fall foliage tour maine

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Fall Foliage Road Trips

When leaf season rolls around, Mainers and visitors ask only two questions: When are the leaves changing, and where are the best views?

To answer that first question, go to Maine Foliage , the State of Maine website devoted to all things leaf related. Not only does the foliage report update you on how the season is progressing (generally from late September through mid-October), but the fall foliage tracker provides a Maine foliage map that zeros in on specific zones throughout the state, from the farthest north to the deepest south, from ocean to mountain.

As for where to go for leaf peepin...well, we’ve got some suggestions. Specifically, check out the many State and National Scenic Byways, which are wonderful drives during most of the year and especially nice when the leaves turn.

Want foliage with an ocean view?

Consider the DownEast coast and the state’s national park — Acadia National Park. Start by driving the 40-mile Acadia All-American Road . The route is so scenic it was designated an All-American Road — the gold standard of National Scenic Byways. The journey goes on to Mt. Desert Island, through the town of Bar Harbor, and into the primary section of the park. The mountains and hills glow with turning leaves, inviting you onto the park trails and Acadia National Park Carriage Roads for walking and cycling.

Add to your Acadia leaf-peeping experience by branching out on the 29-mile Schoodic National Scenic Byway . This route meanders through the less-visited — but no less spectacular — Schoodic Peninsula section of the park. It’s known for coastal towns, sea views and great bicycling.

For more oceanside, head farther DownEast to the Blackwoods Scenic Byway and the National Scenic Byway — the Bold Coast . The Blackwoods Scenic Byway, at 12.5 miles, ducks between swatches of forest and wild blueberry barrens that blaze with autumn color. The Bold Coast National Scenic Byway, at 125 miles, takes in the most dramatic seacoast in Maine, complete with rocky headlands and quiet fishing communities.

Turn inland, and Maine offers areas packed with forests, teeming with lakes and hills, and bordered by stunning mountains.

The St. John Valley/Fish River National Scenic Byway is a working Byway, but more importantly, it is a cultural journey which traverses along the northern border of Maine through the beautiful St. John Valley and wanders down Route 11 in far-northern Aroostook County. The route rolls over hills by lakes and rivers in the heart of Acadian Maine, settled by early French families. Keep an eye out for moose and deer, who might want to share the road with you. This Cultural Valley is a unique place in America, where communities still celebrate their ancestry, from the Maine Acadians to the Scotch-Irish settlements; from the Native American tribes of the Maliseet and Mi’kmaq to the French-Canadian or Quebecois.

Farther south, rub elbows with Maine’s largest state park, Baxter, as well as its federal national monument, Katahdin Woods and Waters , when touring on the 89-mile Katahdin Woods & Waters National Scenic Byway . Looping through vast tracts of the North Maine Woods, you’ll pass the headwaters of the Penobscot River and enjoy views of Katahdin — Maine’s largest mountain — which is especially glorious in the fall.

The  Million Dollar View Scenic Byway  may be only eight miles long, but the vistas are priceless. On this short segment of Route 1, enjoy unparalleled views of the Chiputneticook lakes, including East Grand, Brackett and Deering. Look beyond for glimpses of Katahdin, Maine’s biggest mountain, in the distance, as well as views of New Brunswick across the nearby border.

For foliage by Maine’s largest lake, check out the Moosehead Lake Scenic Byway . This 59-mile route follows state Route 15 around Moosehead and its adjacent hills. Nearby, the 78-mile Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway follows the highway along parts of the Kennebec River and up old trading routes from western Maine to the Canadian border. The route heads through long-time timber country, with waves of bright autumn leaves lighting up the hills.

To enjoy Maine mountain foliage, steer onto the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway . This 52-mile route roams through an area sparkling with lakes and girded with peaks. Viewpoints like the popular Height of Land let you gaze out across the surrounding mountain ranges and the lakes beneath — and all those changing leaves.

Businesses & Organizations

• Scenic Byways

Mahoosuc Initiative

The Mahoosuc region stretching from Bethel and Newry in Maine across to Errol, Berlin and Gorham, NH...

Phone: (207) 824-3806

Website: www.mahoosuctouringmap.org

Address: c/o Mahoosuc Land Trust P.O. Box 981 , Bethel

The Scenic Route Maine Tours

Let us take you on The Scenic Route! We are a LOCAL, family owned, and operated tour company sharing...

Phone: (207) 518-3342

Website: www.thescenicroutemainetours.com

Address: 18 Fern Ln , South Portland

Acadia All-American Road

Following Route 3, this byway circles the Mt. Desert Island and passes through Acadia National Park....

Schoodic National Scenic Byway

The Schoodic National Scenic Byway crosses through Sullivan, Gouldsboro and Winter Harbor in...

Phone: (207) 667-7131

Website: www.schoodicbyway.org

Address: Hancock County Planning Commission 395 State Street , Ellsworth

Kennebec River Pub & Brewery

The Kennebec River Brewery, located at Northern Outdoors Adventure Resort is open year-round serving fresh ales and great food in the Maine woods!

Phone: 207-663-4466

Website: www.northernoutdoors.com

Address: 1771 Route 201 , The Forks

Experience Learn Discover

Phone: (207) 998-4351

Website: www.gemsof26.com

Address: 543 Maine Street , Poland Spring

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7 Best Places To Visit For Peak Fall Foliage In Maine [2023]

The fall foliage in Maine is more spectacular than anywhere else in the country. Between the perfect fall weather (crisp air and sunny days) and being the largest, but least populated, New England state, you can’t go wrong planning your fall foliage tour in Maine.

There are also over 500,000 acres (almost 90% of the state!) of forests and parks in Maine, providing plenty of options to see our incredible foliage no matter which part of the state you want to visit.

A great time to plan a trip to Maine is really the middle weeks of October , but depending on which part of the state you visit, the end of September through the end of October are still great times.

When Do The Leaves Change Color In Maine?

People flock to Maine to see the leaves change color, and with good reason– it’s stunning ! The Maine peak foliage time is typically late September through late October depending upon which part of the state you are in.

However, peak fall foliage in Maine can vary from year to year and it sometimes peaks a little earlier or later. Since the colors change from north to south, there is always a pretty wide window of opportunity to see peak colors, though.

Northern Maine peak foliage often reaches its height during the last week of Septembe r or the first week of October.

In mid-October , central Maine and the Western Mountain region come alive with their peak colors. This is followed by the coastal areas and the southern part of the state when late October–sometimes even as late as Halloween–is Maine peak foliage time here.

Generally, the coastal region is the last area to reach peak foliage colors.

Whichever region you prefer, visiting Maine in October is sure to provide you with some spectacular scenery.

