maine fall foliage trips

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8 Beautiful Stops On A Maine Fall Foliage Road Trip

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Maine is known for its scenic coastline, lighthouses, and the harvesting of lobster. What many people forget are the state’s inland forests and 542,629 acres of state and national parks. In fact, some of New England’s most vibrant fall foliage can be found in the mountains of Western Maine.

The parks and forests provide many fall foliage vistas. The best time to view is the third week of September through the first week of October.

This road trip itinerary takes you through many small towns and forests, and even to a lighthouse or two. So buckle up and get ready to explore Maine and see some of the most picturesque fall foliage you can imagine.

We will begin on Maine’s Coastal Highway. Did you know Maine has 3,478 miles of coastline? We will cover a mere portion of it. We will be traveling along Old Route 1 from Portland, Maine, to Bar Harbor and then head west.

Robin O’Neal Smith

1. Portland

We start our journey in Portland . There is much to see and do here. The city provides panoramic views of Casco Bay and its islands. You will find many small shops, galleries, and museums. It is a major foodie city; you will have your pick of over 600 restaurants . We enjoyed pizza at the Portland Pie Company .

Oh, and when in Portland, be sure to try some duck-fat fries. French fries cooked in duck fat.

Portland is home to several lighthouses. If you only have time to see one thing while in Portland, make it the Portland Head Light . Built when George Washington was president, the Head Light has guided ships safely into the harbor for centuries.

The Headlight is beautiful, and it is the most photographed lighthouse in America. When I visited, I was able to view it from both land and from a boat.

I recommend taking the Portland Fire Engine Tour while you are in Portland. You’ll be escorted around the city to see all the highlights on the back of an antique fire truck. Aside from a high step to get on the truck (they provide a little step stool), it is a comfortable ride during which you’ll get lots of information about the city.

You could also take a boat tour from the shore. I enjoyed this since it permitted us to see the city and both the Portland Head Light and the Ram Island Ledge Light from the water.

Plan to stay in Portland for a couple of hours, a night, or even several days. You will find plenty to occupy your time. If spending the night, I recommend the Chadwick Bed and Breakfast , or, if you prefer a hotel, stay at the Hilton Garden Inn right on the waterfront.

2. Freeport

When you leave Portland, head north on Old Route 1 for one of New England’s most scenic coastal drives. You will go through several small towns and places you could stop, visit, and take pictures of seaside mansions and the fall foliage on the coastline against the shimmering water.

Stop in Freeport for a quick visit to the L.L.Bean Factory and Store . You can’t miss the big boot out front. There are a variety of shopping outlets in Freeport should you decide to spend additional time.

3. Boothbay Harbor

Continue on Old Route 1 and stop in Boothbay Harbor for the rest of the day. Once a fishing village, Boothbay Harbor has evolved into a quaint summer boating resort. It is a bit quieter in the fall but still charming to visit. Aside from the fall foliage, there is a good chance you might see seals and whales right off the shore, among the small islands.

You can grab a late-season lobster roll at any of the little restaurants.

Spend the afternoon visiting the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens . The gardens include impressive stonework, spectacular flowers, and majestic waterfalls on 250 acres.

Enjoy an evening meal on the water at the Boathouse Bistro and spend the night at the Spruce Point Inn .

Sean Pavone / Shutterstock

4. Pemaquid Point

Follow Old Route 1 and then turn off on Rt. 130 to Pemaquid Point for a glimpse of the famous lighthouse built in 1827. If the lighthouse looks familiar, it could be because it is the one featured on the Maine U.S. quarter.

The lighthouse is still in operation. Visit the Fishermen’s Museum on the premise. Plan to spend one to two hours at this location. Then, it’s on to Camden, Maine , where we will spend the rest of the day.

In this quaint town, you can enjoy leaf peeping in Merryspring , a 66-acre nature center and park. Merryspring is mostly flat and has nearly 4 miles of trails from which you can enjoy its woods and meadows.

Or enjoy a fall sail on the Schooner Surprise . You get a whole different perspective when on the water looking back at the shore. There are also whale- and puffin-watching tours.

Another option is to visit Camden Hills State Park and get a little exercise hiking the nature trails threaded throughout the 5,000-acre refuge. Most of the trails are well-maintained. For the best view in the park, climb atop Mount Battie for a panoramic view of Penobscot Bay, Camden, and the surrounding islands. If the fog has lifted, you can even see Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park from this scenic vista. Be aware that this involves a more strenuous climb.

Enjoy a sandwich and a drink for dinner at Sea Dog Brewing Co. and spend the night at the Whitehall in Camden.

6. Acadia National Park

It is about a 2-hour drive to Acadia National Park , which lies 70 miles northeast of Camden. The 47,000-acre park on Mount Desert Island is a leaf peeper’s paradise. With 2 million-plus visitors per year, Acadia is one of the nation’s most visited national parks.

The Park Loop Road is 27 miles of scenic vistas along which you can view and photograph the vibrant foliage. Drive up the 3.5-mile narrow access road to Cadillac Mountain to experience the highest point on the East Coast.

For an extra treat, ride through Acadia in a carriage to view the fall foliage. If enjoying the park on foot, note that some of the areas along the coast are wet and rocky. Proper footwear and good balance are required.

After your day in Acadia, head back to the harbor area. Bar Harbor has all kinds of shops and restaurants. I highly recommend eating at the Bar Harbor Route 66 Restaurant . If you like lobster rolls, they have them along with a dozen other sandwiches. While the food is fantastic, visit for the memories of toys and things of the past. This place is filled with memorabilia.

Spend the night at the Balance Rock Inn in Bar Harbor, or check out our favorite hotels in Bar Harbor, Maine.

You will be crossing the state of Maine today via route Maine 3 West to Bethel. It is a three-and-a-half-hour drive, so we will drive about halfway and stop in the state capital, Augusta, for lunch and some sightseeing, and then off again.

Augusta has every chain restaurant you can imagine, but a local option is the Cushnoc Brewing Co . for a sandwich and drink.

The top attraction in Augusta is the Maine State Museum . Visit if you desire to spend a bit more time in the capital. Discover the best things about Maine in this four-floor museum full of world-class exhibits.

From Augusta, you have about a two-hour drive to Bethel. You will begin on I-95 and then turn north on Maine 26. This is a very scenic drive, and you will enjoy Mother Nature’s foliage masterpiece as you drive. Be on the watch for moose in this area.

You will begin driving up into the White Mountains, and the view will continue to be spectacular with vibrant-colored leaves.

High in the hills, the mountain village of Bethel provides exceptional fall foliage views. In Bethel, the fall splendor is best enjoyed on foot. Walk along the Androscoggin River Recreation Trail or hit the water on the river trail and view the leaves by kayak.

There are multiple hiking trails in the surrounding areas of the Appalachian Trail, White Mountain National Forest, and Grafton Notch State Park. Spend a day — or multiple days — in the area. Trails around Bethel have varying levels of difficulty.

Our choice for spending the night — or several nights — in Bethel is The Bethel Inn Resort . There is a dining room onsite and a variety of other dining choices within walking distance.

We hope you enjoy this most scenic Maine fall foliage road trip. Maine has spectacular scenery year round, but in autumn, when the leaves are changing, the view is extraordinary. For more specific route details, visit our Most Scenic Maine Fall Foliage Road Trip Google map .

Related Reading:

• The Most Scenic New England Fall Foliage Road Trip
• 11 Best Fall Foliage Getaways In New England
• 5 Beautiful Stops On The Perfect Coastal Maine Road Trip

Robin O’Neal Smith is a freelance and travel writer. A young baby boomer, Robin and her husband have traveled throughout North America, many of the Caribbean Islands, and Europe. She loves cruising and inspiring others to live their dreams of travel. Follow her travels on her personal site where she discusses travel, food, and more!

Maine Fall Foliage Guide

From the best time for peak color to the perfect foliage towns and road trips, our Maine fall foliage guide will help you plan this year’s great autumn escape.

By Yankee Magazine

Oct 05 2022

Fall foliage comes to Camden, Maine.

Planning a trip to Maine this year for some autumn color and fun? Our Maine fall foliage guide is here to help. Learn the best time to see the leaves change color, discover our favorite foliage towns and stunning scenic routes, and read up on a few fantastic fall attractions.

Maine Fall Foliage | Best Time to Visit

While the timing is slightly different every year, the best Maine fall colors reliably move from north to south, starting in mid-to-late September and extending through mid-October.

Some of our favorite regions in Maine for enjoying fall color are Baxter State Park during early-peak (late September to early October) and Bar Harbor during middle-peak (end of September to mid-October). That said, you’ll find fantastic pockets of color in every corner of the state throughout the season.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

Learn more about finding peak color in New England in the Yankee feature “Peak Perfection.”

Best Maine Fall Foliage Towns

Maine’s mountain gem boasts scenic drives through Evans Notch and a covered-bridge driving tour of the area. On fall weekends, Sunday River Ski Resort’s “ chondola ” in nearby Newry whisks visitors 1,000 feet up North Peak to the ultimate picnic ground. Make sure to check out Bethel’s annual Harvestfest and Chowdah Cookoff , where local restaurants compete for bragging rights.

The view from the forested slopes of Mount Battie straight down to the forest of masts in Camden Harbor is one of the most dramatic in New England and is especially phenomenal in fall. If you prefer to wander among the trees, hike nearby Mount Megunticook or Bald Rock Mountain. 

3. Rangeley

The lakes of Maine’s western mountains hold up a succession of mirrors to some of the state’s best fall foliage. The must-stop viewpoint in the area is at a small turnout on Route 17, aptly named Height of Land , from which a panorama of five lakes and countless forested mountains stretches in all directions.

4. Blue Hill

In the fall, Maine’s expansive blueberry barrens light up red in a display of foliage every bit as gorgeous as anything on the trees. Wander through the blueberry field at the bottom of the Hayes Trail and then make the short trek up Blue Hill Mountain to enjoy sweeping views of the bay. Or, gather picnic supplies in town and sit by the water, where you can admire trees along bobbing along with the buoys in the surf.

Best Maine Fall Foliage Drives

Acadia park loop road.

This 27-mile road offers a grand tour of the forests, mountains, and coastline of Acadia National Park . The route begins on the northern side of Mount Desert Island, just south of Bar Harbor off of Route 3. Please note that the loop requires an entrance fee, paid at the station near Sand Beach.

Along the Sheepscot River

With ample options for stopping, shopping, and photo-opping, this route winds alongside the Sheepscot River and through increasingly rural landscapes. The route takes approximately an hour to travel from start to finish (but only if you can resist stopping to admire the fall colors along the way).

From Wiscasset, take ME 218 North to Whitefield. Bear left on ME 194 West; then an immediate right (north) on Townhouse Road to ME 126. Bear right on ME 126 East for 1 mile; then bear right on East River Road (ME 218 South). Bear left on ME 194 East; then, where 194 makes a sharp right, bear left on Hollywood Boulevard instead. Either ME 194 South or Hollywood Boulevard will get you to Head Tide Village; from there bear left on ME 218 South back to Wiscasset.

Learn more about the Sheepscot foliage drive in the Yankee feature “Slow Foliage Drives Through Fall Color,”  and get even more New England foliage road trip ideas in the feature about our ultimate foliage road trip .

Best Maine Fall Attractions

Maine fall foliage cruises.

While many tourists amass on the mountains when fall hits, a few take advantage of the excellent views offered down by the water. This season, float through autumnal hot spots and get a new perspective on the season by seeing Maine fall foliage by boat. Get our recommendations on the best foliage cruises in Bar Harbor, Portland, Damariscotta, and more in our guide to  fall foliage from the water .

Snug Harbor Farm

You don’t have to be a gardener to appreciate this botanical beauty. A  “ quick peek ” at Snug Harbor Farm, located along Route 9 in Kennebunk, could easily turn into a whole afternoon. Wander through the five greenhouses and admire the nursery, barn, pastures, growing fields, and resident animals, including ponies and peacocks. Throughout the fall season, the farm hosts plant workshops on topics from succulents to floral foraging.

