Explore Bethel, Maine A vibrant mountain village with unparalleled access to outdoor adventure.
Explore Bethel, Maine
A vibrant mountain village with unparalleled access to outdoor adventure.
Bethel isn’t just Gould’s hometown—it’s an integral part of who we are. Surrounded by mountains, rivers, and forests, students have access to an unmatched outdoor lifestyle at our doorstep. Bethel is an incredible place for students to grow up and discover lifelong passions.
Students can ski and snowboard at Sunday River Resort almost every day of the winter and hit the mountain bike trails at Mt. Abram Bike Park. They paddle the Androscoggin River, tee off at the Bethel Inn and Sunday River Championship Golf Courses, and witness the region’s rich geological history in nearby Grafton Notch State Park. Exploring the natural world is a part of everyday life here.
But Bethel is more than outdoor adventures—it’s a thriving village where Gould students actively engage in the local community. World-class attractions, like the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum—home to the largest meteorite collection on Earth—are a short walk away. Students enjoy independent films, concerts, and community gatherings at The Gem Theater, and grab coffee and a pastry between classes at the alumni and parent-owned Gemini Cafe. Eclectic and diverse restaurants, numerous bed and breakfasts, along with fun shops, make Bethel a welcoming and popular destination.
Tucked away from urban centers, Bethel remains connected—90 minutes from Portland, Maine, and just three hours from Boston. This unique balance—being immersed in nature yet accessible—is precisely why our location enables Gould students to thrive.
Bethel, Maine Highlights
Sunday River
The partnership that sets Gould apart. World-class skiing and riding, with the most reliable snow in the East, minutes from campus. Gould’s slopeside Kailey Snow Sports Center is our home base at the bottom of our training venues and dedicated surface lift. Nine peaks of adventure, all winter long.
Gemini Cafe
Alumni- and parent-owned, locally loved. Coffee, bagels, pastries, and community, just steps away. Students enjoy popping in with friends between classes regularly.
Maine Gem & Mineral Museum
Home to the largest collection of lunar and Martian meteorites on Earth, right here in Bethel. A world-class museum with a Maine-sized sense of wonder. Student scientists reap the rewards regularly, collaborating with MM&GM’s world-class geologists in their place-based science classes.
The Gem Theater
Time for movie night! The Gem screens first-run films, hosts live music, spoken-word events, and brings Bethel’s creative community together under one roof. A favorite weekend activity for students looking to grab some popcorn and catch a flick, or even perform at an open mic!
Mt. Abram Bike Park
Mt. Abram Bike Park is the training ground for our competitive enduro mountain bike program; the lifts run exclusively for our team on Wednesdays during the fall season, and it is the venue for multiple competitions each year. Their adrenaline-packed terrain is perfect for advanced riders looking to bank through berms or catch big air. This family-friendly park also has suitable trails for all abilities.
Songo Pond
Just a short drive from campus, Songo Pond is Gould’s launching point for science research and springtime adventure. Students run water quality tests, pilot ROVs, and brave the icy water for the first Polar Bear plunge of the season.