Maine Best Local Secrets 2011

BEST SWIMMIN’ HOLE
Smalls Falls, Township E
Twelve miles south of Rangeley and about four miles north of Madrid, the Sandy River squeezes through a gorge, dropping more than 50 feet in a series of four waterfalls interspersed with ledges. Soak in the pool at the bottom or hike up the trail edging the falls to dip into one or more of the upper pools. Smalls Falls State Rest Area, Route 4.

BEST STICKY BUNS & SPRING ROLLS
Baker’s Way, Boothbay Harbor
Not only does Baker’s Way turn out delicious pastries, but it also doubles as a Vietnamese restaurant. Order spring rolls, steamed dumplings, pho, and a beef salad. When it’s beautiful outside, dine in the backyard garden. Entrées: from $6. 89 Townsend Ave. 207-633-1119

BEST WINDOW DRESSING
St. Saviour’s Episcopal Church, Bar Harbor
Who knew? Maine’s largest collection of Tiffany stained-glass windows graces this 1878 church, which has 10 originals plus 32 intriguing non-Tiffany ones. Both self-guided and guided tours available. 41 Mt. Desert St. 207-288-4215; ellsworthme.org/ssaviour

BEST EASY HIKE WITH BIG VIEWS
Shackford Head State Park,Eastport
Stroll on marked trails out this headland, which rises gently 173 feet above Cobscook Bay. Views extend from Eastport to Lubec and Campobello Island. Check out the salmon-farming pens below and watch for eagles soaring above. 106 Hogan Road (off Deep Cove Road). 207-941-4014; maine.gov/doc/parks