People Ask . . . Is Bar Harbor crowded in October? It’s far less crowded than it is during the peak of summer tourism, so you’ll have a little more space and shorter waits, but since 30% of tourists to Maine visit in the fall , you’ll still find a vibrant downtown.

In general, the last week of September through the end of October are safe times to plan a visit to see the Maine peak foliage . This is when you’ll see the fall foliage and amazing colors that only Maine weather can brin g.

I grew up in NH and still visit often. I can tell you that even though NH is right next door, Maine still has a more brilliant display of fall colors !

In fact, according to the Office of Maine Tourism, Maine gets about 25%-30% of its tourists in the fall. 60% of tourists come in the summer, and the rest in the winter. About 1/2 of the visitors come from other New England states and about 1/3 from the mid-Atlantic states.

Although they are nearby, even their own states can’t compare!

Of course, fall foliage can be fickle. The vast majority of the time the peak foliage in Maine is amazing and incredible right when we expect it to be. However, so much depends on the weather.

We can have heat, cold, or rainy spells that wreak havoc. We’ve also had the occasional wind storm that decimated all the trees, leaving them virtually bare right at the start of the peak foliage season.

7 Best Places To Visit For Peak Fall Foliage In Maine

1. baxter state park.

Baxter State Park in Millinocket is just incredible . Its motto is ‘wilderness first, recreation second’, so that gives you an idea of just how ruggedly beautiful you will find the park.

2. Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a must-see any time of the year, but it’s particularly amazing during foliage season. You can drive the Park Loop Road to get a great overview of the foliage with plenty of places to stop for picture taking.

Or, head to Cadillac Mountain , the highest point on the eastern seaboard. Drive to the top and you will have the most incredible view of the harbor, forest, and distant mountains that you can imagine.

You have to reserve a time by registering your vehicle, which you can do here . You can also pick up a map of hiking trails in the park. Either way, you can’t go wrong. You can find a map here .

3. Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake is another ruggedly beautiful area of Maine. You can take one of the cruises listed here or just explore by car or foot. Maine fall foliage time is also prime moose mating time, so you may see moose out and about as a bonus!

4. Rangeley

Heading over to the western mountains , Rangeley is one of my favorite areas in Maine, in fact here are some things to do in Rangeley if you decide to go there to see the foliage (you will not regret that decision!).

There is, of course, the seaplane tour listed on this page , and Height of Land offers an insanely beautiful view. You can also see the foliage at an amazing waterfall just outside of town on Rt. 4.

6. The Forks

The Forks in western Maine bills itself as a “ leaf peeper’s paradise second to none. ” It offers three amazing driving loops on its website and is another place where you just can’t go wrong if you are hoping to see the best Maine fall foliage.

7. Rockland, Rockport, & Camden

Last, but certainly not least, perhaps my favorite place of all in Maine–Rockland, Rockport, Camden, Boothbay Harbor, & Belfast- -combined to become the unofficial mid-coast area. This area is also home to some really amazing restaurants .

We love this area so much that this is where we got married.

By a sea caption.

Overlooking the harbor.

It is gorgeous any time of year and anything you decide to do is awesome.

Here are some ideas: 16 Best Things To Do In Belfast , 5 Great Day Trips From Belfast , and 7 Fun Day Trips From Boothbay Harbor .

What’s better than hiking in the gorgeous fall foliage with your dog ? Staying in a great pet-friendly hotel in the awesome town of Boothbay Harbor! We definitely pamper our pets, as evidenced by the rise of pet sitting instead of pet boarding.

Best Scenic Drives To See The Fall Foliage In Maine

Basically, anywhere you drive in Maine is going to be gorgeous . Of course, the further off the beaten path you go the better the scenery. So, while driving 95N will still be pretty , a drive up Rt. 1 will be prettier . But . . . a drive on Rt. 4 to Rangeley, or Rt. 201 to the Forks will be stunning .

Your best bet is to choose your destination based on the place you want to visit rather than based on a particular driving route. Once you are at your destination , people will be happy to give you some ideas on where the best drives might be.

Unique Ways To Experience Fall Foliage In Maine

There are so many different ways to experience the gorgeous foliage in Maine. The most common way is to drive around and enjoy the colors , but you can also take a cruise, hike, bike, or even ride a chairlift .

These different ways will get you out into the crisp fall air and sunshine , where the colors will seem a little brighter and the experience will make a more lasting impression because you’ll be using all of your senses to experience nature and the beauty of the fall season.

There is no shortage of opportunities to find fall events in Maine, from fairs and festivals to wine tours and cruises, you’ll definitely be able to find a unique experience that fits your mood and your budget.

➡️ Take A Ride On A Chairlift

✔️ Ride the Camden Snow Bowl chair lift ride on Sundays in October for only $10 . It’s a triple lift, and while you have to get off at the top, you are able to get back on and ride the lift down again if you don’t want to hike down the mountain.

Your views will range from Penobscot Bay to Cadillac Mountain , and, of course, the entire Ragged Mountain area.

✔️ Sugarloaf Mountain’s Outpost Adventure Center also offers an amazing super quad chairlift ride . They are open weekends through the end of Maine foliage season. Tickets are $15 when purchased in advance .

As with the Camden Snow Bowl lift, you will have to disembark at the top, but you can either get back on or hike down the mountain.

➡️ Visit A Pick-Your-Own-Apple Orchard

The apple season in Maine runs through the end of the Maine foliage season. Many orchards are found amidst amazing scenery . Check out the apple orchards in the area you plan to visit for the foliage season and see what activities they offer.

You’ll find concerts , hay rides , and picnic spots at quite a few orchards. Some even offer hiking trails ! Get outside, pick a few apples, and have some cider and donuts all while experiencing the beautiful Maine fall foliage.

➡️ Follow The Maine Wine Trail

If you’re looking for a unique itinerary that offers more than Maine fall foliage–although that alone is worth the trip–why not spend the day, or weekend, following the Maine Wine Trail ?

Vineyards and orchards are already beautiful and often in magnificent settings anyway, add in the incredible foliage and some wine tasting and you’ll have a truly wonderful fall foliage experience. As a bonus, you’ll get to sample some local wines.

➡️ See The Foliage From The Water

Take one of the several fall foliage cruises in the state. You could see some seals or puffins , crossing two things off your Maine list at once.

✔️ Moosehead Lake Boat Cruises offers a variety of cruises, from a few hours to a full day. You’ll be traveling on classic steamboats , with plenty of amenities inside and plenty of room outside for you to take in the fresh air and the i ncredible scenery along the coast of Maine’s largest lake.

✔️ Acadian Boat Tours offers cruises around the Bar Harbor and the Acadia National Park coastline. You can choose from lighthouse tours , puffin tours , and several other types . Be one of the few people who get to experience Acadia National Park from both the inside and outside.