Read more about Snug Harbor Farm in our article on why it’s one of the most magical places in Maine .

Pick-Your-Own Apples

Nothing says autumn like biting into a crisp apple — especially one you’ve just picked yourself. Maine offers a number of excellent apple orchards, including Cayford Orchards in Skowhegan, which has been operating for six generations. We also love Super Chilly Farm in Palermo, whose owner John Bunker has spent four decades tracking down rare and unusual apple varieties.

Looking for more fall fun? Discover our picks for the best five pumpkin festivals in New England  and the  best corn mazes in New England .

What Maine fall foliage picks would you add to the list? Let us know!

More Foliage Guides: New Hampshire Fall Foliage Guide Vermont Fall Foliage Guide

More new england fall foliage: guide to new england fall foliage train tours 10 places to visit in new england in fall 5 favorite new england fall foliage tours.

Yankee Magazine

A Full Guide To Maine's Brilliant Fall Foliage (& Where To See It)

Maine is a paradise for fall foliage enthusiasts! Embark on an unforgettable journey through its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant autumn colors.

• Fall foliage in Maine is best seen from late September to late October, with colors changing from north to south.
• Northern Maine offers peak colors on the last week of September, while southern and coastal Maine experiences peak colors in mid to late October.
• Towns like Camden, Blue Hill, Bethel, and Rockwood provide excellent opportunities for leaf-peeping and outdoor activities amidst stunning fall scenery.

The long-awaited season is finally here, and leaf peepers cannot be more excited. Fall is a chance to spend time outside, checking the beautiful colors the leaves create. It is also the perfect season for leaf peeping in Maine. With a wide range of wilderness, the state offers unlimited spots to see and take pictures of the bright oranges, reds, and gold in the fall.

Colors will emerge and peak at almost the same time in most parts of the state, as per the fall foliage map. But some spots may get colors a week earlier or a week later. For those seeking leaf-peeping opportunities, this guide to fall foliage in Maine gives readers an idea of where and when to check out the colors.

Related: Which New England State Should You Travel To For Leaf Peeping this Fall?

Maine Weather Prediction In The Fall

Predicting when the leaves will turn is difficult since the dependent factor is the weather. For the leaves to change color, the summer should be wet, followed by cool nights and dry, sunny days. However, the weather shouldn’t be too dry as the leaves will fall before they change their color.

• Maine’s leaves usually start changing at the end of September into early October.

Then, they change fully in mid-October and remain that way till the end of the month. Summer in this state was mostly wet in 2023. So, it’s likely that fall foliage will protrude earlier than in previous years. The coastal area was mainly affected by this weather.

Thus, individuals planning a fall foliage tour should consider this. Colors usually change from the north to the south, and some areas last longer than others.

When And Where To Find Maine’s Fall Foliage

As mentioned, leaves in this state start changing from lush green to autumn colors. The change begins in the northern part, heading south. It starts from Fort Kent, the northern village in the North Maine Woods, and works towards lakes, mountains, and other areas to Kittery, Maine's oldest town and modern seaside haven .

The best time to visit Maine for fall foliage is the end of September after Columbus Day or early October just when the peak colors have emerged. Going for a fall foliage road trip helps one maximize their fall foliage adventure. Here are areas to find fall foliage in this state:

• Northern Maine: Peak colors tend to be on the last week of September to October’s first week. Areas to visit include Rockwood, Presque Isle’s Aroostook State Park, and Mt. Katahdin.
• Eastern Maine: Visit here in the second and third weeks of October. Places to visit include Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, Baxter State Park, and Penobscot Bay.
• Central Maine: Peak colors appear in the 2nd week of October going to the third week. Check out the Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway, Fryeburg, and Peaks Kenny State Park.
• Western Maine: This is the lakeside and receives fall colors in October’s second week. Tour Rangeley Lakes, Grafton Notch State Park, Moosehead Lake, and Mt. Blue State Park.
• Southern and Coastal Maine: The last parts to receive peak color, which appears in mid to end of October. Check out Coastal Maine Botanical Garden, Kennebunkport, and Camden Hills State Park.

Related: 10 Super Cheap New England Road Trips Just In Time For Fall

Best Fall Foliage Towns In Maine

No guide to fall foliage in Maine would be complete without a specific list of towns to traipse to for leaf-peeping. These are the best towns in Maine for spotting fall foliage.

Camden is considered Maine’s jewel of the coast. But, it offers plenty of things to do on land, just like at the sea. Those looking for fall foliage can start by climbing Mount Battie, which has forested slopes.

But for those who don’t want to wander around trees, hike Bald Rock Mountain or Mount Megunticook. Don’t forget to grab a crispy cider donut at Boynton-McKay Food Co!

Blue Hill is a small village between Blue Hill Mountain and Blue Hill Harbor. It has recently become a great destination for those who want a scenic escape. Hiking the Osgood Trail allows individuals to enjoy the fall colors of the Blue Hill’s summit.

Hayes Trail bottom also offers stunning views of blueberry barrens, which sometimes are more vibrant than even the trees in the fall.

Found around six miles from the famous Sunday River Ski Resort, this beautiful town allows visitors to access the Grafton Notch State Park. In this park, tourists can see stunning gorges, waterfalls, and fall colors that make the drive/walk scenic.

For adventurous tourists, hike the Appalachian Trail to experience rewarding views of the fall colors.

Related: Here's What Makes Bethel, Maine Such A Magical Winter Destination

Rockwood is an ideal place for checking out Maine’s natural wonders. It is located on the Moosehead’s Lake shores, which is surrounded by trees that reflect on the water, creating a breathtaking scenery.

Fall Foliage Drives To Take In Maine

For those who want a wholesome experience of peak colors, there are many scenic road trips one can take in the fall in Maine . The Acadia Park Loop Road offers a tour of forests, mountains, and Acadia’s National Park coastline. It starts on Mount Desert Island. An entrance fee is required upon arrival.

Driving along the Sheepscot River is also a chance to stop and marvel at Maine’s fall colors.

Bar Harbor Acadia

Greater Portland

Northern Maine

South Coast

Western Lakes Mountains

Fall foliage in maine 2024, a vacationland of color and wonder.

All parts of Maine , especially the Western Lakes and Mountains , present a colorful fall foliage showcase. In this region, Sunday River ski area in Newry, ME and Sugarloaf ski area in Carrabassett Valley, ME offer foliage viewing from above on gondolas and luxury chair lifts. The Songo River Queen offers scenic foliage cruises on Long Lake . Foliage will be great at the fabulous Acadia National Park ; the nearby town of Bar Harbor is fun to explore. Another way to see Maine foliage is from a windjammer sailing ship cruise.

Essential Information :

• Foliage Map (State of Maine)
• Maine State Map
• Coastal fall foliage cruises courtesy of the Maine Windjammers (see individual boats' websites for details)
• Pick Your Own Farms : Fresh blueberries, apples and more!
• Great Things to Do in Maine

Foliage Driving Routes in Maine

Acadia national park, bar harbor & down east me, bold coast national scenic byway – 125 miles.

Points of Interest:

• West Quoddy Head Lighthouse in Lubec – The first place where the dawn’s early light touches down on the United States is here, in Lubec, and it is greeted daily by the candy-striped lighthouse. The lighthouse and a Visitors Center in the lighthouse keeper’s house are open to the public Memorial Day through Labor Day. The center has neat exhibits on lighthouses and local marine life.
• Old Sow tidal whirlpool in Eastport -- Off the southwestern shore of Deer Island, New Brunswick, and off the northeast shore of Moose Island, Eastport. The largest tidal whirlpool in the Western Hemisphere and one of five significant tidal whirlpools in the world. Map .
• Roosevelt Campobello International Park  – Campobello, New Brunswick, Canada. Historic cottage, summer home of 32nd President, flower gardens, nature area. Accessible from Lubec via the Roosevelt International Bridge. (Please have correct travel documentation to enter Canada and return).

Castine and Penobscot Bay Loop --- 79 miles

• Maine Maritime Academy and home of the Training Ship State of Maine , Castine . 800-227-8465
• Dice (Dyce) Head Light , mouth of the Penobscot River, Castine .
• Blue Hill Peninsula . Peninsula towns are Blue Hill, Brooklin, Brooksville, Castine, Penobscot and Sedgwick. Blue Hill is the gateway to Deer Isle and Stonington, a landscape of blueberry barrens and the sea. Entertainments range from a day on the water to live music, gallery tours, and shopping.
• Ellsworth – Woodlawn Museum , 207-667-8671. This is a historic house museum, with formal gardens, a park and walking trails.

Acadia National Park Loop Road --- 27 miles

• Whale-watch cruises from Bar Harbor .
• Acadia National Park Tours , Bar Harbor . 207-288-0300
• Oceanarium & Lobster Hatchery , Bar Harbor . 207-288-5005
• Diver Ed's Dive-In Theater , Bar Harbor (open through Columbus Day) . 207-288-3483.
• Northeast Harbor on Mount Desert Island is called the quiet side by contrast with bustling Bar Harbor. Enjoy the small boutiques, galleries, and restaurants. The harbor is two blocks off Main Street.
• Seal Harbor is a secluded harbor with a 19th-century rural village, shoreline, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Two great places to explore here are Long Pond and Stanley Brook.
• Thunder Hole is a chasm into which ocean waves crash with great booms and splashes. On the southwest corner of the Park Loop Road, about four miles south of Bar Harbor.

Western Lakes/Mountains

Rangeley lakes scenic byway loop --- 35 miles.

• At Height Of Land you can see hundreds of miles of lakes, mountains and forests. You can also see the White Mountain chain in neighboring New Hampshire. Height of Land is often considered to be the most spectacular overlook in northern New England.
• The town of Oquossoc is surrounded by Mooselookmeguntic Lake . You can get to the lake from the city and rent boating and fishing supplies there.
• The Maine Forestry Museum , Rangeley . 207-864-3939. This museum displays equipment, artifacts, photos, and historic tape recordings of people in the logging profession. Leaving Oquossoc, take Route 16 east for about 10 miles.

Western Maine Ski Mountain Route --- 152 miles

• Mount Blue State Park , off Route 156, Weld . 207-585-2261. This park is open year-round for hiking, trail riding, biking, swimming and picnicking; snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating.
• Rangeley Lake State Park , Rangeley . 207-624-6080. Open May 1 to October 1.
• Kennebec-Chaudiere Heritage Trail , Along the Kennebec River, Farmington . 207-778-3885.
• Backstrap Bar & Grill at 133-163 ME-16 in Stratton . Opened in mid-2018, this well-liked eatery serves new American food and lots of it, with great service. Owner is head chef. Enjoy steaks, fish and chips, specialty pizzas, good wine list and full bar. Serves lunch, dinner and drinks, Take-out. Hours, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; open daily except Wednesday and Thursday. 207-246-0102.
• Orange Cat Café at 329 Main Street in Kingfield serves basic, hearty breakfast and lunches every day. Classic breakfast menu and lunch is filling sops, salads and sandwiches. There is a kids menu. Lots and lots of homemade pastries and cakes (this is a specialty of the café’s catering business). You will feel filled up and healthy when you check out. Open daily, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Southwestern Maine Loop -- 66 miles

• Doles Orchard , 187 Doles Ridge Road, Limington . 207-793-4409. The farm has pick-your-own fruits from strawberries in spring through apples in the fall. There is a bakery, and you can buy gifts at the Doles Orchard Box Shop, a wood shop focusing on gift boxes and totes enhanced with laser-carved designs.
• Cornish Trading Company in Cornish . This 19th-century Masonic building is filled with antiques: country and decorative furniture and accessories, garden and architectural elements; folk art, textiles, jewelry, furnishings for camp and cottage. Open April through November. 207-625-8387.
• Limerick is a delightful small town of good dining and antique shopping. Greenwood Herbals is a healing and teaching center, natural apothecary, labyrinth and gardens. Come learn about plant medicine and harvesting from nature and to shop for medicinal teas, extracts, dry herbs, salves, and creams. 207-793-3553.
• Runway Restaurant at 13 Airport Drive in Limington . This small gem is located at the Limington Harmon Airport and it’s a very popular place. Early breakfast? You bet. Watch for a sign for "airport." The atmosphere is described as hipster but without pretension. Excellent breakfast with lots of gluten-free choices (along with homemade biscuits). Lunch is pizza with a perfect crust and hearty sandwiches. Open daily 5 a.m.-2 p.m.

