Shirley, Maine: A Hidden Gateway to the Moosehead Lake Region’s Wilderness and Heritage

Welcome to Shirley, Maine

Nestled just south of the iconic Moosehead Lake, Shirley, Maine offers visitors a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience surrounded by rugged wilderness, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. Located in Piscataquis County, Shirley is a small, scenic town that serves as a quiet gateway to the greater Moosehead Lake and North Maine Woods regions, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking unspoiled nature, historic charm, and year-round recreation.

Location & Zip Code

Shirley is located along Route 15, only a few miles south of Greenville and Moosehead Lake. The town’s ZIP code is 04485.

Historical Overview

Incorporated in 1834, Shirley was named after William Shirley, an 18th-century governor of Massachusetts. Early settlers were drawn by the rich forests and rivers, making logging the primary industry. The arrival of the railroad further boosted its role as a supply center for the timber trade and outdoor recreation. Today, Shirley retains its quiet, rural charm while welcoming visitors eager to explore the wilderness of Maine’s north woods.

Top Things to Do in Shirley, Maine

1. Access Moosehead Lake Adventures – Shirley is the perfect base for exploring Moosehead Lake’s boating, fishing, and hiking opportunities.

2. ATV & Snowmobile Trail Riding – Connect to extensive local and ITS trails right from town.

3. Fishing & Canoeing on Shirley Pond & Piscataquis River – Known for trout, bass, and paddling through serene waterways.

4. Wildlife Viewing & Moose Spotting – Explore local backroads and forests for moose, deer, and other wildlife.

5. Hiking at Little Moose Mountain Trail – Nearby, offering breathtaking views of the Moosehead region.

6. Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing in Winter Woods – Quiet trails and snow-covered paths perfect for winter recreation.

7. Visit the Historic Shirley Depot – Remnants of the town’s railroad past.

8. Camping at Shirley Pond & Remote Campsites – Enjoy primitive camping experiences by the water.

9. Photography of Forests, Lakes & Wildlife – Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife in all seasons.

10. Kayaking & Canoeing on Local Brooks & Streams – Peaceful paddling in quiet, lesser-known waterways.

11. Hunting in the North Maine Woods – Popular spot for deer, moose, and upland bird hunting.

12. Stargazing Under Dark Skies – Low light pollution makes Shirley ideal for night sky photography.

13. Attend Local Craft Fairs & Farmers’ Markets (Nearby Greenville) – Explore local goods and crafts.

14. Picnicking at Shirley Pond Boat Launch & Scenic Spots – Relax and take in the view.

15. Explore Logging Roads by Bike or 4x4 Vehicle – Discover Shirley’s rugged and remote landscapes.

Lodging in and Around Shirley, Maine

• Shirley Pond Camps – Rustic lakeside cabins with direct access to Shirley Pond.

• Wilson Pond Camps (Greenville area) – Cozy cabins on nearby Wilson Pond.

• Leisure Life Resort (Greenville) – Full-service lodge with dining and trail access.

• Moose Mountain Inn (Greenville) – A comfortable stay close to Moosehead Lake.

Dining Suggestions Nearby

• Auntie M’s Restaurant (Greenville) – Family-friendly dining with hearty Maine comfort food.

• Stress Free Moose Pub & Café (Greenville) – Popular local pub with craft beers and classic dishes.

• Kokadjo Trading Post & Restaurant (Kokadjo) – Casual eatery and general store north of Shirley.

• Flatlanders BBQ (Dover-Foxcroft) – For barbecue cravings just a scenic drive away.

Shirley by the Numbers (Based on Latest Census Data)

• Population: Approximately 150 residents

• Size: Around 60 square miles

• Density: About 2.5 people per square mile

• Households: Mostly year-round residents with a significant number of seasonal camps

Shirley remains a peaceful, sparsely populated town surrounded by vast tracts of undeveloped wilderness.

Answers to Top Search Queries About Shirley, Maine

1. Where is Shirley located?
In Piscataquis County, just south of Greenville and Moosehead Lake.

2. What is Shirley, Maine, known for?
Quiet lakeside retreats, access to Moosehead Lake, outdoor recreation, and moose watching.

3. Are there places to stay in Shirley?
Yes, including lakeside camps and nearby lodges in Greenville.

4. What activities are popular in Shirley?
Fishing, snowmobiling, canoeing, hunting, and wildlife photography.

5. Where can you fish in Shirley?
Shirley Pond, Piscataquis River, and nearby lakes offer excellent fishing.

6. Are there snowmobile and ATV trails?
Yes, Shirley connects directly to ITS and local trails for both snowmobiling and ATV riding.

7. When is the best time to visit Shirley?
Year-round, with summer for lake activities, fall for foliage and moose spotting, and winter for snowmobiling and ice fishing.

8. How big is Shirley?
Approximately 60 square miles, mostly forest and water with minimal development.

9. What is the history of Shirley?
Incorporated in 1834, historically a logging hub and rail stop, now a quiet outdoor recreation area.

10. Is Shirley a good place to see moose?
Yes, Shirley’s backroads and trails are known for frequent moose sightings, especially at dawn and dusk.

Comprehensive Summary

Shirley, Maine, is a peaceful destination for those seeking quiet outdoor adventures, lakeside serenity, and proximity to the majestic Moosehead Lake region. Whether you’re paddling Shirley Pond, snowmobiling into the vast trail systems, or spotting moose along woodland trails, Shirley offers a genuine slice of Maine wilderness living. Its blend of history, nature, and rustic charm makes it a favorite spot for anglers, hunters, and nature photographers alike. For travelers looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in Maine’s great outdoors, Shirley is the perfect retreat.