✔️ Casco Bay Lines out of Portland offers several cruises to islands off the coast. During the cruises you’ll learn about the history of the area, maybe s ee some seals , and, of course, see some incredible fall foliage.

✔️ Maine Windjammer cruises in mid-coast Maine –think Rockland and Camden–offer schooner cruises. If you’ve never been on a schooner, it’s an incredible feeling .

Add the gorgeous leaves , still water, and blue skies and you will have some of the most IG-worthy photos you can imagine.

See The Foliage From An Amazing Schooner

Choose from the Sunset Sail or the Classic Day Sail. Both leave right out of Camden Harbor.

Both cruises are about two hours long, and you can’t go wrong with either of them.

👉 Learn More About The Windjammer Classic Sunset Sail Here

👉 Learn More About the Windjammer Classic Day Sail Here

You could also simply go kayaking . There are so many lakes and rivers in Maine that you are sure to find one near you that rents kayaks. The quietness of the water on a crisp fall day . . . it can make you imagine what it must have been like at Walden Pond.

Tranquil and beautiful . Just you, the water, and the amazing foliage.

➡️ Get A Bird’s Eye View

✔️ The Rangeley Lake area is spectacular for Maine fall foliage. You can take a plane tour of the region where you’ll take off on a seaplane from Rangeley Lake and see the entire region from the air . A truly one-of-a-kind experience!

Take A Seaplane Tour Over The Rangeley Lakes Area

What an amazing, amazing way to see the gorgeous fall foliage! There are a couple of options; one is strictly sightseeing, and the other includes stopping for dinner at a camp. Either one will be an incredible experience.

✅ Click here to learn more about the Rangeley Lakes Region Seaplane Tour.

✅ Click here to learn more about the Mountain Explorer Rangeley Seaplane Tour

✔️ Another bird’s eye view, but without the plane this time, involves heading to the top of the Penobscot Narrows Bridge. This is the highest bridge observatory IN THE WORLD. Crossing the Penobscot River, the observation deck offers miles of 360-degree views .

It is spectacular!

➡️ Take In A Festival While You’re Here

✔️ The Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta is held the first week of October . Of course, there are all the typical fall festival activities, but this is the only one I’ve ever heard of where the regatta is made of boats carved out of pumpkins !

That’s right, they hollow out HUGE pumpkins and paddle them down the river for their pumpkin regatta!

✔️ The Camden International Film Festival is held every year during the last week of September . This is a little early for peak foliage in coastal Maine. However, you can easily take day trips from the area to places in central Maine where you may see peak foliage depending on the weather. (Here are some more Maine film festivals. )

✔️ The Sunday River Fall Festival offers not just the chairlift rides mentioned earlier, but you can also ride the gondolas during the festival. Of course, they offer food, music, arts and crafts, and all the things you might expect at a fall festival.

Its claim to fame? The North American Wife Carrying Championship . Yes. It is exactly what it sounds like!

People ask . . . When is the best time to see fall colors in Acadia National Park? It’s hard to say exactly when since we can’t predict the weather. However, Maine has an official foliage page that you can check. It will give the latest foliage updates by zone to help you plan your visit.

✔️ In the mid-coast, the Boothbay Fall Festival is a really traditional coastal Maine fall festival held in early October. There will be vendor booths, food, artists, and a fantastic festival atmosphere. They are planning some new events for 2022.

✔️ Harvest Fest at York Beach has been voted one of the 10 best fall festivals in Maine . Considering how many festivals Maine has, that’s saying something! They also include a special kids fest with storytelling a railroad, and special children’s activities.

✔️ Visit L.L. Bean in Freeport as they raise money for Camp Sunshine with their annual Camp Sunshine Pumpkin Festival . For a $10 donation, you can have a pumpkin displayed ‘in memory of’.

The pumpkins line the streets of Freeport so as you stroll around in the evening you will be surrounded by almost 10,000 glowing pumpkins ! That sounds like an amazing way to end a day of leaf peeping.

Why & When Do Leaves Change Color In Maine?

Along with ‘when do the leaves change color in Maine’, a lot of people want to know why they change color. Did you know that all those colors have been there in the leaves all along?

As the days get shorter and the weather turns colder, trees begin to go dormant so they can survive the harsh winter weather. As part of this process, photosynthesis stops . As the chlorophyll begins to subside from the leaves, the green slowly fades .

This provides the opportunity for all the other colors in the leaves to burst through ! Those beautiful oranges , reds , golds , and purples have been there all along, but the strong green from all the chlorophyll masked their vibrant colors .

In Maine, this process can sometimes happen really quickly, literally overnight! Most of the time, though, it takes a week or so from when the leaves start changing to when they reach their peak Maine fall foliage colors.

Conclusion: Fall Foliage In Maine

Hopefully, this has given you some great ideas about where to see the best Maine peak fall foliage, and when the leaves change color in Maine . No matter where you choose to visit, and what activities you decide to participate in, you’re bound to see beautiful fall colors .

Fall in Maine is so spectacular that there is just no way to be disappointed with whatever you choose. For a really unique and spectacular way to see the Maine foliage, why not try a hot air balloon ride?

Virtually all of Maine is beautiful during the peak foliage season , but the places listed here go beyond beautiful to stunning and spectacular. If you can’t get to one of these towns, no worries. Wherever you go you will still see the most gorgeous foliage ever.

After all, Maine’s ‘dull’ foliage is better than most other states’ peak foliage . That’s why so many New Englanders come here for the Maine peak foliage, even though they are right next door.

P.S. There’s one more amazing place to see peak fall foliage in Maine, the Onawa Trestle, but it’s dangerous and illegal to actually walk out onto the trestle so I didn’t include it in the main list. You can still see the foliage from the actual land, though.

Looking for more things to do and places to visit?

Navigating corn mazes and going apple picking are always great fall activities.

What to do after corn mazes, apple picking, and the fall foliage are over?

✅ Check out our list of great things you can do in Maine in November.

Meet the heart and soul behind Wandering Through Maine – a true New Englander at heart, originally from NH, who found their forever home in the beautiful state of Maine. Maine called to them like a lighthouse beacon, and they've embraced it wholeheartedly ever since. This blog isn't just a guide; it's a heartfelt invitation from someone who's walked the trails, sailed the waters, and knows Maine not just as a place on the map, but as a vibrant community and an adventurer's paradise that they call home.

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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ULTIMATE 2023 Maine Fall Foliage Map & Peak Prediction Guide

Are you searching for the most beautiful fall foliage in Maine? Our guide includes peak color predictions, top places to visit for colorful views , and a 2023 Maine fall foliage map .

One of the most popular activities in Maine during fall is leaf peeping. With such a vast amount of wilderness, there are countless spots where you can observe and photograph the vibrant golds, oranges, and reds that emerge during the foliage season.