Western Maine Fyeburg-Bethel Loop -- 120 miles

• Fryeburg Main Street Historic District , Main Street from Portland Street to about Swans Falls Road, Fryeburg .
• Scottish & Irish Merchant , Bethel . 877-607-7787.
• Steam Mill Antiques in Bethel is a country antique shop located in a large, 1820 farmhouse and barn. The property alone is fun to visit.

The Oxford House Inn in Fryeburg offers a charming break for the stomach and the senses during your tour of the region, its gourmet restaurant, and a granite-walled pub offer sunset mountain views and exceptional food directed by the owner and chef, trained at the Culinary Institute of America.

Mid Coast Region

Coastal route --- 141 miles.

• Pemaquid Point and Lighthouse , Bristol . 207-677-3266. Try not to miss a visit to this wonderfully beautiful place. The lighthouse overlooks a shield of flat rocks leading to the water. Stunning. Gift shop, too.
• Camden Hills State Park and Mount Battie , 280 Belfast Road, Camden . Sweeping views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay. 207-236-0849
• State of Maine Cheese Company/Maine Made Products Center , 461 Commercial Street / Route 1, Rockport . 800-762-8895.
• Claws , at 743 Main Street in Rockland is a traditional lobster shack – all waterside outdoor seating and no table service. Seafood is fresh, fresh, fresh. Lobster roll is served either cold with a touch of mayo or hot with butter. Beer and wine are on the menu. It is a short drive to Rockland's artsy downtown. Open daily, 11 a.m.-9 p.m. 207-596-5600.

Northern Maine Region

Belgrade drive --- 120 miles.

• Augusta. The state capital and gateway to the region, Augusta has an impressive State House (1829) with a 180-foot dome, designed by architect Charles Bullfinch. The Maine State Museum describes 12,000 years of Maine life through exhibits and 2,000 artifacts. A nice farmers market operated on Tuesdays, May through November.
• Old Fort Western . This is a 1754 National Historic Landmark fort, store and house on the Kennebec River in Augusta. Interesting for anyone curious about the early settlements of Europeans and especially fun for kids. 207-626-2385.

Katahdin Loop-- 210 miles

• Moosehead Lake area -- 888-876-2778
• Moxie Gore Township – Moxie Falls , Lake Moxie Road off Route 201
• Jackman – Moose watching

The Northern Tour --- 214 miles

This scenic trip features long stretches of unpopulated territory between towns. The route begins north of Bangor and ventures into the region known for growing Maine potatoes.

• Bangor – Hollywood Slots at Bangor , 500 Main Street, 877-779-7771. Slot machines, silmulcast racing, dining, entertainment.
• Houlton, Duty Free Americas , 4 Airport Road and 1-95, 207-532-6540. Discounted consumer goods of all kinds: liquor, watches, and more.

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The 12 Best Places to See Fall Foliage in Maine

Peep the colorful leaves from Bethel to Bar Harbor and beyond.

Noppawat Tom Charoensinphon/Getty Images

As New England’s largest state, Maine is almost as big as the rest of the region put together. And with the lowest population density among them, that means the state has large swaths of woodland that turn gold, orange, and crimson come autumn. Northern Maine is the first region of New England to see the leaves change. Peak fall foliage occurs in late September and early October in the north, while central and southern Maine hit their peak in mid- to late October, respectively.

Though Vermont and New Hampshire draw more tourists from New York and Boston, Maine offers a special something to those who make the trip: the dramatic contrast of rock and sea and foliage. Many state and national parks offer guided tours geared toward leaf peepers, and outdoor outfitters across Maine provide different ways to interact with nature. At the end of the day, there will be lobster and cold beer waiting for you.

Time to start planning your fall foliage vacation in one of these Maine destinations.

A former Gilded Age hot spot, Bar Harbor is a charming seaside village on Mount Desert Island. Here, you can see bright arboreal colors by kayaking along the shoreline in Frenchman Bay and hiking the trails of neighboring Acadia National Park . The park provides opportunities to be the first in the U.S. to see the sunrise (from Cadillac Mountain), take a ride by bike or horse along the beautifully groomed carriage roads, and drive a stunning park loop road to leaf peep from mid-September to mid-October.

Bar Harbor has a range of accommodations to turn a day trip into a weekend of autumnal activities. Stay at the historic Bar Harbor Inn & Spa for the best bay views in town, or just have a drink there and stay at the Acacia House Inn for fewer frills, cozy rooms, and delicious breakfasts.

Baxter State Park

Baxter State Park contains more than 200,000 acres of wilderness and the state’s highest peak, Mount Katahdin. You might even get a moose sighting while you're out admiring the leaves. There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails, with routes to suit explorers of all skill levels, and the chance to rent a canoe or kayak for just $1 per hour offers yet another way to see the fall foliage all around you.

Bring your sleeping bag when visiting Baxter State Park in the fall. All campgrounds are open through peak foliage season, which runs from late September to early October. South Branch Pond Campground is one of the prettiest of the bunch. It offers tent sites, lean-tos, and a bunkhouse.

Only about six miles from the popular Sunday River Ski Resort, Bethel offers visitors easy access to Grafton Notch State Park and a host of delicious restaurants. In the park, there are walks to Screw Auger Falls, Gulf Hagas (also known as the “Grand Canyon of the East”), Mother Walker Falls, and Moose Cave. Between Bethel and Grafton Notch, check out the Instagram-worthy Sunday River Covered Bridge. Pick up sandwiches from the Good Food Store to take to the park, then relax with a Maine-brewed beer and elevated pub grub at Butcher Burger upon your return.

Bethel is rich in bed-and-breakfasts, like Holidae House and Bethel Hill Bed and Breakfast . For a true hotel feel, though — plus golf course access — book a stay at The Bethel Resort & Suites , within walking distance of downtown.

Tucked between Blue Hill Harbor and Blue Hill Mountain, this seaside village and former shipbuilding center is now a great destination for a quiet, scenic escape. Hike the easy one-mile Osgood Trail to take in the autumnal splendor from the summit of Blue Hill, but go early to avoid crowds of leaf peepers. At the bottom of the Hayes Trail, you'll also get a colorful view of the blueberry barrens, which are sometimes even more vibrant than trees in the fall.

Speaking of blueberries: Blue Hill Inn serves up killer Maine blueberry pancakes along with afternoon treats and evening hors d’oeuvres in the garden. For dinner, head downtown to Arborvine , which offers elegant dishes highlighting locally sourced seafood in a farmhouse setting.

With its harbor full of sailboats, this “Jewel of the Coast” has plenty to do on land and at sea. Climb Mount Battie for a stupendous view of the coast (and the surrounding leaves), or try a boat tour ( Schooner Surprise and Schooner Olad are both good options) to see the mountain from the water. Camden has great seafood-centric eating — try Natalie’s at Camden Harbour Inn for an elegant dinner or Fresh and Co for a more casual feel.

The Hartstone Inn and Hideaway is a superb bed-and-breakfast (and restaurant) in a historic Victorian mansion for overnight visits to Camden. Alternatively, the Lord Camden Inn boasts views of the water in addition to a spa and an art gallery.

A major hub for whitewater rafting, The Forks is the perfect spot for those who want to see the leaves change with a paddle in hand. Local outfitters guide raft trips for all skill levels, but for the most adventurous, the Upper Kennebec Gorge has up to class IV rapids. Hikers should check out nearby Moxie Falls, one of the state’s highest waterfalls, dropping from a height of almost 90 feet. However you choose to admire the foliage, you'll likely work up a thirst for a cold beverage. In that case, consider ending the day at Kennebec River Brewery .

The excellent Inn by the River provides the most conventional lodging in The Forks, but two boating companies — Three Rivers Whitewater and Northern Outdoors — provide several options for accommodations.

On the shores of Moosehead Lake, Rockwood is the perfect base to visit the area’s natural wonders. The vividly hued trees lining the lake reflect in the water, making for a postcard-worthy scene. Trout, bass, and salmon in the lake and Kennebec River make Rockwood an angler's dream.

Mount Kineo Golf Course provides a shuttle from Rockwood to Mount Kineo for golfers and hikers alike. Hikers will enjoy the beginner-friendly Bridle Trail, which intersects with the more challenging Indian Trail that leads to Mount Kineo's summit.

Back at the lake, The Birches Resort was first built as a hunting and fishing lodge in the 1930s and retains all its L.L.Bean-esque charm. Maynard’s is an equally rustic option, with rocking chairs on a wraparound porch decorated with antlers.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is where the Bush family summers — whatever your politics are, you can appreciate their good taste in Maine travel. The coastal town is full of beautiful walks, gorgeous architecture, and delicious food. When the leaves turn, mid- to late October, fall foliage is everywhere you look: lining the banks of the Kennebunk River and framing the picturesque New England mansions. Within a five-mile drive of downtown, the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge and Wells Reserve at Laudholm offer trails that immerse you in nature.

While you're in Kennebunkport, take advantage of the season's lobster harvest at Nunan’s Lobster Hut , a classic Maine seafood shack. If you want to stay awhile, hang your hat at one of the four historic seafarers' mansions that make up the Kennebunkport Captains Collection .

Lubec is the easternmost municipality in the United States. Use it as a jumping-off point for Quoddy Head State Park about six miles away. The park is home to an especially photogenic red-and-white candy-striped lighthouse. There are several short trails on which to admire the foliage, typically at its peak the last week of September and first week of October.

Back in town, treat yourself to a post-hike beer in the taproom of Lubec Brewing Company and settle in at Peacock House Bed & Breakfast for the night. The B&B is a house built in 1860 by a British sea captain for his bride.

Monhegan Island

Ten miles from the mainland, this tiny island (roughly one square mile) feels both intimate and expansive. There are no paved roads or cars, so you'll travel the island on foot via 12 miles of trails. The paths skirt the coast and lead you past the many studios that have earned Monhegan its reputation as an artists' colony. Stroll by the charming Monhegan Lighthouse and check out the tiny Monhegan Museum of Art and History housed inside. Stay atop Monhegan Harbor at The Island Inn , offering 32 rooms and suites in a picture-perfect 1816 shingle-style building.

The heart of the Rangeley Lakes region, the town of Rangeley is about 30 miles east of the New Hampshire border. Get on the water with Rangeley Region Lake Cruises and Kayaking or out on the trails of nearby Bald and Saddleback mountains. The Small Falls waterfall and Height of Land overlook are both accessible by car and provide gorgeous, foliage-filled views from high and low. Downtown, the taxidermy- and plaid-decorated Rangeley Inn and Tavern has been accommodating Rangeley visitors for more than a century.

Make your way to Rockland in the last couple weeks of October to see foliage in Midcoast Maine. You can catch pops of color along Penobscot Bay from the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse and go for hikes during peak foliage at Camden Hills State Park , less than 10 miles away.

As you might predict based on its annual summer Maine Lobster Festival, Rockland is also a great place to eat. Claws has Maine’s famous crustacean down pat, while the Home Kitchen Café serves up a memorable breakfast. And with cultural institutions like the Farnsworth Art Museum (not to mention the Maine Lighthouse Museum ), there’s a lot more to do besides leaf peeping.

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Vacation planner, maine’s fall foliage and festivals are second to none.

With our lively  harvest festivals , sparkling clear weather, and brilliant display of foliage, fall is a wonderful time to visit Maine. Our vivid maples and oaks create a dramatic backdrop, whether you want to hike the North Woods , take a bike ride around Peaks Island, or play golf at one of the state’s many country clubs. Fall also brings food and wine celebrations like the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta, the Acadia Oktoberfest and the Great Maine Apple Day in Unity. The Cumberland County Fair and the Fryeburg Fair are a few of Maine’s many fall agricultural fairs.

