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There is a specific, quiet magic that settles over Newry once the last lifts at Sunday River stop spinning. While the winter crowds head south, the locals know that spring—the “off-season” that feels like a well-kept secret—is one of the most beautiful times to be in Western Maine. Spring in the Mahoosuc Range is a […]
There is a specific, quiet magic that settles over Newry once the last lifts at Sunday River stop spinning. While the winter crowds head south, the locals know that spring—the “off-season” that feels like a well-kept secret—is one of the most beautiful times to be in Western Maine.
Spring in the Mahoosuc Range is a season of transition. It is the sound of rushing meltwater in the Sunday River, the first sightings of green on the mountain ridges, and the return of a slower, more intentional pace of life. Whether you are a hiker, a foodie, or someone looking to disconnect from the digital world, Newry offers a sanctuary for those who appreciate the raw beauty of the Maine woods.
Here is how to spend a perfect spring weekend in Newry and how to thoughtfully curate your experience with a little help from the team at Jar Cannabis.
When the spring sun begins to warm the granite faces of the mountains, the trails start to call. While the high-altitude paths may still hold patches of snow, the lower-elevation trails around Sunday River and Newry offer the perfect opportunity to witness the forest waking up.
For a gentle start, the Sunday River Shoreline Trail offers a scenic, accessible walk that follows the river’s edge. If you are looking for views without the vertical strain, head to the Bethel Pathway. This paved, level trail follows the Androscoggin River and is perfect for a spring afternoon when the woods are still a bit muddy. For those seeking a panoramic reward, Mount Will—located just minutes from the Sunday River access road—offers a three-mile loop with stunning ledges overlooking the river valley.
Our Elevated Hiker gummies were designed specifically for the Maine enthusiast. These are not your average “sit on the couch” edibles; they feature a balanced cannabinoid profile intended to keep you feeling light and focused while you navigate the trail. The low-dose approach allows you to maintain your “mountain legs” while sharpening your appreciation for the vibrant greens of the spring moss and the roar of the rushing river. It is about enhancing the hike, not distracting from it.
If you are looking for what to do near Sunday River in spring, a trip to Grafton Notch State Park is non-negotiable. This is the time of year when Maine’s waterfalls are at their most powerful. Just a short drive north of Newry on Route 26, you will find iconic landmarks like Screw Auger Falls and the narrow granite gorge of Mother Walker Falls.
The force of the water carving through the prehistoric rock is a humbling reminder of nature’s power. If the trail conditions allow, the hike to Table Rock provides one of the most famous views in the region. Because the summer crowds have not yet arrived, you can often enjoy these vistas in total solitude.
After the trek to the falls, there is nothing quite like a cold drink by the water. Our cannabis-infused beverages are the perfect alcohol-free alternative for an outdoor toast. Because these drinks use nano-emulsion technology, the onset is quicker and more predictable than traditional edibles. They offer a refreshing, sparkling finish to a day of exploration, allowing you to stay hydrated and clear-headed as you soak in the mist of the falls.
One of the best things to do in Newry, Maine in the spring is absolutely nothing at all. After a winter of rushing to catch first chair, spring invites you to sleep in.
Start your morning at Northern Lights Cafe for a quiet latte or head into Bethel to The Good Food Store for locally sourced snacks and gourmet prepared meals—perfect for stocking your cabin. For a classic Maine breakfast, Crossroads Diner is a local staple where the coffee is hot and the hospitality is genuine. This is also the best time to visit Steam Mill Brewing. Their taproom on the Sunday River road is much more relaxed in the spring, making it easy to grab a flight of Maine-made craft beer and a seat by the fire. Since they are practically our neighbors—just a short 1.5-mile hop down the road—it is the easiest “local loop” you can make.
For those mornings when you want to linger over a second cup of coffee on the porch, our Hash Rosin Tincture is the connoisseur’s choice. Unlike standard distillates that strip away the plant’s character, hash rosin is a solventless extract that preserves the full spectrum of terpenes and cannabinoids. Adding a few drops to your morning tea or coffee provides a nuanced, “entourage effect” that mimics the flower itself. It creates a grounded, full-body sense of calm that pairs perfectly with the sound of wind in the hemlocks and a slow-turning page of a book. Or if you’re feeling bold add a few drops into your favorite Steam Mill stout or hazy IPA to create a custom, full-spectrum infusion that hits all the right notes.
Western Maine spring travel is defined by the journey as much as the destination. The roads winding through Newry, Upton, and Bethel offer breathtaking views of the “High Peaks” still capped with white against a bright blue spring sky.
Take a drive to the Sunday River Covered Bridge (known locally as Artist’s Bridge) for a quintessential Maine photo op. Then, continue your drive toward the Height of Land on the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway. While it is a bit of a trek from Newry, the spring views of Mooselookmeguntic Lake are unparalleled. You might even spot a moose emerging from the woods to enjoy the fresh spring salt on the roadside.
After a day of exploring winding roads and historic bridges, there is nothing quite like returning to your home base to unwind. As the sun sets behind the peaks and the spring chill returns to the air, we recommend an indica-dominant Wedding Pie pre-roll. A cross between Wedding Cake and Grape Pie, this strain is a local favorite for its dessert-like aroma and heavy, relaxing profile. The deep notes of spicy berries and earthy gas act as the perfect “nightcap” for your mountain getaway, ideal for melting away any lingering tension from the drive and helping you transition into a deep, restful evening of stargazing by the fire pit.
At Jar Cannabis, we believe that the Maine experience is about quality, craftsmanship, and a deep connection to our surroundings. Our Newry location is situated right in the heart of this mountain community, serving as a resource for locals and visitors alike who want to enhance their time in the wild.
We take pride in our curated selection of flower, edibles, and concentrates, all designed to meet you where you are. Whether you are preparing for a hike in Grafton Notch or settling in for a quiet weekend of reading by the fire, our team is here to help you find the right fit for your lifestyle.
Spring is a time for renewal and for finding beauty in the transitions. We invite you to slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and discover everything that Newry has to offer during this peaceful season.
As you pack your bags and head toward the mountains, remember to keep your focus on what matters most. Keep your best in the jar.
We want your Maine experience to be as safe and seamless as the spring thaw. Please remember that all Jar Cannabis products are intended for adults 21+ only.
As you explore the beauty of Newry and Grafton Notch, we ask that you consume responsibly and privately. While our products are the perfect companion for a mountain getaway, Maine law prohibits consumption in public spaces, including state parks, public trails, and downtown Bethel. We encourage you to enjoy your Jar favorites at your home base, cabin, or private rental before heading out or after you’ve returned from the day’s adventures.
Respect our shared trail systems, never drive while impaired, and help us keep the Mahoosuc region pristine. Enjoy the season, stay present, and we’ll see you at the shop.
All Rights Reserved, Jar Co. 2017