In 2023, the majority of The Pine Tree State will see the colors emerge and peak around the same time, according to the fall foliage prediction map. However, a few spots here and there will get colorful canopies either a week sooner or a week later.

So that you don’t miss the colors, we’ve put together this guide to give you a better idea of what to expect in each region of Maine. You’ll also find some recommendations for where to see the best peak fall foliage Maine has.

Understanding the Changing Leaves in Maine

Predicting when fall leaves grace us with their presence isn’t easy because the primary factor that affects the timing is the weather. Ideally, the leaves need a wet summer followed by dry, sunny days and cool nights. If it’s too dry, though, the leaves will fall before they get to show their true colors.

Maine Fall Weather Prediction

Typically, Maine begins to see leaf changes around the end of September and into early October in the north. Then, the rest of the state can watch the colors emerge through mid to late October.

Since Maine had a cool and wet summer in 2023, the fall foliage is emerging earlier and spottier than in years past. The coastal areas are expected to be affected the most by the weather, so keep that in mind when you’re planning your fall color tour.

Weather and forest experts expect the season to be colorful and develop normally from north to south, with some areas of transition lasting longer than normal. And, there will be plenty of places across Maine that are perfect for leaf peeping.

Why & How Leaves Change Color

Understanding why and how fall foliage comes about can be helpful in understanding fall color predictions and the colors that you can expect to see.

In preparation for winter hibernation, trees stop making food — known as chlorophyll — for their leaves when the temperature starts dropping and the number of daylight hours shortens. Since chlorophyll is what gives leaves their green color, the lack of chlorophyll means that their true colors get a chance to stand out.

As a result, you see various hues of gold and yellow. But, that’s not only the chemical process that occurs. Some leaves turn red and purplish because they contain anthocyanin pigments. Dogwood and sumac trees are the most commonly associated with these colors.

Leaf Peeping in Aroostook County

The northernmost region of Maine — Aroostook County — is typically the first to get fall colors. For 2023, the colors are emerging in mid-September with partial color by the last full week of the month. But, the colors won’t be at their peak until the second week of October.

If you decide to explore Aroostook County , you’ll find a lot of wilderness with changing leaves. However, here are a couple of places that we recommend you visit.

Aroostook State Park

Located in Presque Isle Maine, Aroostook State Park is an ideal spot to start discovering everything that the region has to offer. The park has 3 miles of trails through the fall colors. Or, you can enjoy the foliage from a canoe, kayak, or motorized boat.

Allagash Wilderness Waterway

Extending 92.5 miles through Aroostook County and into part of Piscataquis County, the Allagash Wilderness Waterway is a spectacular ribbon of streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes through the heart of Northern Maine. Boasted as a sportsman’s paradise, it’s also a fall foliage paradise of refuge and solace from everyday life.

Kennebec & Moose River Valley Fall Colors

According to the Maine fall foliage map, the leaves start changing in Kennebec and Moose River Valley region during mid-September, and partial color coverage is expected during the fourth week of the month. Then, the colors will peak during the second week of October.

There are tons of places to explore in the Kennebec and Moose River Valley region for fall fun. However, here are a couple of foliage routes that we recommend for leaf peeping.

Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway

Known as one of the best scenic drives in Maine , the Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway follows Route 201 between Solon and the Canada border. There are only a few small towns on this route, which is perfect for seeing the fall foliage.

In fact, the road is known for having some of the region’s most beautiful and unique scenery. We recommend stopping in Forks , at Lake Parlin, and at the Attean Overlook for panoramic views of the Attean Pond and Moose River.

Kennebec River Rail Trail

For 6.5 miles between Augusta and Gardiner Maine, the Kennebec River Rail Trail is a fantastic path for cycling, running, walking, and more with views of fall colors, the river, and wildlife. You’ll find the beginning of the trail underneath Memorial Bridge in Augusta.

Fall Foliage in The Maine Highlands

With differences in weather and altitude throughout The Maine Highlands — home to Mt. Katahdin — it’s a little harder to predict the fall colors. The Maine fall foliage map, though, shows that the leaves start changing in the east side of the region a week earlier than in the rest of the state.

Because of that, you can see partial canopy coverage the third week of September and peak color the first full week of October. On the other side of the region, you can see partial cover the last week of September and peak color the second week of October.

If you plan to explore The Maine Highlands and Mt. Katahdin , you might have trouble choosing a spot to observe the fall foliage. We have a couple of recommendations below.

Baxter State Park

Encompassing 209,644 acres of wilderness in Millinocket, Baxter State Park is one of the best places to see fall colors in the United States. The park is most famously home to Mt. Katahdin, the tallest mountain in the state. However, there are more than 40 other mountain peaks in the park.

Leading throughout Baxter State Park are more than 220 miles of hiking and biking trails. Some of the trails are easier than others, allowing you to choose how you want to go leaf peeping. The park offers opportunities for picnics, technical rock climbing, paddle boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing too.

Peaks-Kenny State Park

A little farther south and closer to Bangor, Peaks-Kenny State Park in Dover-Foxcroft Maine lies along Sebec Lake. This 839-acre park is a great place for camping, fishing, boating, and picnicking amid the fall leaves. And, there are 10 miles of hiking trails, some of which connect to each other.

From the park, you get a lovely view of Borestone Mountain across the lake. If you want more to explore, you could head to the mountain and hike the summit trail in the 1,600-acre nature sanctuary.

Downeast & Acadia Leaf Peeping

While the fall colors start to develop a week earlier in part of The Maine Highlands than in the rest of the state, the coastal Downeast and Acadia region is the opposite. Some of the fall leaves don’t show their true colors until after the rest of the region.

On the southwest side of Downeast and Acadia, the leaves display partial color the last week of October and peak color the second week of October. Then, you can see partial full colors in the northeast side of the region during the first week of October and peak colors during the third week of October.

The northeast end of the region doesn’t have as many towns, so there’s more open wilderness and fall colors. But, no matter which part you decide to explore, you’re sure to have a magnificent show. Here are two of our favorite places to visit during the peak season — one for each side of the region.

Acadia National Park

The fall foliage will emerge in the southwest end of the Downeast and Acadia region first, which is where you’ll find Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor Maine. With 4 million visitors every year, it’s one of the country’s 10 most popular national parks.

There are over 150 miles of hiking trails, 45 miles of historic carriage roads for bicycling, and 33 miles of motor roads throughout the park. Boating is permitted on the ponds and lakes on Mount Desert Island, and there are several other islands within the park that are worth visiting as well.

Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge

In Baring Maine, the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge is located in the northeast end of the region right next to the Canadian border. This nearly 30,000 acres of protected land features a hardwood forest of birch, aspen, fir, maple, and spruce trees. The more than 50 miles of roads and trails are excellent for leaf peeping, wildlife viewing, and taking photos.

