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Sunset

Golden Hour at the Library Steps

Grab a coffee and watch the sun dip behind the Kennebec River valley from the top of the hill.

Best time: 17:54About 45 min

Timeline

  1. 16:24

    Mary Low Coffeehouse

    Start at Mary Low Coffeehouse for a warm drink and a quiet moment to settle in before the walk.

  2. 16:54

    Colby College Campus

    Walk up to the Colby College Campus. Head straight for the Miller Library. The climb is worth it for the Neo-Georgian architecture and the tree-studded grounds.

  3. 17:39

    Colby College Campus

    Position yourself on the steps of Miller Library. This is the vantage point that stretches across the Kennebec River valley, perfectly aligned for the western sunset.

  4. 17:54

    Colby College Campus

    Watch the sun set toward the WSW at 17:54. The golden light hits the library steps just before the sun dips below the horizon.

Local tip

The library tower is only open at specific times, so stick to the steps for the most reliable view. If you are visiting in January, sunset is much earlier at 16:24, so adjust your coffee start time accordingly.

Check before you go

  • Mary Low Coffeehouse is open Mo-Fr 08:00-17:00 and Su 10:00-16:00. Ensure you arrive before closing if you plan to stay inside.
  • The Colby College Campus is open for strolling, but check if the library tower is open if you want an elevated view.

Worth knowing

  • Mary Low Coffeehouse is open at 16:24 only on Mo, Tu, We, Th, Fr

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Waterville (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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