A Rockin' Day-Trip in Bethel

Discover Bethel, Maine: A Perfect Blend of Natural Beauty and Fascinating History

From uncovering Maine’s geological wonders to exploring scenic hiking trails, here's why this hidden gem should be your next day-trip destination.

We made a day-trip to the Bethel area to see the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum and to hike at Grafton Notch State Park.

Check out the highlights from our trip and see why you might want to add these spots to your travel list.

DiCocoa's Bakery & Cafe

Our first stop on the road trip was Dicocoa's, a cozy café on Main Street, right next to the Maine Mineral Museum. This bustling spot offers coffee, bakery treats, homemade gelato, and groceries, and the small wait only confirmed how popular it is.

We ordered a maple latte, house chai, banana poppy bread, and a blackberry scone—everything was absolutely delicious and exactly what we needed to kickstart our day!

Maine Mineral & Gem Museum

After breakfast, we visited the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum. The museum showcases our state's geographical history with numerous displays of mineral and rock specimens from all over Maine, including the famous Perham Collection.

I was surprised at how large the museum was and how much there was to see from our state alone. If you are a rock and mineral enthusiast, this is a must-see!

Grafton Notch State Park

Approximately 14 miles north of Bethel, near the New Hampshire border is Grafton Notch State Park. The park is located amidst Maine's Mahoosuc Range and provides spectacular views for sightseeing and hiking. Grafton Notch is a great destination for outdoor lovers and offers both challenging hikes and short walks that lead to waterfalls and gorges.

Table Rock Loop

The Table Rock Loop is a 2.4-mile (round trip) moderate-to-advanced hike offering breathtaking views of Old Speck Mountain and Grafton Notch. The real payoff is at the summit, where a flat, table-like rock provides sweeping panoramas of the surrounding landscape. It’s one of those hikes that feels incredibly rewarding.

At the trailhead, you can choose between the orange-blazed steep, rocky trail (not recommended for pets or children) or the white-blazed, moderately steep path. We opted for the latter, making for an easier ascent, but took the steeper, more challenging route back down. I couldn't help but think how tough it would’ve been to hike up that way!

Screw Auger Falls

Screw Auger Falls is another must-see spot in Grafton Notch. The 0.4-mile network of paths around the falls provides a peaceful place to unwind while exploring the area. Here, you’ll find a stunning 23-foot waterfall, along with a series of cascades, shallow pools, and scenic grottos.