Colorful farmers’ markets and produce stands brim with pumpkins and gourds. Apple orchards and pumpkin patches invite you to “pick your own.” Birders can spy migrating hawks, warblers and shorebirds. Fall is also the peak season for Maine lobster.

Plan a Leaf Peeping Trip in Maine

There is no better place to be for fall leaf peeping than in Maine. The melting of hues of leaves from green, to yellow, to burnt orange and crimson begins as early as mid-September in Fort Kent in northern Maine, and as late as Halloween in Kittery, at Maine's southern tip. The vibrant process begins in August as the warm weather wanes and Maine's 57 species of broadleaved trees begin preparing for autumn. Instead of slipping quietly into hibernation, nature trumpets the bright oranges and yellows of sugar maples, the purples of white ash, the scarlet of red and mountain maples, and the rich, earthy browns of black and white oak. Few sights satisfy the soul like the brilliant colors splashed across Maine's forests each autumn.

In September and October, the Maine Department of Conservation offers weekly reports on foliage conditions throughout the state  on its website . In addition, the Maine Office of Tourism provides a toll-free foliage hotline from mid-September through Columbus Day: 1-888-MAINE45 (624-6345).

There’s so much to see and do in Maine.  Plan your trip  today.

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Your Guide to a Stunning Fall Foliage Road Trip — Maine 2022

A color tour in Maine is what the fall season is all about. Road tripping through the beautiful state with leaves of warm hews dropping around you is magical. 

In this article, we share the best scenic routes for a fall foliage road trip in the state. Here’s the best time to catch the colors at their peak. 

Let’s get rolling! 

What Is Maine Like in the Fall?

Driving through Maine in the fall will introduce you to the brilliant red, orange, brown, and other autumn leaf colors. The state goes all out during this season to make the experience extra special. You’ll likely find apples, pie, and cider along your route.

Apple orchards offer fresh apples, cider, donuts, and more. While the temperatures are dropping in the region, a stop for some hot apple cider, hot chocolate, or mulled wine is a must. 

HOT TIP Looking to plan a fall camping trip? Find out if campgrounds remain open during autumn.

What Is the Best Time to See Fall Colors in Maine? 

The fall colors peak in Maine between the last week of September and the first week of October; the timing can differ slightly from year to year. We recommend keeping an eye on the autumn color map for the state.

We put together a road trip guide that ensures you get the most out of the fall foliage in Maine. So gas up your vehicle, and let’s go!

The Coast of Maine: Rockport to Bar Harbor

About the Route: Driving along Maine’s coast is beautiful and a sure way to eat seafood daily. The rugged and lively coastline from Rockport to Bar Harbor is one of the most epic places in the state to be in the autumn. You’ll see the colors reflecting in the Atlantic Ocean and its bays. 

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: There are several small towns on the route to stop for food, shopping, and seaside rest stops. Take your time to soak them all in.

Once you get to Bar Harbor, we highly recommend spending a day or two in Acadia National Park . The park is gorgeous during the peak of the fall colors, and the unspoiled landscape is worth the drive. 

Castine and Penobscot Bay Loop

About the Route: The Castine and Penobscot Bay Loop goes through small fishing towns. The 79-mile loop makes for a lovely day trip with stops along the way for seafood, picturesque views and architecture, and a glimpse of the coastline. 

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: History buffs will love Castine. It’s one of the oldest communities in Maine and a great place to learn about the northeastern culture. 

The Blue Hill Peninsula has several towns on the route that are worth a stop. And we recommend the Dice Head Light at the mouth of the Penobscot River, a show stopper with the fall foliage as a backdrop.

Bold Coast National Scenic Byway

About the Route: The Bold Coast National Scenic Byway is a 125-mile loop. It goes along Maine’s rugged northern coast, setting off from Bar Harbor. You’ll get to see a lot of lighthouses and colorful trees on the route.

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: Be sure to stop and see the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse in Lubec. It’s the first place that the sunlight touches U.S. soil in the morning. In addition, there are exhibits in the visitor’s center that are worth checking out. 

Roosevelt Campobello International Park is another stop we recommend. It houses a historic cottage, the summer home of President Roosevelt, and flower gardens.

Acadia National Park

About the Route: Acadia National Park stands out because of its unspoiled beauty and wilderness. The fall is one of the best times to visit for vibrant red and orange leaves. We recommend spending a full day in the park. Then, you can take a slow scenic drive and take short hikes. 

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: Acadia National Park is about 50,000 acres with various sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. In addition, there are 33 miles of scenic roadways and more than 150 miles of hiking trails. You can easily spend a week here and not see it all. 

We recommend starting with the east side of Mount Desert Island, which is the most popular part of the national park. It’s a 27-mile loop. 

HOT TIP SPOILER: Acadia makes our list of the 5 Best Autumn RV Destinations — find out what the other 4 are!

Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway Loop

About the Route: The Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway Loop is 35 miles. It takes you through mountains and passes lakes like Upper Richardson Lakes. The scenery during the fall is breathtaking, and you’re likely to get glimpses of wildlife. There are also cute New England villages to take a break along the route. 

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: Height of Land is one of the best parts of this route. You can see lakes, mountains, and the White Mountains in New Hampshire. But best of all, you’re surrounded by forests with leaves changing color.

We also recommend visiting Mooselookmeguntic Lake. It’s in the town of Oquossoc. A great way to experience autumn here is by renting a boat and seeing the trees from the water.

Bangor to Houlton, Maine

About the Route: Bangor to Houlton is the most northern route. It’s about 214 miles, and there’s plenty to see. However, the peak for fall colors gets to Houlton fairly early, so be sure to plan your road trip accordingly. If you take more than a few days for the route, we recommend traveling north to south to ensure you see the best foliage.

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: The route from Bangor to Houlton is a region known for potatoes, so be sure to order them at a local restaurant. 

There are several towns to stop at on the route. We recommend pulling off on side roads to explore a little deeper into Maine’s forests.

Also, ask locals where you might spot a moose. A fall color tour is also an ideal time to see wildlife since fewer tourists are around this time of year. 

Western Maine Fryeburg-Bethel Loop

About the Route: The Western Maine Fryeburg-Bethel Loop is approximately 120 miles. It’s a beautiful part of the state and a great place to stop for apples or do some antique shopping. In addition, the historic town of Fryeburg is the home of a large fall country fair. 

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: Fryeburg’s historic district is the biggest draw to this loop. You can visit its 11 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. It also has a dozen parks you can walk through and witness autumn unfold. 

The Scottish and Irish Merchant is a recommended stop in Bethel, and you will also find antique stops in the town.

Belgrade Drive

About the Route: The Belgrade Drive begins in Augusta and goes through the Winthrop Lakes and Belgrade Lakes regions. It’s about 120 miles long. You’ll get to experience stunning fall foliage in and around the small towns on the route.

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: Augusta is the capital of Maine and holds a lot of history. It’s worth spending a half to full-day walking around to see the architecture. You may also want to check out the Maine State Museum in Augusta. 

Another recommended stop on the route is a 1754 National Historic Landmark called Old Fort Western . It’s in Augusta on the Kennebec River. It makes for a beautiful setting, especially during the fall.

Is Maine a Good Place to Visit in the Fall? 

Maine is one of the best places in the U.S. to visit in the fall. The state is full of forests with leaves that change into brilliant colors. And, with its coastline, rivers, and lakes, you’re guaranteed an opportunity to see the reflections of the fall foliage in crisp northern waterways.

We highly recommend visiting Maine during the fall. Besides the beautiful trees, it’s also a time of year with fewer crowds. So you can get around to all the hot spots without waiting in line or getting stuck in traffic.

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• Fall In Maine

Every Autumn, Mother Nature puts on a spectacular show of orange, scarlet and yellow. But the vivid colors are only part of the allure of a fall getaway in Maine. Some call it the ‘off season’ we prefer to call it the ‘show-off’ season.

Outdoor Recreation

Things To Do

Where To Stay

Your perfect fall vacation starts here.

Crisp beach walks; apple orchards; and brilliant crimson, gold and orange foliage are just a few of the things that make fall in Maine a glorious time to visit. The air has cooled, but there’s still so much to see and do. We’ve pulled together a list of can’t-miss activities for your visit to Maine this fall.

Hiking & Climbing

Immerse yourself in a world of brilliant color on a fall hike. The crisp air is invigorating, and the crunch of leaves under your boots most satisfying. Be sure to keep track of sundown and let someone back home know before you head out. Check out Maine Trail Finder for hikes for all abilities.

On the Water

Many Mainers believe the best way to see Maine is from the water, and we have to agree, especially in the fall! Hop aboard a Maine Windjammer and take a leisurely sail around the coast’s brilliant colors, or take things at your own pace with a sea kayaking trip. And when you’re out on the water, how about having a destination in mind? Early fall is the perfect time to visit one of Maine’s many islands . Ferry service is available and can get you to a little slice of heaven in no time.

Fall Beach Days

Summer beach days, move over! Fall has arrived. The air is cooler, but sunny days are still plentiful. Plus, you’ll find you may have a bit more towel room and parking is a snap. Bring a cozy sweater and book for optimal relaxation at one of Maine’s many beaches . If you’re looking for a bit of a thrill, Old Orchard Beach has access to a beachfront amusement park, Palace Playland , with rides for the whole family and Maine’s largest arcade. The cool air will be a welcome addition to the day’s excitement!

Scenic drives through Maine in the fall are one thing, but taking to the trails on two wheels can’t be beat. There’s nothing quite like peddling through tunnels of vibrant colors or biking to a breathtaking overlook. And Maine has scenic trails and picturesque routes for miles.

This fall, get out and explore the outdoors. Sleep under the stars. Surround yourself with the fiery colors of an autumn day. And then enjoy the warm glow of fire on a cool fall night. Scenic campsites from the coast to the mountains mean you can make the most of the season.

Leaf-peeping Opportunities

Possibly obvious, but nonetheless necessary to mention, Maine’s fall foliage is a true showstopper. Peak foliage season varies across the state, but it is typically from the last week of September to the first two weeks of October. The good news? Maine has a foliage tracker that starts up in September to help you plan your trip. While you’re here, there are plenty of ways to experience the foliage’s beauty — whether from a mountain’s peak or the comfort of your car.

Stunning Drives

Maine’s foliage is accessible to everyone via the state’s numerous National Scenic Byways . Spoiler alert: Maine has seven of them! These historic drives are designated by the federal government as some of the most beautiful and enjoyable across the country. Add fall foliage, and you’re in for a real treat! Take a leisurely drive or stop for a picnic and impromptu photo shoot at one of these seven winding beauties that have been designated National Scenic Byways.

Apple Picking

Nothing is more quintessentially fall than a big old bucket of round, red apples. Not to mention all the treats that often come along with the apple-picking experience, a true celebration of fall: apple cider doughnuts and baked apple turnovers still warm in their bags, piping-hot cider, and chilled sparkling cider served in frosty glass bottles.

Refresh your wardrobe or get a head start on holiday shopping with fantastic fall shopping destinations from Freeport to Bangor and everywhere in between.

Fall Festivities: Fairs

Kettle corn, cotton candy, games, rides, baby animals and more! Fall is the season for some of Maine’s final fairs of the year. Head to one of these events for a nostalgic trip down memory lane and quintessential New England fun. Be sure to stay up to date on the fairs’ websites for changes and safety protocol information.

Arts & Culture

Art is not hard to find in Maine, but if you want to be sure to hit all the finest art centers in the state, check out the Maine Art Museum Trail . With nine museums and more than 80,000 works of art, you’ll be in awe of Maine’s diverse and impressive art collections. Worked up a thirst during all the museum hopping? We have you covered. Take a look at our Art & Ales Trip Ideas for tips on where to find art in Maine in many shapes and forms. From gigantic sculptures to live performances, you can take in the magic of Maine art and sample the art of handcrafted local brews that start with Maine’s clear, clean water and expert brewers.

