A waterfall & swimming hole of your own ...

Let the music of rushing whitewater and the solitude of Maine's 100-Mile Wilderness lull you into a week-long daydream in this cozy housekeeping cabin on the banks of picturesque Big Wilson Stream. Your very own 2,500-foot stretch of river tumbles over a stepped waterfall, ambles in a deep pool fit for a summertime swim, and carves its way through a field of polished slate.

Nestled into 25 acres of stately dogwood, spruce, poplar and maple, this north woods retreat offers a gallery-perfect setting for your family vacation, accommodating 6-8 guests comfortably. A private picnic area, complete with picnic table, pole-mounted charcoal barbecue, fire ring, and Adirondack chairs, lends a park-like atmosphere to your outings, without having to venture further than your own back yard.

The adventurous among you can make daily treks to Borestone Mountain, Little Wilson Stream's upper and lower falls, and Big Wilson Cliffs, all within 2.5 miles of home base. You'll cross paths with Appalachian Trail hikers coming down from Mount Katahdin and through the Gulf Hagas, Maine's answer to the Grand Canyon. Little Greenwood Pond and larger Lake Onawa beckon to the east, with miles of wilderness shoreline to explore by boat. Or, commune with the river itself, paddling or packing to nearby landmarks like Tobey Falls, Salmon Hole, and the suspension bridge underpass in Willimantic.

Back at camp, barbecue your meals on the oversized deck, overlooking the river, or retire indoors to a country kitchen / great room with a hearth & wood stove, soaring ceilings, and 180-degree views of the gently sloping north woods. By night, snuggle down into one of the two main-floor bedrooms, or the sleeping loft, and let the river sing you a lullaby, unaccompanied by the noises of civilization.

For an occasional fix of north woods hospitality or to restock your provisions, there are eateries and camp stores in nearby Monson (8 miles, via winding Elliotsville Road) and Greenville (15 miles north of Monson on Route 6/15). Keep an eye out along the way, especially passing by boggy areas. You are in Moose Country!

— Eric & Tricia Schult