"If I were heading there, I wouldn't start from here." Overheard by a local resident providing…read moredirections to Leen's Lodge. And "I don't think you can get there from here" was heard by another.
There's no quick way to Leen's Lodge. Ok, there is a floatplane that gets you there quickly from Bangor. But you have to get yourself to Bangor, first. Driving it's two hours from the airport.
But it is worth every bit of effort to get there. Leen's Lodge is a gem on the edge pristine clear waters of West Grand Lake in the heart of the northern Maine wilderness.
The lodging is rustic - it is cabins on the lake. But they are clean, quaint, and comfortable.
The service and food are top-notch. The proprietors, Scott and Kris Weeks, and family, along with a few extra staff provide an experience you won't ever forget.
Dinner - 5 stars. The first night I had the most amazing, perfectly seasoned, tender lamb chops with freshly baked homemade bread, wild rice, asparagus, and dessert was local blueberry pie. Other entrees included maple glazed salmon, filet mignon, and fresh Maine lobster.
Breakfast - You cannot beat it. Blueberry pancakes with local maple syrup and thickly sliced bacon. My morning order "Wendy, make whatever looks good today." I was never disappointed.
But you are not just coming here for the food. It's an epic outdoor experience - the quality of hunting and fishing is among the best in the world. We fished and caught as many big perch as we wanted, plenty of smallmouth bass, and even some land-locked salmon. (I won't mention that my fishing buddy hooked an eel - that did not get in the boat.) All of this with epic views while bald eagles and osprey soar overhead.
The fishing guides are amazing and make the experience suitable for anyone - whether you are an accomplished angler or you've never even baited a hook, you'll find what you're looking for here.
I understand the hunting is even better.
When you're there, don't forget to look up at the night sky. I don't think I have ever seen the stars so bright.
I am counting the days until I can return to Leen's Lodge.