Fall Meandering

Whether you want to follow a trail or roam as you wish, we have some ideas to help you choose the perfect fall jaunt. The newly enhanced Maine Oyster Trail will help you experience Maine’s acclaimed bivalve from the farmer to the raw bar. Speaking of farms, get off the beaten path and try at least one of our Farms & Fiber Arts Trip Ideas . Enjoy a getaway by visiting farms, farm stands and specialty shops, or try a workshop where you can learn a variety of skills, like knitting a sweater from Maine wool. If you are in Maine during the first weekend in October, don’t miss Maine Craft Weekend . It’s the chance to see private artist studios and meet the artists, visit craft-based schools and craft beer breweries collaborating with artists, and purchase Maine-made goods at pop-up shops.

If you’re looking for a place to pitch a tent, or park an RV, and get back in touch with Mother Nature, look no further than Maine. From roughing it in the wilderness to living it up at a glamping site, Maine has you covered.

Inns / Bed & Breakfasts

This fall, stay like a local, when you stay with local Mainers. There’s no better way to experience the feeling of being a ‘temporary local’ than staying in a cozy inn located in the heart of communities all over the state.

Sporting Camps & Wilderness Lodges

When you’re ready to get away from it all and experience a real outdoor adventure, the state’s many sporting camps and wilderness lodges are waiting. Spend your days exploring the Maine woods or just kick back and breathe in the fresh air.

Oceanside or mountainside, family-friendly or surrounded by lush forests, Maine offers luxurious accommodations in every scenic setting imaginable. Treat yourself to some pampering at a spa, a memorable round on a world-renowned golf course and of course meals you’re likely to remember long after you’ve returned home.

Hotels & Motels

The only thing better than a great day exploring, is a good night’s sleep so you can do it all over again the next day. And whether you’re looking for a beachside stay or a cozy getaway in the mountains, you’re sure to find the perfect room in the perfect location in Maine.

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Travelers from all U.S. states are able to travel to Maine without providing a negative COVID-19 test result or quarantining, unless otherwise determined by the Maine CDC. International travelers from approved countries will be subject to any federal requirements for travel.

Learn how our safe travel protocols are helping ensure everyone's visit is a safe one.

The 5 Best Fall Day Trips From Portland, Maine

Even though coastal Maine is not a prime leaf-peeping destination, the seaside city of Portland is still an ideal starting point for not-so-faraway fall foliage adventures. The central location of Maine's largest city places you within a few hours of iconically scenic places, such as Georgetown Island and the Rangeley Lakes. During autumn, the Maine Department of Conservation provides weekly reports on foliage conditions throughout the state, so check to see where leaves are peaking before you hit the road.

Rangeley: Leaf Peeping and Mountain-Rimmed Lakes

A back-roads drive to Rangeley is one of your best bets if you're eager to see the state's legendary fall foliage. The Rangeley Lakes Region treats visitors to scenes of sparkling lakes framed in fall splendor, mountain silhouettes, rivers edged with reds and golds, covered bridges, and more. You can even take a cruise on Rangeley Lake—a 90-minute outing with Rangeley Region Lake Cruises and Kayaking  showcases South Bog Preserve and the fall colors of Bald, Saddleback, and Spotted Mountains.

Getting There: Leaving Portland, set your GPS first for Rumford, then for Rangeley—this way you'll get off the highway and onto more scenic roads. Route 17, which chases the Swift River, has some especially stunning views. The 120-mile journey takes about two hours, 30 minutes without stops.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the incredible scene of the lakes and mountains from the  Height of Land pulloff. This cherished spot offers one of the best drive-to foliage views in all of New England.

Freeport: Shopping With an Old-Timey Feel

 L.L. Bean Freeport

Freeport is a haven for holiday shopping, with big-name factory outlets like Calvin Klein and Vineyard Vines, all housed in a charming, village-like setting. It's best known for being the headquarters of iconic outdoor apparel retailer L.L. Bean, with its legendary giant boot in front. Other nearby attractions include  Wolfe's Neck Woods State Park , which has easy wooded hiking trails along Casco Bay and the Harraseeket River;  Bradbury Mountain State Park ; and the  Desert of Maine , a natural attraction known for its peculiar sand dunes, open through mid-October.

Getting There: The drive from Portland to Freeport is half the fun. It's a 20-minute jaunt up Interstate 95, but for a more scenic day trip, take Route 1 from I-95 to Route 88, which showcases stately homes and autumnal oaks along the coast.

Travel Tip: A short, quarter-mile hike to the summit of nearby Bradbury Mountain offers spectacular views of the surrounding fall foliage, Casco Bay, and the White Mountains.

Sabbathday Lake: The Last Surviving Shaker Village

 Wolf Cove Inn

The Shaker sect of Christianity that flourished in the mid-19th century is now almost obsolete, except on the shore of Sabbathday Lake, the only place in the world where Shakers still live. Six historic buildings showcase the characteristic handicraft of the devout community and they're open to the public through mid-October. Located just 25 miles from Portland, this simple-living oasis feels like a world away—the village is situated on 1,800 acres of farm and forest land and its historic structures date from the 1780s through the 1950s. You can take a guided tour, visit the museum, and shop for crafts in the Shaker store.

Getting There: Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village in New Gloucester is a 35-minute drive from Portland on Route 26 or the Maine Turnpike (take Exit 63). Be sure to stop at the Maine Wildlife Park in Gray on the way.

Travel Tip: Try to align your trip with Apple Saturdays, a Sabbathday Lake fall tradition featuring cider pressing, apple arts and crafts, and a homemade donut sale.

Georgetown Island: 80 Miles of Serene Coastline

TripSavvy / Kim Knox Beckius

With more than 80 miles of shoreline (and only about 1,000 inhabitants), the island of Georgetown offers some of Maine's most spectacular coastal scenery. There are endless coves, harbors, marshes, and beaches to explore on Georgetown Island, and wildlife enthusiasts will be giddy to catch glimpses of bald eagles, moose, and harbor seals. A drive along Route 127 will offer views of marshlands, rugged cliffs, and wild woods. At the mouth of the river, you'll find the Seguin Island Lighthouse standing guard. Even though this little island can't rival inland spots for leaf peeping, the blue of the ocean and rivers against the fall colors still provides infinite photo ops.

Getting There: There is no direct public transport from Portland to Georgetown Island, but you can get there in less than an hour by car. Travel north on Route 1 and take the Route 127 exit at the end of Bath's Sagadahoc Bridge. Follow this road over a series of bridges to Georgetown.

Travel Tip: Refuel for the return journey at Five Islands Lobster Co. , a rustic seafood haunt whose location on a working wharf offers optimal harbor views.

The Maine Antique Trail: A Day Trip Through Time

rossandgaffney / Getty Images

Maine is one of the best places in the U.S. for antique shopping. Treasure troves can be found inside more than 50 old barns and farmhouses along the Maine Antique Trail  (encompassing a chunk of I-95) in the southern part of the state. A particularly noteworthy antiquing destination along this route is Wells, a town filled with flea markets, antique stores, and rare book dealers. Here, a multi-dealer shop called Cattail Farm Antiques occupies an entire 10,000-square-foot barn. As you travel south on Route 1 toward Kittery, be sure to stop by  Centervale Farm Antiques  in Scarborough—one of Maine's largest single-owner antique shops—and  Antiques USA in Arundel.

Getting There: Simply drive Route 1 from Portland to Kittery, stopping off at the antique stores along the way. It takes roughly an hour, 15 minutes to travel the route, but for a faster return, follow I-95 North for 50 minutes.

Travel Tip: Serious antiquers will want to drive to Arundel first for the Arundel Swap Meet, an al fresco flea market that operates year-round (in good weather). The best finds are gobbled up early—sometimes even before the 10 a.m. opening.

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Full Week of Fall Fun Up the Coast of Maine

7 days of fall fun across maine, sea air, radiant colors, and seasonal menus.

There’s nothing like fall in Maine. Leaves are changing and fall harvest fests are around the corner…

Already dreaming up your next getaway to Maine ? Well—there’s no time like the present with fun fall adventures around every corner. From the cobblestone streets of the Old Port to a scenic fall boat ride along the coast in Freeport. The best time to see the fall foliage in Maine is mid-September through the end of October. Knowing this ensures you’ll see leaves at their peak, so keep reading to plan your seven day Maine fall foliage road trip!

Photo Credit: Serena Folding

DAY 01 – PORTLAND

Start your journey in Portland , just a two hour drive from Boston or four from New York City. If you’re flying in first, have no fear- the jetport is just ten minutes to Portland’s downtown area. Portland’s Old Port and the surrounding neighborhoods are home to award-winning restaurants , breweries , and other neighborhood favorites.

Photo Credit: GLP Films

Take the afternoon to walk around the Old Port, or venture down to the working waterfront, where you’ll see buoys, boats, and views that stretch for miles! Portland knows how to celebrate the changing seasons and will be ready with new art exhibits, seasonal specials, and Fall-themed things to do .

If you’re bringing your friends along for the fun , fall is the perfect time to bond with your besties. Kick the season into high gear by cheering for the home team together at a Maine Mariners hockey game at Cross Insurance Arena . Or when you’re ready to stretch your legs you can live your parkour fantasy at the Movement Lab Collective .

DAYS 02-03 – CHEBEAGUE ISLAND

Not every road trip has to mean staying in the car the whole time! Why not get on the Casco Bay ferry from Portland and explore one of the Casco Bay Islands? Chebeague Island is home to the beautiful Chebeague Island Inn , named one of the top 500 hotels in the world. As you approach this storied inn, you’ll have no problem glimpsing the vibrant foliage in rich red, gold, yellow, and orange hues.

Photo Credit: Peter G. Morneau

Dinner served at their restaurant focuses on seasonal, local ingredients, like lobster that’s delivered right off the boat, much of the produce is from Second Wind Farm on the island, and herbs plucked straight from the Chef’s Garden. You’ll dine overlooking the ocean, where you’ll be able to gaze upon the shore, and the fall leaves. During your stay, feel free to relax on the wraparound porch, play croquet or cornhole, or enjoy a cocktail delivered to your Adirondack chair. Soak in the sea air while you unplug.

DAY 04 – BRUNSWICK, ROCKLAND, AND ROCKPORT

After you’ve returned from your stay on Chebeague, it’s time to get on the road. Take the ferry back to Portland and make your way to Brunswick . In about 45 minutes you’ll be surrounded by picturesque shops and restaurants with lovely seaside views in Brunswick. Before making your way to Rockland, stop for lunch and enjoy a lobster roll. Or stay a night at the reimagined 19th century historic hotel, The Federal .

In Rockland (Roughly 1 hour from Brunswick), you’ll see some of the most vibrant foliage surrounded by the coastline . It’s a beautiful sight and one of the reasons why people love leaf peeping in Maine so much. The crisp fall air is perfect for grabbing an apple cider donut and hot chocolate. The foliage always looks better when you get out of the car, so take a nature walk.

Bring a jacket or a vest to stay warm while you enjoy the gorgeous show that Mother Nature puts on for everyone each fall. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures! Rockport and Rockland are near each other, making it easy to enjoy both on the same afternoon. Warm up by perusing some of the many local antique shops or boutiques near downtown.

Photo Courtesy of CFW Photography

DAY 05-06 – BOOTHBAY HARBOR AND CAMDEN

Some of the best fall foliage is found due north in Boothbay Harbor and Camden. These two coastal areas are only about an hour and twenty minutes from each other. You’ll have all day to enjoy the best of the great outdoors. Start bright and early in Boothbay Harbor by booking a spot on Cap’n Fish’s Cruises morning Whale Watching tour. It’s the perfect opportunity to see the Maine coast and hopefully catch a glimpse of a whale! There’s nothing like being on the ocean in the fall or any season. You’ll be able to enjoy the foliage while you also feel the sea spray on your face. These are the moments that make you feel alive!

