Portage Lake, Maine, is the name of a town and a lake in Aroostook County, about 35 miles from Canada to the east and north. While Portage Lake has a liberal dog policy, requiring that dogs be under the control of owners and not disruptive to other people, the town beach isn't as welcoming.
The scenic view can be distracting, but if you look closely at the sign, it's in all caps, bold, and colored red to read "NO HORSES OR DOGS AT THE BEACH."
The free parking at the beach does have a section of grassy area with picnic tables and grills, where dogs are allowed on a leash or under voice control.
The Portage Lake Campground does allow dogs but with restrictions for swimming near the boat launch area.
Always clean up after your pet immediately. Don't leave waste on the trails or in the woods, and carry bagged waste with you until you find a trash can. If a trash can is full, don't just throw the waste on the ground. Find another option.
The Portage Lake animal control ordinance does require owners to keep their pets from excessively barking or bothering other people.
"No owner or keeper of any dog kept within the legal limits of the Town of Portage Lake shall allow such dog to unnecessarily annoy or disturb any person by continued or repeated barking or other unusual noises."
If you're traveling with your dog, always bring proof of rabies vaccination.
Can-Am International Sled Dog Races
The Can-Am International Sled Dog Races stop in Portage. While there are several spectators stops along the path from Fort Kent to Allagash, pet dogs are not allowed for obvious reasons.
