lake is near the towns of Oakland, Sidney, and Belgrade. These towns border the lake’s nine-mile-long lakeshore. Oakland is also close to other nearby cities like Waterville and Augusta.