My family just returned from a week at Rangeley Lake Resort that was booked as a timeshare exchange, and we had a 3 bedroom log cabin that was immaculately clean. It was great having separate bedrooms for the children, and the cabin was very cozy despite the subzero temperatures last week. Checkin was a breeze, and we were quickly at home in Rangeley. Anything we forgot was available about 1/2 mile away at the IGA grocery store or at one of the other shops in Rangeley. We were also pleased to find the kitchen better stocked with pots, pans and utensils than in most places we've stayed.

We don't get much snow at home, so the kids enjoyed having a plentiful supply of clean powder to play in, and there were a couple of loaner sleds at the lodge for their use. After a sightseeing or other activities each day, we could relax and warm up at the indoor pool and hot tub. We never took advantage of the dry sauna, though. Then we'd retire to the cabin and relax in front of the fireplace and play card games til bedtime.

Our main outdoor activities were nordic and downhill skiing. Check out the Rangeley Lakes Cross Country Trails Center if you want an affordable day of outdoor exercise. Or, pick up the discounted lift ticket vouchers at the resort front desk and head up to Saddleback Maine for a wonderful and uncrowded downhill experience. There were very few people there the 2 days we skids, and it was almost like having you own personal ski resort with absolutely no lines for anything and a superb, very friendly staff.

Snowmobilers were everywhere, and the resort has access to the trails system. The local club maintains and grooms about 150 miles of trails.

Wildlife watchers will like the area, too. We saw moose, whitetail deer, red fox, and many birds at or near the resort. Another guest saw a lynx on the snowmobile trails. And, the lake is supposed to offer excellent fishing.

If headed to the Rangeley Lakes area, we wouldn't hesitate to stay at Rangeley Lake Resort again.