After getting your fill of the sea, you can find an ice cream cone before taking a quick drive to Camden . As you take the scenic route to Camden, the colors will look more dynamic and spectacular. We wouldn’t blame you if you stopped on the side of the road to take a few pictures. The best spot for leaf peeping in Camden is Camden Hills State Park. To get the whole experience, take a hike around this beautiful place. Many people like to start with the Mount Battie Trail. It’s 1.1 miles in length that feature panoramic views of Penobscot Bay once you reach the summit. The view is beyond spectacular and a true piece de resistance for your fall foliage road trip adventure. The trail is easy to complete for hikers of all skill levels, making it something your entire family can enjoy.

DAY 07 – DRIVE BACK TO PORTLAND

It’s time to get back on the road to Portland! On your way, you can stop at some of the best places in the Greater Portland area. Who can say no to the treasures waiting to be uncovered in Freeport at L.L.Bean ? There’s no other place like it in the world, making it a fun stop to peruse, even if it’s only to say you finally visited. With restaurants downtown, it’s also a great excuse to grab a lobster roll!

Feel free to stop in Yarmouth , where you’ll find a picturesque downtown just begging to be explored. It’s quiet but bustling and a great place to see some leaves without the crowds. Maine’s beauty never ebbs, making it a stunning place to be no matter where you’re traveling. The only thing that could improve your fall foliage road trip is extending it by a few days.

Once you make it back to Portland, pat yourself on the back! You’ve done a lot in seven short days, and now you have memories to take back and remember for years to come.

Thinking of planning a friends getaway? Look no further- Fall is in the air here in Greater Portland!

If you’re planning a getaway this fall, put Portland on your list. This coastal city provides the backdrop for a spectacular Fall show.

Enjoy a safe and social-distanced Fall—while colors canvass the region and our culinary scene competes to out due each other with Fall favorites.

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Find a More Authentic Experience of Maritime Maine

• An In-Depth Week on the Maine Coast If you compare New England trips, you’ll often see an itinerary that swings hurriedly through four or five states, skimming the surface of the same few destinations. In contrast, this trip provides an immersive encounter with maritime Maine at a pace that allows you to explore mindfully.
• Encounter Maine Less Traveled While we don’t skip essential highlights like Acadia National Park, we’ve crafted this itinerary to share places and experiences off the standard tourist track, for a more peaceful encounter—including two nights on peaceful Deer Isle, home to more than a dozen nature reserves.
• Three Private Boat Trips for Intimate Exploration   Most Maine visitors who want to see the coast from offshore are packed aboard tourist vessels that cater to dozens of passengers at a time. In contrast, we've included three different private cruises aboard craft chartered exclusively for our small groups: sailing Penobscot Bay aboard a historic schooner, a lobster boat cruise around Mount Desert Island, and an excursion from Deer Isle to Isle au Haut, a tiny fishing outpost that also contains the most remote sector of Acadia National Park. 
• The Smallest Groups—No More Than 7 Travelers Per Vehicle Our group is capped at 14, but you’ll travel with no more than seven: that’s the maximum we take per vehicle, and each is accompanied by an Expedition Leader, for the best guide-to-guest ratio you’ll find. Not only do two guides ensure the ultimate in personal service and attention, but it gives us the ability to split our group up to pursue varied activities, accommodating different interests and physical ability levels. Two guides means more choices for you!
• Expert Naturalist Guides Enhance Your Experience Our Expedition Leaders are professional naturalists with a deep passion for the wild side of Maine. They know where and when to be in order to maximize your experience of nature over crowds. They have their own "secret" spots, too, to share, which are off the most heavily touristed tracks. And they are intimately familiar with the geology, flora, wildlife and history of Maine coast. We can't emphasize enough how much difference their expertise makes to your overall experience. See Expedition Leader bios with traveler comments regarding the quality of our leaders.
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4 Great Full Day Adventures for Your Epic Maine Fall Foliage Vacation

At the Wolf Cove Inn, we have lots of guests visiting Maine in the fall for an epic fall foliage vacation . To help them fully appreciate this glorious season, I’ve curated four day-trip adventures that cover the most popular activities in the area. Want covered bridges? Two adventures cover that. You like waterfalls? Two of the trips offer that as well. Finally, are you looking for some mountain foliage? Yep, we have that covered too.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WOLF COVE INN

Remember though that a great day of adventuring out among the Maine foliage must begin with a great breakfast. Guests of the Wolf Cove Inn start their day with a full Maine country breakfast. Each day you have your choice of a chef prepared savory entree, a sweet entree or eggs to order, along with side of local Maine breakfast meats and maybe even our world famous hash brown casserole.

Find your perfect room at our Maine B&B and start planning a fall getaway to remember.

Snow Falls In West Paris Maine

Enjoy Any These 4 Maine Adventures in the Fall

Waterfalls, covered bridges and mountains against a backdrop of cobalt blue skies offer picture-postcard perfect sights during Maine’s foliage season. Over the years, I’ve travelled the back roads of the Maine countryside with the goal of creating memorable day trips for guests of the Wolf Cove Inn. Below I describe four such day trips that I suspect you’ll find beautiful, rewarding and worthy of a tank of gas.

The first three tours take you along some of Maine’s most scenic byways , offering spectacular views of foliage and mother nature along the way. The first takes you south and west from the Wolf Cove Inn, aiming for covered bridges and scenic drives. The second finds you making your way north from the Inn for some pretty waterfalls in the Maine High Peaks Region. The third tour takes you west of the Inn and provides a little bit of covered bridges, a little bit of waterfalls and a whole lot of scenery. On the final tour, you’ll head west of the Inn into the White Mountains for mountain notches, passes and, yep, a whole lot more scenery.

Hemlock Covered Bridge In Fryeburg Maine

1) Covered Bridges Of Maine

Lots of folks want to visit Maine covered bridges during foliage season. This first tour takes you to 3 covered bridges in Maine ‘s southwestern region.

As a bonus, you’ll drive through some really scenic countryside along the way. Route 11 from the Inn south to your first destination in Windham is gorgeous during foliage season. Furthermore,  the drive on route 160 from Porter to Fryeburg is something else. Finally, in addition you’ll find some quaint little antique shops along the way.

Poplar Stream Waterfall In Carrabassett Valley

2) Waterfalls Of Maine

Visiting waterfalls is another great adventure during Maine foliage season. This Maine waterfalls tour takes you to as many as six waterfalls along the way. That said, I recommend skipping the Auburn falls part since typical lite autumn flows in the Androscoggin River make the falls less than spectacular. Instead, head straight on north into the Maine High Peaks Region where you can hit four falls in relatively quick succession.

And looking for a bonus on this day trip? You also cover two of Maine’s designated scenic byways – the Route 27 Scenic Byway and the Rangeley Lake National Scenic Byway.

Lovejoy Covered Bridge In Andover Maine

3) Covered Bridges and Waterfalls Of Maine

So you’d like to visit both covered bridges and waterfalls during the same day trip? Our “ Maine In The Fall ” tour takes you to two covered bridges and two waterfalls.

As well, this tour offers some great scenic driving. You’ll encounter the Grafton Notch Scenic Byway as you proceed from the Sunday River covered bridge to the waterfalls at Screw Auger Falls. And last but not least enjoy our own hidden byway through the rolling countryside of Maine in the fall along the banks of the Androscoggin River on your way back to Wolf Cove Inn.

Can You Find The Foliage Pot Of Gold?

4) A Foliage Drive Through Western Maine & The White Mountains

I previously wrote about many Maine scenic days trips in a prior blog post. The Kancamagus/White Mountain day trip in particular gets rave reviews during foliage season. You won’t find many prettier drives than on the Kancamagus Highway in the fall.

This tour takes a good day, especially if you take the “bonus” route back to Wolf Cove Inn rather than the direct route. While adding 69 miles to the journey, the bonus loop takes you through both Franconia and Crawford Notches. Both provide exceptional scenery, especially in the fall.

Wolf Cove Inn In Poland Maine

Then Return To Your Home Away From Home

After a great day of leaf peeping, head back to the Wolf Cove Inn, a B&B in Maine , to continue your Maine foliage vacation.

We know you’ve been driving all day and don’t want additional driving for dinner. We make it very convenient by offering Maine’s best pizza at our Tripp Lake Pizzeria. Our pizza dinner for two provides salad, and our specialty pizza or “build your own” pizza. Round out your dinner with a homemade dessert. Beer and wine are available for purchase at Tripp Lake Pizzeria.

Then, put the cherry on the topping of your fun day. Head on out to the fire pit and enjoy our spectacular sunsets over Tripp Lake. Then nestle up in the crisp evening air and roast some s’mores around the fire pit – complimentary of course!

Romantic Sunsets Around The Fire Pit At Wolf Cove Inn

If I’ve whetted your appetite enough for visiting Main in the fall, and if you want to do more than one of these trips, we’ve designed a multi-night package that contains some nice savings. Look for the Relax & Rejuvenate Package on our specials page.

We hope to see you soon!

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Fall Foliage Maine Road Trip for Leaf Peeping in New England

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: December 4, 2023

When is the BEST time to see fall colors in Maine?

A lot of people will tell you that fall is the best time to visit Maine so I’m lucky that I got to road trip around the coast of Maine in autumn for a whole month.

The best month to see the fall foliage in New England area is October.

Of course, the time to see peak fall colors varies each year but the first two weeks of October are a good bet for seeing peak autumn foliage in Maine .

If you are planning on driving to Maine and have some flexibility then you should check the fall foliage maps . There you can find a fall color map indicating what percentage of fall leaves have turned. They provide a weekly fall foliage report to help you best plan the timing of your trip to Maine.

Check out our list of best places for fall colors in the USA .

New England fall foliage reflection in the water – a beautiful mirror image

READ MORE: Portland Maine 10+ Best Things to Do & See

Fall foliage brings intense shades of yellow and orange contrasting with green leaves in Maine

You’ll notice on any foliage map that the coastal region is the last area in Maine to reach peak fall colors .

Typically the northern inland areas of Maine reach peak colors first and gradually it shifts south, except for the coast of Maine.

While visiting midcoast Maine be sure to visit the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse – wonderful views of Penobscot Bay in the fall.

And it’s a cool hike out to the lighthouse via the one mile breakwater made of granite.

Fall scenery in Maine – a barn and farmland plus colorful blueberry fields are not uncommon

How to get to Maine

The biggest airport in Maine, Portland International Jetport, is located just a few miles from downtown Portland, on the southern coast of Maine.

The airport code is PWM. The major American airlines flying into Portland Maine are: American, Delta, and United.

If you are driving from New York City it’s 315 miles to Portland Maine, about a 5 hour drive. And driving from Philadelphia to Portland is 400 miles and takes about 6 hours 30 minutes.

Boston to Portland Maine is 110 miles and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to drive.

Maine in the fall with leaves starting to change color and boats in the harbor

Maine fall color road trip also features brightly colored red, orange, and yellow blueberry fields

Where to Stay in Maine

I think the midcoast area is the best place to stay in Maine because then you have the option to travel in four different directions – of course if you go east it is via boat! If you are flying into Portland (PWM) then it may make sense to stay in Portland for a night, then head north.

Check prices and availability Hotels in Midcoast Maine (including Belfast, Camden, Lincolnville, Rockland, Searsport)

Find the latest deals on Hotels in Bar Harbor Maine (Acadia National Park)

Get the latest rates and deals on Hotels in Portland Maine

Maine fall foliage in beautiful Belfast looks brilliant against the blue sky and a weathered building

How Many Days for a Maine Road Trip?

You can do a lot on a long weekend road trip in Maine. But how long you spend in Maine depends on where you want to explore.

If you want to visit both coastal and inland areas, then you need at least 3 to 4 days in Maine but preferably a week.

Although, if you just want to see the fall colors and you are pressed for time you could do a 1 or 2 day road trip to Maine, but why rush?

A dog enjoys a swim in the pond while waiting to get in the canoe for an autumn paddling trip

Many people focus on a Maine coastal road trip because of the beautiful scenery, picturesque small towns and harbors, abundant seafood, boating opportunities, and the ease of planning and organizing such a trip.

Highway 1 goes from Fort Kent Maine all the way down the east coast to Key West Florida !