Colorful Canopies of the Maine Lakes & Mountains

For 2023, the Maine fall foliage map predicts that the west side of the Maine Lakes and Mountains region will have stunning fall leaves sooner than the rest of the region.

Partial colors will emerge in the west during the third week of September and will peak the first full week of October. Then, in the east part of the region, you can see partial colors in the fourth week of September and peak colors in the second week of October.

As the name suggests, there are many lakes and mountains throughout the region, making it a picturesque destination during the fall. While the Rangeley Maine area is popular, we’ve chosen a couple of different spots for viewing the changing leaves — one on each side of the region.

Grafton Notch State Park

On the west side of the Maine Lakes and Mountains region, Grafton Notch State Park in Newry is a top-notch destination for recreational activities among the Mahoosuc Range of mountains. Here you can see impressive gorges and waterfalls, and the fall colors make the scenes even more breathtaking.

If you’re adventurous, the park is home to one of the most challenging sections of the Appalachian Trail. Hiking the steep summit trails rewards you with amazing views. On top of that, the Grafton Notch Scenic Byway runs through the park and mountain valley.

Mt. Blue State Park

In Weld Maine, on the east side of the region, Mt. Blue State Park is separated into two sections by Webb Lake. On the east side of the lake, Mt. Blue stands at 3,187 feet and is an ideal day hike for enjoying the fall foliage. You could go biking and horseback riding — among other activities — in the park too.

MidCoast Maine’s Fall Foliage

Featuring hundreds of miles of coastline and islands, MidCoast Maine is expected to have partial autumn colors the last full week of September. Then, the colors will peak during the second week of October. Combined with the harbors, the view is spectacularly charming.

Just driving through the region along Route 1 is a wonderful way to see the colors. While many places are worth visiting, a couple in Camden Maine really stand out to us.

Camden Hills State Park

A signature location in the MidCoast region, Camden Hills State Park offers sweeping views of the harbor and Penobscot Bay from atop Mt. Battie. Additionally, you get a fantastic view of Megunticook Lake and the surrounding fall leaves from Mt. Megunticook, the area’s tallest peak.

You can reach the Camden Hills summits via well-marked trails. Actually, this Maine state park has 20 paths for hiking and horseback riding. And, some of the trails are Natural Heritage Hikes with guided narratives about the area.

Camden Snow Bowl

While the Camden Snow Bowl sounds like it only offers winter activities, it’s actually an all-season recreational park with access to the Ragged Mountain Recreation Area. During the month of October, it offers chairlift rides up Ragged Mountain so that you get a one-of-a-kind view of the foliage.

Changing Leaves in Greater Portland & Casco Bay

According to the 2023 Maine fall foliage map, The Greater Portland and Casco Bay area will be partially covered in a colorful canopy the fourth week of September. Then, the canopy will reach peak color during the second week of October.

While the Greater Portland and Casco Bay region is the smallest in Maine, there are still tons of things to do and explore during the fall. Here are a couple of our top choices.

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park

Located on a small peninsula in Freeport Maine, Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park has a tranquil setting of varied ecosystems that feature hemlock and white pine forests. The park has 3.5 miles of trails, a picnic area, and watchable wildlife.

Bradbury Mountain State Park

A little farther inland, Bradbury Mountain State Park is an awesome place to have a picnic under a colorful canopy of fall trees. It’s a great park for watching birds and other wildlife too.

Since Route 9 passes between the 800-acre park, there are nine trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on each side. The Bradbury Mountain summit is on the west side, while the east side trails are popular among mountain bikers.

The Southern Maine Coast’s Fall Leaves

If you want to go leaf peeping on the Southern Maine Coast, you can enjoy a partial canopy of color during the last week of September. To see the colors at their peak, head to the region during the second week of October.

You can explore many things to do on the Southern Maine Coast . But, we have a couple of places where you don’t want to miss the glorious fall foliage.

Ferry Beach State Park

Encompassing 100 acres in Saco Maine, Ferry Beach State Park has a nearly 2-mile network of trails through varied ecosystems that feature vivid colors during the fall. One of the trails leads to the beach, giving you views of miles of sandy beach — all less than a 10-minute drive from downtown Saco.

Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region

Consisting of more than 10,000 acres, the Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region in York Maine consists of a unique, rich coastal forest with a diverse range of plant species.

It’s an excellent destination for leaf peeping, sightseeing, hiking and biking, and wildlife viewing. Some trails are open for ATV and horseback riding as well.

FAQs About Fall Foliage in Maine

When can you expect fall colors in maine.

The 2023 peak fall foliage Maine period lasts from the first week of October to the third week of October depending on where you go. Generally, the colors begin to change in the north during late September and spread south.

How long do fall colors last in Maine?

Usually, the peak fall colors in Maine last through October. Depending on the weather, though, the duration could be shorter or longer, even extending into November.

What is the best time to see fall colors in Maine?

Since the weather has such a major impact on the changing leaves, pinpointing the exact location of the best fall colors in Maine isn’t always easy. However, you can use the interactive map below to find optimal fall foliage for your travel dates.

Interactive 2023 Maine Fall Foliage Map

This fall foliage prediction map lets you see where and when the colors will peak in Maine this year.

You can move the slider at the bottom of the map [provided by SmokyMountains.com] to the right and left to adjust the time for when you plan to take your fall color journey. Then, you’ll see that most of Maine will have peak fall colors in mid-October .

Are you looking for even more things to do during fall in Maine ? You can’t go wrong with attending some of Maine’s fall events and festivals !

The VisitMaine.Net team is the small team of authors and editors that research and write our in-depth guides throughout the site and update past articles to make sure they're still super valuable to you. We have one goal: to help you fall more in love with the state of Maine!

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8 Beautiful Stops On A Maine Fall Foliage Road Trip

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Fall Travel
• Road Trips In The U.S.
• Seasonal Travel
• Types of Travel
• United States

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!

U.S. National Parks Tours

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Discover the Maine Coast on Private Excursions

Retreat to Peaceful, Less-Visited Deer Isle

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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.
• Our Quality-Value Guarantee Stands Behind Your Maine Adventure With Natural Habitat Adventures, you receive our exclusive guarantee, stating clearly that we will meet the lofty expectations we set forth in our promotional materials. We think this is the most ambitious guarantee made by any adventure travel company. Read our important promise .
• Feel Good About Your Carbon-Neutral Journey We care deeply about our planet, as we know you do. When you travel with us, the carbon emissions from your trip are 100% offset—including your round-trip flights from home. Natural Habitat Adventures has been the world’s first carbon-neutral travel company since 2007.

