Maine’s Favorite Flavors and Attractions from a Local Baker

For those who call Maine home, celebrating the state’s unique seasons is a cherished tradition—filled with vivid memories of its natural beauty. Hailee Carter, a military veteran from Ellsworth, Maine and the founder of On the Horizon Bakery, fondly remembers childhood visits to Shin Pond with her father. When the ice formed, they would glide over the frozen surface on snowmobiles. "It’s incredibly tranquil," she shares. "You can speed across the wide-open fields or choose the groomed trails, surrounded by snow-laden trees, before taking a break to enjoy a meal and warm up."

Ice fishing, snowmobiling, and a wealth of winter activities in Shin Pond and beyond

Carter suggests renting a cabin by Shin Pond during winter for ice fishing and snowmobiling, and also recommends exploring lodging and equipment rental options in the Millinocket, Moosehead Lake, and Rangeley Lakes regions.

To make the most of your snowy adventure, Carter advises heading to Millinocket and then venturing "north into The County," a local term for the relaxed winter paradise that is Aroostook County.

Discover breweries, dining spots, and festivals in Ellsworth

In Ellsworth, Carter enjoys visiting Fogtown Brewing Company, where the sense of community blends seamlessly with a passion for delicious craft beers and wood-fired pizzas. One standout is the fiddlehead pizza, featuring this springtime delicacy, which has an earthy, asparagus-like flavor. Carter describes it as resembling “a mini green cinnamon roll, all swirled up.”

During different seasons, you might savor Fogtown’s elote pizza, topped with corn, cotija cheese, lime zest, and a spicy crema sauce. Alternatively, grab a Maine Coast IPA, made from locally sourced grains, and enjoy some live music. The proceeds from the beer support coastal conservation, reflecting the brewery's community-driven ethos that Carter appreciates.

Another beloved spot in Ellsworth, just a stone's throw from Fogtown, is the Conscious Cafe at Steamy Buddha, where she enjoys savory salad and grain bowls. For a heartier meal, Carter heads to Airline Brewery Company’s Ellsworth location on Main Street, a charming British pub-style eatery with a five-star ambiance and menu. “The food’s delicious,” she exclaims, especially their build-your-own mac and cheese served on Wednesdays.

Carter’s own venture, On the Horizon Bakery, operates from a food truck most days in Ellsworth, serving desserts, pastries, hot breakfast items, and coffee, renowned for its gooey cinnamon rolls. She also participates in various festivals, including the relatively new Downeast Rock & Roots Music Festival, held at Knowlton Park in July, which showcases local talent and food trucks.

Explore the trails and nature preserves in Clifton

When she’s not dishing out cinnamon rolls at festivals or in Ellsworth, Carter loves exploring the trails with her two dogs. One of her favorite spots is Chick Hill, featuring a dog-friendly trail that leads to stunning views of nearby lakes and a scenic grove of trees. While the winter landscape is beautifully serene, she especially enjoys hiking there in early October to witness the vibrant fall colors.

Carter also ventures with her dogs to the Mariaville Falls Preserve, where a moderate trail, cared for by the Frenchman Bay Conservancy, meanders alongside a series of charming waterfalls. It’s her moments spent in nature and with the community that fill Carter with appreciation for life in Maine.