A dog gets to play in the pond with a backdrop of beautiful fall leaves reflecting on the water

Distances and Driving Times

As you can see from the information below, the driving times for the more scenic coastal route on Hwy 1 will take a little longer.

I much prefer a slower but scenic road trip than taking the interstate highways.

But if you are short on time or want to stop in to visit Augusta, the capital of Maine, it makes sense to take interstate I-95 rather than scenic highway 1.

New England fall road trip – Maine colors

Distances and driving times for Maine road trip

• Bar Harbor to Rockland Maine via Hwy 1 – 85 miles – driving time 2 hours
• Bar Harbor to Portland Maine via I-95/I-295 – 175 miles – driving time 3 hours
• Bar Harbor to Portland Maine via Hwy 1 – 165 miles – driving time 3 hours 30 minutes
• Belfast to Acadia National Park – 55 miles – driving time 1 hour 15 minutes
• Belfast to Camden Maine – 18 miles – driving time 25 minutes
• Belfast to Rockland Maine – 25 miles – driving time 45 minutes
• Portland to Belfast Maine (via Augusta) – 100 miles – driving time 1 hour 45 minutes
• Portland to Belfast Maine via Hwy 1 – 105 miles – driving time 2 hours 15 minutes
• Portland to Acadia National Park via Hwy 1 – 165 miles – driving time 3 hours 30 minutes

Bright red leaves of the Burning Bush – scientific name: euonymus alatus

Best Places to see the Fall Foliage in Maine

Some of the best places to see fall foliage in Maine are along the water, small lakes or ponds provide stunning reflections of the fall leaves.

As you can see in my photos from a kayaking trip at Knights Pond, near Belfast Maine, the pond reflects a mirror image of the autumn foliage.

Kayaking with fall foliage and the incredible reflection of the trees on the water

Another great place for leaf peeping is up on a mountaintop. Go hiking up the Scenic Lookout at Camden State Park for panoramic views.

Or take the scenic drive to Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park or hike Gorham Mountain Trial .

Note that fog and clouds are something to consider with New England climate, so check the weather reports for Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.

I thought I would get to see the beautiful views from  Cadillac Mountain, but clouds totally obscured the view.

I took a hike around Jordan Pond instead and consoled myself with a delicious lunch of scallops and popovers at Jordan Pond House restaurant.

Fall foliage in New England also means brightly colored blueberry bushes

What else is there to do in Maine?

Plenty! Maine is wonderful for outdoor activities from fishing and boating to hiking and mushroom foraging. Fall is the perfect time to sample some of Maine’s delicious apple cider.

After staying in midcoast Maine I wrote about all the things to do in Belfast Maine , which also includes several fun day trips along the coast.

Rowing at Belfast Harbor in Maine during October fall foliage season

There are lots of places to see on a coastal road trip with all the quaint small towns along the way. You can also go camping or hiking at Camden Hills State Park .

Explore beautiful Acadia National Park near Bar Harbor. You’ll find there are lots of fun things to do in Maine while on your fall foliage tour.

A large gray wasp’s nest hanging from a tree during autumn in Maine

Maine road trip in fall, sighting of a weathered barn and a tree with bright red leaves

Fall in Maine brings beautiful colors to the New England coast – red, green, and brilliant yellow leaves

Save it for later on Pinterest!

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Maine Fall Foliage Hiking Trip

Freeport, maine.

$999.00 - $1,249.00

Months of Operation:

Age requirements:.

• Registered Maine Guides share their wilderness expertise as you hike through Maine's remote wilderness
• Witness the spectacular colors of peak fall foliage season
• Hike Gulf Hagas, a series of beautiful waterfalls situated in a deep gorge
• Stay in a private cabin at comfortable off-the-grid AMC lodges
• Enjoy freshly prepared community meals each day
• Roundtrip transportation from the L.L.Bean Paddling Center in Freeport, ME to the lodges and hiking trails in Greenville, ME

L.L.Bean Flying Point Paddling Center

Additional Information

What to bring.

• Waterproof jacket (with hood) and waterproof pants
• Fleece jacket or wool sweater
• Warm hat and gloves (preferably waterproof)
• Synthetic hiking pants*
• Hiking boots (with ankle support)
• Lightweight shoes to wear at the end of the day
• Synthetic or wool socks
• Blaze orange article of clothing (hat, vest or other)
• Lip balm with sunscreen
• One-quart water bottle or hydration system
• Personal prescriptions such as EpiPen or inhaler
• Personal toiletries (travel size)

Optional Items to Bring

• Camera and accessories
• Bathing suit (for wood-fired sauna)

What We Provide

• Trekking poles
• Linens including pillowcases, sheets, and towels
• Dry bags for packing
• First aid kit

Additional Trip Details

• Day 1: There will be approximately 2 to 3 hours available for a guided hike once arriving at the lodge. This will be an easy to moderate hike which will vary based on weather, group interest or other conditions.
• Day 2: This day will involve guided hiking along the Gulf Hagas gorge, which will include a route that will cover approximately 8 miles of moderate terrain. This terrain will involve rough footings at times, as well as some steeper sections. The entire hike is expected to take between 6 to 7 hours with stops to explore the gorge, take photos and have lunch.
• Day 3: There will be approximately 2 to 3 hours available for a guided hike before leaving to return to Freeport. This will be an easy to moderate hike which will vary based on weather, group interest and other conditions.

Prerequisites

Questions contact an adventure consultant, policies & agreements.

• Smoking and Tobacco, and Alcohol Policy Smoking and Tobacco Policy L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs activities are tobacco- and smoke-free (including electronic smoking devices) in support of a healthy lifestyle and respect for our participants and guests. We thank you for understanding and respecting this policy. Alcohol Policy In general, alcohol consumption is not permitted during L.L.Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs events for the safety of all participants. However, alcoholic beverages are allowed on overnight trips and may only be consumed in a responsible way after the day’s activities are finished. If participants consume alcohol to excess in the evening and behave in ways that negatively impact their own safety, that of the group or the natural environment around them, our guides will intervene. We hope that we will never have to remove an offending guest from the remainder of a trip to ensure the group’s safety, but we will do so if necessary.
• Minimum Age: 12 (17 & under with parent/guardian) Participants must be 12 years old by the start of the trip, course, or tour; a parent or guardian must participate with anyone 17 years old and younger.
• Single Supplement Fee: ME Fall Foliage Trip All rates are based on double occupancy. An additional charge of $250.00 will be added to your reservation if you are traveling solo or request a separate room. The fee will be added when your reservation is confirmed and will be due with the final payment. To save on the single-occupancy fee, we are happy to pair a solo traveler with another solo traveler (of the same gender) to be your roommate for this trip. An additional charge of $125.00 (50% of the single supplement charge) will be added to your reservation. If we are able to find you a roommate, then we will fully refund the deposit to you. If we are NOT able to match you with a fellow solo traveler, then you will receive the single occupancy room for the 50% charge initially added to your reservation. Please contact us at 888-615-9979 if you are traveling solo and would like to be matched with another solo traveler.
• Over 60 days prior to departure: All but $200
• 60-30 days prior to departure: 50% of total trip fees
• Less than 30 days or failure to show:  No refund

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A fall foliage tour of the Northeast

Sydney Giuliano

Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks September 30 – October 6

We’re starting this fall foliage road trip at Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge in Northern Maine. Due to the cold weather, the foliage peaks earlier here making it the perfect first stop for a leaf peeping trip. There are visitor activities year-round at Aroostook Refuge, including wildlife viewing, cross-country skiing, canoeing and kayaking, environmental education and photography. 

Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 13 - October 20

Check out the bright red that dots the foliage near this stream. Part of what makes New England falls so famous are the red tones of autumn maple trees that give deeper dimension to our October views. Moosehorn Refuge offers over 50 miles of trails through many different upland and wetland habitats. 

Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge Nulhegan Division: Peaks September 26 – October 3

The high elevations here in Brunswick, Vermont means the leaves peak early, showcasing the beautiful reds of the state’s best-known tree, the sugar maple. The Nulhegan Basin Division of Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge has scenic overlooks at the Visitor's Station and Lewis Pond for the perfect backdrop to a stunning fall day. 

Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks September 30 - October 6

Stopping at Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge in the fall not only guarantees views of awe-inspiring autumn colors but secures you a first row ticket to the annual migration of over 20,000 ducks!

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 11 - October 18

Take a stroll down Timber Point Trail during mid to late October for views like these. Though sometimes elusive, the refuge is also home to the New England cottontail, American woodcock, and migratory birds that seek refuge in the valuable saltmarsh and estuarine habitats.

Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 11 - October 18

When we narrow our focus to just the branches overhead we can miss some pretty fantastic fall transitions. This marsh at Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge reminds us to keep our eyes open to unexpected beauty. The diverse habitats at Great Bay Refuge support many native plants and animals, including New Hampshire's greatest concentration of wintering bald eagles.

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 13 – October 20

Let’s be honest, there is never a bad time to visit the ocean. Just because “beach season” is over doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty to see and do on the coast. Check out these stunning views of the bright crimson glasswort at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge.

Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 5 – October 12

The bright blooming yellow of local golden rod is a clear sign of fall. Golden rod have a bad reputation for causing allergies however, their pollen spores are much too large to be airborne or enter your sinuses. The true source of your sneezes is ragweed, a plant that happens to grow nearby and bloom at the same time. Meander down the golden HQ Trail for an accessible adventure at Iroquois Refuge..

Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge Fort River Division: Peaks October 10 – October 17

Western Massachusetts is known for its beautiful rural views and the Fort River Division of Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge is no exception. Stroll along the completely wheelchair accessible one mile scenic trail and take in stunning views of mountain ridgelines, forests, and rolling fields. 

Assabet River National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 13 - October 20

Although these lovely leaves are enough to inspire anyone to stop by for a visit, if you’re looking for more to see, check out the refuges bird watching brochure to see just a few of the 220 species that visit the refuge this time of year. 

Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 16 – October 23

You may not be able to get a hawks eye view of the refuge but we promise you the Menunketesuck River is just as beautiful from the ground. The Salt Meadows Unit (seen here) is a stunning example of a healthy and thriving estuary. These special places filter water and help absorb storm flooding.

Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 21 – October 28

Who says New England is the only place to see some fantastic fall colors? Views at Cherry Valley National Wildlife Refuge look so quintessential New England fall that you may forget you’re in Pennsylvania. Travelling the Cherry Valley Ridge Trail will take you 3.2 miles through upland oak and pine forests and open fields along the Kittatinny Ridge. 

Erie National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 11 – October 18

The variety of trees at Erie National Wildlife Refuge is unmatched. The bright green of evergreens create a stunning contrast to the yellows of trees like the American beech, black cherry, and striped maple. Be sure to visit the observation blind on Boland/Ritchie Road in the Sugar Lake Division which overlooks Reitz's Pond for both wildlife viewing and leaf peeping.

Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 11 – October 18

In the fall the floodplain at Ohio River Islands National Wildlife Refuge becomes a golden hued spectacle. For easy viewing, the refuge offers a 1.5-mile auto tour that runs along the western shore of Middle Island and features several stopping points with informational panels. 

Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks September 21 – September 28

With its high elevation and cool temperature fall comes early in Canaan Valley. Leaf-color changes start at the tops of mountains and work their way down the slopes. Come prepared, sub-freezing mornings start in September and the first snow flurries can be seen here in early October!

Patuxent Research Refuge : Peaks October 19 – October 26

During the day be dazzled by the bright, fiery colors of the refuge and stay nearby for the evening when you may catch a glimpse of the Eastern red bat. This bat hangs amongst the leaves, having no trouble at all camouflaging into the background. 

Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 20 - October 31

Take in the views of the vast wetlands along Wildlife Drive at Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge. This gem of Virginia has an astounding diversity of birds and wildlife and is home to over 650 species of plants that display this fountain of fall colors. 

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge : Peaks October 22 – October 28

For our final stop of this trip, Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge is sure to delight. With its huge cyprus trees and spectacular marsh, there’s plenty of exciting wildlife to see. If you’re lucky you may even catch a glimpse of a black bear. Preparing for hibernation, bears are very active in the fall. Keep your distance and you may have a shot at catching one of these beautiful animals on camera. 