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The Ultimate Maine Fall Foliage Tour

Your Ultimate 324-mile 3-Day 2-Night Fall Foliage Tour

By virginia m. wright photographed by mark fleming.

This is the forgotten Maine. Lakes and woods. Mountains round, humble, and lush. There’s a ton of great culture and good, hardworking people — we say there’s a carpenter for every tree.  — Carol Noonan, musician and owner of Stone Mountain Arts Center, Brownfield.

◆ Shop for antiques in Cornish. Ten (at least) antiques shops are within walking distance of each other in this colonial village on the Ossipee River. Before resuming your journey, zip up High Road for spectacular views of the White Mountains.

◆ Pick apples at Five Fields Farm on the slope of Ministers Hill. Third-generation orchardist Tom Gyger grows McIntoshes, Cortlands, Macouns, Paula Reds, Honey Crisps, and more. Rte. 107, South Bridgton. 207-647-2425. fivefieldsski.com

◆ Take a beer break. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but Standard Gastropub, a working gas station, has 11 regional taps, a couple hundred varieties of bottled beers, and a small but well-executed menu of savory pub snacks. 233 Main St., Bridgton. 207-647-4100. Or shoot over to Lovell to visit the place BeerAdvocate proclaims “the best beer bar on the planet.” Ebenezer’s Pub has 35 Belgian beers on tap and more than 1,000 bottled beers. 44 Allen Rd., Lovell. 207-925-3200. ebenezerspub.net

◆ Grab some sandwiches from the Stow Corner Store on Route 113 (they make everything from a traditional roast turkey to tequila-lime shrimp with onions and banana peppers), then follow Route 113 to Evans Notch. Work up an appetite on The Roost, a 2-mile loop hike with outstanding views of the Wild River Valley. Picnic at the Wild River footbridge.

North on Route 117, from Cornish to West Baldwin (2 miles)

North on the Pequawket Trail Scenic Byway (Route 113), from West Baldwin to Fryeburg (18 miles)

North on Route 113, from Fryeburg to Gilead (30 miles)

East on Route 2 from Gilead to Bethel (13 miles)

Where to Sleep

With an abundance of B&Bs and motels, Bridgton and Bethel are your best options for lodging. Get suggestions from the Greater Bridgton Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce (207-647-3472. mainelakeschamber.com ) and the Bethel Area Chamber of Commerce (207-824-2282. bethelmaine.com ). There are several campgrounds in the area, including four White Mountain National Forest campgrounds on Route 113 in Evans Notch. 877-444-6777. forestcamping.com

[title maintitle=”Day 2″ subtitle=”Mountains and Waterfalls”] [R]oute 2 follows the Androscoggin River northeast from Bethel, a mix of woods and farm fields. You see farm stands selling pumpkins and other falls crops, plus lawn displays, which, with their jumble of peeling shutters, wooden chairs, wheelbarrows, and birdbaths, fall somewhere between an antiques shop and a junkyard. After you pass through the mill towns of Rumford and Mexico, you venture into a dramatically different landscape. The woods, dense with spruce, close in, and the terrain is rugged. Even the rivers have a harder edge: In Byron , the Swift River has carved Coos Canyon , a long, deep gorge with pools that make for great swimming if the temperature allows. A few miles north, one of the Swift’s tributaries plunges over 90-foot-high Angel Falls . The Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway begins near here, climbing to Height of Land , a spectacular overlook with views of Mooselookmeguntic and Upper Richardson lakes and the surrounding mountains. Looping around Rangeley Lake , the route is dotted with ponds, lakes, and viewpoints all the way to Smalls Falls, a series of cascades on the Sandy River in Township E.

We have moose. We have bear. We have these bright-blue lakes surrounded by big mountains. I call this place ‘my little Alaska.’ — Keith Deschambeault, pilot and owner of Acadian Seaplanes, Rangeley

◆ Stroll around the maple-edged Bethel Hill Common, a classic New England town green with a gazebo, then pop into the Bethel Historical Society’s 1821 O’Neil Robinson House and learn about “the Athens of Oxford County.” Broad Street on the Common. 207-824-2908. bethelhistorical.org

◆ Ride the Sunday River Chondola and see the Mahoosuc Mountains in all their golden glory. Sunday River Rd., Newry. 800-543-2754. sundayriver.com

◆ Go higher: Acadian Seaplanes offers both seaplane and helicopter tours of the Rangeley Lakes Region. 2640 Main St., Rangeley. 207-864-5307. acadianseaplanes.com

◆ Brush up on Maine’s sporting camp history at the Rangeley Outdoor Sporting Heritage Museum. Exhibits include a display of vintage, handcrafted equipment like fishing rods, paddles, creels, and canoes, as well as memorabilia from President Dwight Eisenhower’s 1955 Rangeley vacation. Rtes. 4 and 17, Oquossoc. 207-864-3091. rangeleyoutdoormuseum.org

Northeast on Route 2, from Bethel to Mexico (24 miles)

North on Route 17, from Mexico to Oquossoc (36 miles)

Southeast to Smalls Falls along the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway (Route 4), returning via South Shore Road (39 miles)

A wide range of lodging, from B&Bs and hotels to sporting camps, cabins, and campgrounds can be found in the Rangeley area. The Rangeley Lakes Chamber of Commerce maintains a comprehensive list. 207-864-5571. rangeleymaine.com

Fill up your gas tank and stock your cooler: the road from Solon to Jackman is so wild and isolated that it can make the Rangeley Lakes seem settled and tame. For more than 25 miles, the Old Canada Road Scenic Byway hugs the Kennebec River, at times so wide it looks more like a lake (and, in fact, it is just above Moscow , where the river has been dammed to form Wyman Lake). The riverbanks are heavily forested, and the towns — what few there are — are mere whispers. You are on what the locals call Moose Alley, so named for the number of moose spotted along this route (countless moose-crossing road signs, some with flashing lights, warn drivers to be alert). In Jackman, you turn east on the Moosehead Lake Scenic Byway, following a chain of lakes — Long Pond, Brassua, and Moosehead, all the way to the rustic resort village of Greenville .