Not in the Northeast? No problem. Find your local national wildlife refuge or national fish hatchery .

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Grand New England

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EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE - Insider stories about New England during filmed narratives by documentary filmmakers Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan

A visit to the Maine Maritime Museum and authentic lobster dinner at Cook's Lobster & Ale House 

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

A private tour and lunch at Edith Wharton's Berkshire home, The Mount

An exclusive hands-on lobstering experience in Portland with a local lobsterman

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Legendary Journeys and Adventures

An autumn fall foliage tour paints New England landscapes with bold, Impressionist colors that surprise, delight, energize and mesmerize, and awaken the visionary in you.

Summit mount washington, equinox golf resort and spa, visit the lincoln family home, mount washington omni hotel, tour the clark art museum, go lobster fishing, walk the freedom trail, have lunch at edith wharton's berkshire mansion, the mount, proportion, symmetry, and functionality – welcome to edith wharton's "the mount".

In the Berkshires of Massachusetts, discover the life story of the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize, Edith Wharton, author of best-selling novels such as The Age of Innocence. Her gardens and mansion speak volumes about her privileged upbringing, and she was known for her revolutionary design sensibility – the novelist designed the house and gardens herself and called it her first real home. Discover what it was like to be one of her guests on a guided tour that's followed by lunch.

Tauck Exclusive – film vignettes by Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan

Exclusive film vignettes by documentary filmmakers ken burns and dayton duncan.

Get an exclusive perspective from filmmakers Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan in short films that tell stories of the people who shaped and defined New England; they bring their knowledge and behind-the-scenes insights to you via exclusive filmed narratives. Ken Burns has been making groundbreaking films chronicling the "American story" for more than 30 years, with a mission to explore who we are as Americans. His films have won more than a dozen Emmy Awards and two Oscar nominations, and include documentaries about our national parks and pastimes, America's wars and wealthy families, the men and women who changed history, and the times that changed us all.

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The langham, boston.

Boston, Massachusetts

The Equinox Golf Resort and Spa

Manchester, Vermont

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Burlington, Vermont

Omni Mount Washington Resort

Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

Brunswick Hotel & Tavern

Brunswick, Maine

Nights 10-11

The Westin Portland Harborview

Portland, Maine

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Travel Documents

Grand New England begins and ends in the U.S.

Real ID Act - Effective May 7, 2025

Beginning in May 2025, some state IDs will no longer permit you to board a domestic flight. Currently, some states are compliant, some have received extensions, and some are not compliant.  Click here  to see the status of your state. If your state license is not compliant, you can use a passport in lieu of a valid state ID. 

Please Note:  The federal government has extended the deadline to May 7, 2025 for domestic airline passengers to secure a Real ID driver's license for use as identification at the airport. Travelers without a verified license or ID card will also have the option of showing other identity documents, such as a passport or military ID to board a plane.

If you are traveling by air to join and/or depart from this tour within the U.S.,  please read the section entitled Airline Security Measures in below to determine what travel documentation is required.

If you are frequent traveler to the U.S. from Canada ,  you may benefit from the NEXUS program, which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet website by clicking  here .

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally,   you should contact an embassy or consulate of the U.S. to determine what travel documentation is necessary. You may also log on to the U.S. State Department's Internet site by clicking  here.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposit & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $350 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment is due to Tauck 60 days before departure for lands trips, and 120 days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement for up to $5,000 to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $349  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1, 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPDOM .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

60 days or more before departure = $350 per person

59-8 days before departure = $600 per person

7-1 days before departure = $900 per person

Time of cancellation  will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control,  Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage – General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may not be accessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

While drinking water is generally safe at all our hotels, bottled water will be available wherever the local water is not fit to drink. We also provide bottled water on the motor coaches.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of another country traveling to or within the U.S., we suggest that contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to obtain information regarding vaccinations and medications for vaccine-preventable diseases and other diseases for which you might be at risk when you reach your destination in the U.S. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking  here .

While the pace of this tour is relaxed and leisurely, to enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

All of the hotels and resorts on this itinerary have an elevator. If you have difficulty walking, be sure to advise your Tauck Director at the beginning of the tour so that rooms close to the public areas or on the ground floor can be requested if possible.

The Stoweflake Resort is a non-smoking property. The hotel may charge a guest cleaning fees if the guest is found to have smoked anywhere in the hotel. These fees may be applied even after a guest has checked out.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

New England has four distinct seasons and with each some rain or snow does fall. In autumn, from September through November, daytime temperatures range from 50 to 75 ˚F (10 to 24 ˚C), but temperatures above 80 ˚F (27 ˚C) as well as freezing temperatures are not uncommon. "Indian summer" is a name given to a period of sunny, warm weather in autumn not long before winter. The most widely accepted criterion for determining whether an Indian summer is occurring is that the weather must be above 70 °F (21 °C) for seven days after the autumnal equinox. In the mountains, late nights and early mornings may be chilly. By the shore, a short jaunt out onto the water or even relaxing seaside with an onshore breeze may require a jacket or sweater. To enjoy the changing color of the leaves be prepared for early morning frosts and even a day or two of summer-like weather.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website,  noaa.gov , by clicking  here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip.  Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. For the welcome and farewell receptions, casual wear is appropriate; formal wear is never required. For dinner at the Omni Mount Washington Resort, athletic wear, pool attire and gentlemen's hats are not allowed; jackets are suggested.  The hotel has a small selection of jackets available on site. Warm clothing that can be layered is recommended for the lobster boat excursion and cruise in Portland, as temperatures are normally 10 degrees cooler on the water than on land. A jacket or fleece for summer outings and something heavier for autumn is highly recommended.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription (or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you), a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

Valet laundry service is available at most of the hotels. Hair dryers are available in most of the guest rooms, and irons and ironing boards are available on request.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your tour of New England:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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6 Maine bugs you can actually eat

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This story was originally published in June 2021.

If you like experimenting with bugs in the kitchen , curious foragers can enjoy a feast featuring plenty of insects that you can harvest and enjoy right here in the Pine Tree State.

Despite the backlash from animal rights activists  (and some allergic reactions ), eating insects has a long history and a continued legacy around the world — one that Americans are just starting to tap into.

“You don’t get any more paleo than eating insects,” said Bill Broadbent,  founder of Entosense, Inc. in Lewiston. “This is something that our ancestors have always eaten that we’ve stopped eating. It would make sense that it would be good for us to add to our diets. It’s giving us all sorts of nutrition that you’re not getting in other places.”

New England has a legacy of insect eating, too. Not only is there a history of eating insects in Native American cuisine, Seattle-based author David George Gordon, who is known as “The Bug Chef,” said that carpenter ants got their name because carpenters in New England would eat them to ward off scurvy.

If curiosity isn’t enough to get you eating bugs, there are environmental benefits as well. Edible insects are rich in protein and good fats, high in calcium, iron and zinc and take little farming space or water — especially if you are foraging for them — according to a 2013 report from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization .

The bugs you can eat

In Maine, there are a number of common insects you can forage for food.

Grasshoppers  are “one of the most delicious bugs you’re likely to find,” Gordon said. He marinates defrosted grasshoppers in mustard and olive oil, puts them on skewers and barbecues them.

“They’re quite good,” Gordon said. “Probably the closest [comparison in taste] is something like a green pepper. They have a distinctive green taste..”

While you don’t see grasshoppers as much in Maine as in other areas, they can be found in fields with tall grass and caught with a butterfly net, Broadbent said. Grasshoppers, he noted, are particularly popular in Mexico, where they are fried and tossed in a variety of spices for a snack called chapulines. As such, he recommended tossing grasshoppers in garlic, chile and lime or lemon before roasting them.

Another delicious, abundant option for edible insects are ants . Broadbent said that ants have been especially popular among fine dining restaurants experimenting with insects.

“[Ants] don’t really look like an insect when they’re topped on a salad and … they taste great and they have a citrus punch,” Broadbent said. “Very few people dislike them and a lot of chefs are using them instead of lemon and lime.”

To collect ants, push a glass jar into a mound and wait for a swarm to fall in (the ants can’t climb back up the glass sides), Broadbent said. You can also use a sugar cube to attract the ants that you collect.

After freezing, you might want to let them dry in the sun for a few hours, or briefly at low heat in the oven. Then, Gordon said you can sprinkle them on anything, like you might with cracked pepper.

For another unexpected punch of bug flavor, Gordon recommended the stink bug . Foraging for invasive species, like the marmorated stink bug, is “doing the world a favor by getting rid of them,” Gordon said.

“The stink bug has this pheromone, it tastes a little bit like a green apple Jolly Rancher,” Gordon said. “You can just grab them with your hand. I think they’re banking on the fact that people aren’t going to bother them so they’re not fleeing.”

The giant water bug is also delicious and available in Maine, said Andrei Alyokhin, professor of applied entomology at the University of Maine.

“They’re fairly large, maybe between 2 and 3 inches,” Alyokhin said. “You can find them in streams and lakes, sometimes close to shore. They’re attracted to lights.”

June bugs are another easy-to-harvest edible insect that hovers close to lights. Famed chef Andrew Zimmern even ate barbecued June bugs in Maine on a 2008 episode of his television show, “Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern” on the Travel channel.

“The June bugs make great toppings on things because they’ll keep their shape when you roast them,” Broadbent said.

Gardeners should keep an eye on their tomatoes, too — and not just for fruit. In the edible insect world, tomato hornworms are basically a delicacy.

“They are in general terms thought to be pests but they are quite edible and they’re also large, so they’re fairly conspicuous for people who have tomatoes,” Alyokhin said.

Alyokhin said that he has eaten delicious fried green tomato hornworms. Broadbent recommended boiling them, slicing them into rounds and adding them to salads. Gordon said that he likes to stir fry tomato hornworms after they have been frozen and defrosted.

“The only thing when you’re cooking with hornworms is because there’s moisture inside them and there’s nowhere to go when it fries, so it inflates like a balloon and pops,” Gordon said. “Use a wok so you can roll them in and out of the heat. They’re pretty tasty.”

Before you cook any insects though, they should be humanely killed, Broadbent said. He recommends putting them in the freezer for about an hour. After that, there are a variety of cookbooks that will help you prepare them — including Gordon’s own “The Eat-A-Bug Cookbook.”

Bug foraging rules

When foraging for bugs to eat, there are a few basic rules to follow, for both your protection and the protection of the environment.

First and foremost, if you have shellfish allergies, do not eat bugs. The allergic reaction people get from eating shellfish is caused by the ingestion of a muscle protein called tropomyosin, which is also found in some insects.

Be aware, too, that not all insects taste good. Alyokhin said to avoid brightly colored insects like bees, wasps, ladybugs and some caterpillars. In the same vein, avoid anything hairy (so, no, you cannot eat browntail moth caterpillars).

“These hairs are more like spines,” Alyokhin said. “There is some variation in that but in many cases these hairs are for defense.”

When you are harvesting insects in the wild, make sure you are being respectful of future populations. Broadbent said that the general rules of ethical foraging  still apply, though it is on a somewhat different scale for bugs.

“The general rule with things like that is to take a third or a half and leave the rest. It’s a lot harder with bugs,” Broadbent said. “To decimate a population of any type of insect that we’re talking about would take a lot of work.”

Make sure you aren’t harvesting insects anywhere that pesticides are being sprayed.

Finally, Gordon said that, with a few exceptions like ants, you should always cook insects before you eat them.

“You’re not likely to get disease or parasites from eating insects but there is a possibility,” Gordon said. “Cooking it would finish that off.”

If you are concerned about pathogens and still want to try edible bugs, Alyokhin said that you can always purchase mealworms  or crickets  designated for consumption from a company that produces edible insects.

Most importantly, Gordon said to savor the experience of eating bugs.

“A lot of insects have states and vitamins and minerals that you wouldn’t get elsewhere,” Gordon said. “It’s a great opportunity to be curious. Don’t just focus on, ‘I gotta get me some good eats.’”

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