The Moosehead Lake region is so wild, the scenery so spectacular. We’re in the heart of two great whitewater rivers, so you can go rafting in either direction, and there are beautiful waterfalls you can reach on a nice leisurely hike. — Jessica Hargreaves, Northeast Whitewater

◆ Float for foliage. Northern Outdoors’ whitewater rafting trips on the Kennebec extend into October. 1771 US Route 201, The Forks, Maine, 800-765-7238. northernoutdoors.com

◆ Cruise to the tip of the Kineo peninsula, where Mount Kineo, a 700-foot monolith, rises over Moosehead Lake. The Kineo Shuttle makes the 10-minute trip from Rockwood Public Landing four times a day until October 12. 207-534-9012. greenvilleme.com

◆ Go on a moose safari. Northeast Whitewater’s Registered Maine Guides take visitors to the gangly beasts’ favorite haunts via van or canoe. 142 Moosehead Lake Rd., Greenville. 207-695-0151, 888-484-3317. mainemoosewatching.com

◆ Find your inner sportsman at Kamp Kamp. This Greenville fixture captures the North Woods spirit with camp furnishings, plaid wool shirts, balsam pillows, fishing lures, and taxidermy mounts. Where else are you going to find a salmon leaping over a moose antler? 3 Lily Bay Rd., Greenville. 207-695-0789. kampkamp.com

East on Route 4, from Rangeley to Strong (29 miles)

East on Route 234, from Strong to North Anson (19 miles)

North on Route 201A, from North Anson to Solon (8 miles)

North on Old Canada Road Scenic Byway (Route 201), from Solon to Jackman (57 miles)

East on the Moosehead Lake Scenic Byway (Routes 6/15), from Jackman to Greenville (49 miles)

Get the best of Maine Travel, Food, Culture, and Homes & Gardens every month, with a subscription to Down East , the Best of Maine. Gift subscriptions available.

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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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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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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.

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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Experience Autumn's Splendor With Maine's Fall Train Rides (2024)

Last revised: December 30, 2023

By:  Adam Burns

The Downeast Scenic Railroad offers the only dedicated fall foliage trains in Maine.  However, both the Maine Narrow-Gauge Railroad & Museum, in Portland, and the Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway Museum in Alna continue to host excursions for the public through the changing colors and are worth checking out!

Other Fall Foliage Locations

Maine is known for its stunning natural beauty, and one of the most magical times to experience it is during the fall season. If you are interested in viewing the state's fall colors in ways other than by train, here are some of the best locations.

Acadia National Park

Located on the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park is one of the most popular destinations in the state for fall foliage viewing. The park's winding roads offer stunning views of the changing leaves against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.

Baxter State Park

Baxter State Park is a remote wilderness area that offers some of the most spectacular views of fall foliage in Maine. Located in the northern part of the state, the park is home to Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine, and offers miles of hiking trails that wind through forests ablaze with fall colors.

Rangeley Lakes Region

The Rangeley Lakes Region in western Maine is a popular destination for leaf peepers. With its rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and quaint small towns, this area offers some of the most breathtaking views of fall foliage in the state.

Bethel is a charming New England village located in western Maine, known for its stunning fall foliage. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the Sunday River, hike one of the many nearby mountains, or simply stroll through the town and enjoy the stunning autumn scenery.

Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake, located in northern Maine, is the state's largest lake and offers some of the best views of fall foliage in the region. Visitors can take a scenic drive around the lake, go hiking in the nearby mountains, or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.

Camden Hills State Park

Camden Hills State Park, located on the coast of Maine, offers stunning views of the fall colors against the backdrop of the ocean. Visitors can hike the park's many trails, including Mount Battie, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a picturesque seaside town located in southern Maine that is known for its stunning fall foliage. Visitors can take a scenic drive along the coast, stroll through the town's many shops and galleries, or simply enjoy the breathtaking views from one of the town's many parks and beaches.

In conclusion, Maine offers some of the most breathtaking fall foliage views in the country, and these locations are just a few of the best places to experience the magic of the season. Whether you're looking for a scenic drive, a hike through the woods, or a relaxing seaside getaway, Maine has something for everyone. 

Guide Information

Downeast Scenic Railroad

(Ellsworth) : The Downeast Scenic Railroad is owned by the Downeast Rail Heritage Trust, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization formed in 2005.  The attraction officially launched in July, 2010.

The railroad is a beloved attraction that offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of the region while riding aboard a historic train. It is a living testament to the state's rich railroad history, which dates back to the mid-1800s, and has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Downeast Scenic operates on the former Calais Branch of the Maine Central Railroad, which was originally built in 1886 to transport goods and people between Calais and Princeton. Today, visitors can hop aboard a vintage train and travel along a 10-mile stretch of track, taking in stunning views of the forests, streams, and rivers that make up Maine's unique landscape.

The railroad offers a variety of excursions, ranging from short trips to full-day experiences. The most popular trip is the two-hour round trip from the village of Ellsworth to the quaint town of Washington Junction. Along the way, visitors will see beautiful views of the Union River, as well as forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife.

In late September each year the railroad hosts " Autumn Gold Train Ride " event, allowing guests to view the region's fall colors by train.  The ride lasts nearly 2 hours and is available for all ages!

Maine Narrow-Gauge Railroad & Museum

(Portland) :   Based in Portland this organization tells the history of Maine's "Two Footers" and operates a short, 1.5 mile segment of two-foot gauge railroad along the Casco Bay waterfront. 

They have three small tank engines preserved, one of which is operational; Bridgton & Saco River 2-4-4T #7 built by the Baldwin Locomotive Works in 1913. 

Each October they host the  Pumpkin Train  where the kids can enjoy a train ride and pick out a pumpkin while partaking in refreshments consisting of hot cider and cookies. 

For reasons not entirely known to this day, 2-foot gauge railroads were prolific throughout the Pine Tree State.  They primarily served the logging industry although there were several common-carrier lines as well including the largest, the Sandy River & Rangeley Lakes Railroad, which was formed in 1908 through the merger of seven smaller systems.

Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway Museum

(Alna) :  The Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway Museum is a unique and fascinating attraction that transports visitors back in time to the golden age of railroads. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the 2-foot, narrow-gauge railway that once ran through the state.

The Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway was originally constructed in the late 1800s as a means of transporting goods and people between the coastal town of Wiscasset and the inland city of Waterville. The railway was later extended to reach the small town of Farmington, and played an important role in the development of the region for many years.

Today, the Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway Museum operates just over 3 miles of the original WW&F south of Alna.

One of the highlights of the museum is the fully restored steam locomotive, Portland Company #9, which was originally built in 1891. Visitors can climb aboard the locomotive and take a ride through the museum's grounds, experiencing the thrill of steam-powered transportation firsthand.  The museum remains open through the fall season, allowing guests the chance to see the region's fall colors.  

SteamLocomotive.com

Wes Barris's SteamLocomotive.com is simply the best web resource on the study of steam locomotives. 

It is difficult to truly articulate just how much material can be found at this website. 

It is quite staggering and a must visit!

© Copyright 2007-2024 American-Rails.com. All written content, photos, and videos copyright American-Rails.com (unless otherwise noted).

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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

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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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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.

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.

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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 for Autumn

The phrase “fall foliage” is practically synonymous with the Northeast.

A visit to a national wildlife refuge national wildlife refuge A national wildlife refuge is typically a contiguous area of land and water managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service  for the conservation and, where appropriate, restoration of fish, wildlife and plant resources and their habitats for the benefit of present and future generations of Americans. Learn more about national wildlife refuge is a wonderful way for you and your family to connect with and enjoy nature as leaves turn from summer greens to autumn reds, yellows, pinks, purples and oranges. There are 72 national wildlife refuges in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Northeast Region, which stretches from Virginia and West Virginia up to Maine. Most of those refuges are gorgeous places for fall walks. Fourteen of them are shown on this map. Let’s take a short photo tour of a few of them.

“Fall is that magical time on the refuge when the oppressive summer heat has finally abated, the frenetic nesting season has passed, and the natural world takes a quiet, reflective pause,” says  Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge  visitor services manager Ann Marie Chapman. “The refuge offers a feast for all the senses: dazzling colors, delicious scents, soft breezes and a quiet chatter all provide the attentive visitor with an enchanting experience.”

The White Oak Trail through woodlands features scenic vistas of the Carmans River and wetland overlooks.

Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge consists of several units in four states that offer views of breathtaking fall foliage in the Connecticut River Valley of New England.

The Mollie Beattie Bog Boardwalk and Trail near Island Pond, Vermont; the Mud Pond Trail off State Route 116 near Jefferson, New Hampshire; and the Fort River Birding and Nature Trail in Hadley, Massachusetts, are accessible to all visitors, including those with mobility challenges.

“You might see American woodcock, American black duck, barn swallows, bobolink and American kestrel,” says visitor service manager Jennifer Lapis. “Other animals seen in these areas include wild turkeys, moose, painted turtle and white-tailed deer.” 

“The crisp scent of evergreens in the air, a mosaic of colors that are painted for the beholder, and songs of birds in the background signal fall is here,”  Canaan Valley National Wildlife Refuge  manager Ron Hollis says. “Fall holds many different colors, fall flowers, and hardy evergreens for the hiker, artist, photographer or child to enjoy.”

The West Virginia refuge features more than 31 miles of trails through its high-elevation wetlands, grasslands and forests. The peak time to see the beauty of the Canaan Valley is mid-September to early October, Hollis says. He adds that early morning or late afternoon are his favorite times to walk the trails – when the sun is rising or setting.

Brooklynites, Manhattanites, residents of Queens, the Bronx, Staten Island, Newark and Jersey City: Do you want to get an infusion of nature this fall? Consider an outing to  Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge , just 65 miles northwest of Times Square on the New Jersey-New York border.

“Crisp, cool air, colorful hues, frosted mornings and wildlife abound to make fall a great time to visit,” says wildlife refuge specialist Chelsea Utter. She recommends walking the 2.5-mile Liberty Loop Trail: “A section of the trail overlaps with the famous Appalachian Trail that runs from Georgia to Maine, so visitors can say they hiked a national wildlife refuge  and  a portion of the Appalachian Trail.”

“Returning waterfowl by the thousands use  Missisquoi National Wildlife Refuge  wetlands,” refuge manager Ken Sturm says about autumn. “Cooler temperatures and spectacular fall foliage make exploring the 7.5 miles of refuge trail even more rewarding and a delight for the nature photographer.”

Sturm is partial to the 2.5-mile Jeep Trail along the Missisquoi River because it showcases the largest and most intact silver maple-sensitive fern floodplain forest in Vermont. “Visitors will have the opportunity to see a variety of waterfowl, often white-tailed deer and almost certainly a few bald eagles,” he says.

Note: The Jeep Trail is closed in the second half of November for hunting season and from April 1 through August 1 for migratory bird breeding season.

Will you be in Philly this fall? Take a walk along the boardwalk or a trail at  John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum .

The refuge is about 10 miles south of downtown, just across I-95 from Philadelphia International Airport. It features 10 miles of walking trails and 4.5 miles of canoe/kayak trails through tidal Darby Creek.

“It is difficult to pick a favorite trail on the refuge, as both the water trail and the trail along Warbler Woods will make you pause with the colors they bring,” says refuge manager Lamar Gore.

In this  90-second video , young Philadelphian Kevin Tran explains why the refuge is a great place to visit year-round. “Thirty minutes away, I don’t see red foxes. I don’t see river otters or bald eagles,” says Tran. “It’s such a nice place to be.”

“Fall at  Umbagog National Wildlife Refuge  is a splash of colors, wildlife and chilly temperatures. As waterfowl migration starts, the mountains surrounding Umbagog Lake turn brilliant shades of red, yellow and orange intermixed with the green of spruce and fir trees,” says refuge manager Paul Casey. “This is the perfect time to hike the Roost Trail overlooking the Magalloway River or better yet paddle the Magalloway River and see the wildlife up close.”

The moderately difficult, 1.1-mile walking trail winds through forest land above the Magalloway River. The paddling trail launches at the refuge headquarters and leads to Umbagog Lake and the Androscoggin River. Along either route, you might see moose, deer, eagles and other birds.

At  Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge  in western New York, “the vibrant colors of seasonal change, along with the constant hum from duck and geese on the marshes, lets you know that fall has arrived,” says refuge manager Tom Roster. Thousands of migrating waterfowl gather on the refuge marshes, visible from four overlooks and five trails.

“Particularly during September and into October, the  Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge  landscape becomes a veritable poster child for the classic fall foliage look that New England is so well known for,” says visitor services manager Matt Poole. He recommends the William Furber Ferry Way Trail, a two-mile loop that passes through forest, goes along a beaver wetland and open fields, and offers a beautiful view of Great Bay itself. Deer, turkey, and many birds – both resident and migratory – are frequently encountered along the trail.

“ Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge  gives you a glimpse of what Maine looked like before the high-rises, before highways, before residents and tourists, back even to the time before Maine was settled and fall leaves and wildlife were the only tenants,” says former refuge intern Phoebe Clark.

Along the Carson Trail near refuge headquarters in Wells, Maine, there is a broad range of wildlife: chipmunks, squirrels, songbirds, Canada geese, wild turkeys, hidden raptors and the occasional deer, muskrat, raccoon or rabbit. “Because winter is fast approaching, wildlife that hibernate are extremely active as they forage for the months ahead,” Clark says. “The fall season also begins owl nesting, so the owls are active and often visible while creating their nests, mating, and incubating.”

Four other Northeast refuges that offer gorgeous autumn tableaus are:

• Occoquan Bay National Wildlife Refuge , 25 miles south of Washington, DC, in Virginia
• Sunkhaze Meadows National Wildlife Refuge , 12 miles northwest of Orono, Maine
• Patuxent Research Refuge , between Washington, DC, and Baltimore, Maryland
• Wapack National Wildlife Refuge , 25 miles northwest of Nashua, New Hampshire

To find a refuge near you, please go to the Visit the National Wildlife Refuge System page and scroll down to the interactive map.

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