Explore the many different sides of Maine

Region: Aroostook County 

Maine’s mountains, rivers, lakes, and coastline are steeped in culture and tradition. From camping to kayaking, to farmer’s markets and museums, the state has something for every type of traveler looking for a summer escape. Travel the vast and varied terrain by car, bike, boat, or foot and discover stunning views at every turn.

Set in the northernmost region of the state, with ninety-two miles of crystal-clear water, the Allagash River in Aroostook County is a bucket list destination for many paddlers. Whether you’re a seasoned pro ready to conquer the entire route or a first-timer looking for a scenic day trip, there’s something for everyone on the Allagash.

Plan a week-long guided run down the river with Allagash Canoe Trips. Travel pristine lakes and rapids, portage over falls and dams, and camp on the peaceful banks with a Registered Maine Guide. The outfitter will provide all major canoe and camping equipment, and cook impressive meals like fluffy pancakes with homemade syrup over an open fire to fuel your adventures.

For a self-guided day trip over calm waters, the Allagash Guide Service has just the thing. Operating out of a lodge in the town of Allagash, the outfitter offers canoe rentals and shuttle services to paddlers of all levels. Get dropped off at the Michaud Farms access point and paddle the 17 miles back to town at your own leisurely pace, stopping along the way for the myriad of picture-perfect photo opportunities.

Region: DownEast & Acadia

Often referred to as the gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is a destination in its own right. This seashore community not only boasts stunning mountain views but also appeals to anyone looking for quintessential small-town charm with a dash of coastal beauty and outdoor adventure mixed in.

Grab a scoop of homemade, refreshing ice cream, and stroll down the shore path over to Frenchman Bay, where whales, puffins, and other wildlife can be spotted, whether from shore or via a tour. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the Wabanaki Nations at the Abbe Museum. Then, order a lobster roll at Thurston’s Lobster Pound in the nearby town of Bernard while watching boat crews bring fresh catch straight from the water to the restaurant’s tank.

Two hours before low tide, head down to Bridge Street and walk across the sandbar to Bar Island, part of Acadia National Park. Hike up to the observation point for panoramic views of Bar Harbor with the Champlain and Cadillac Mountains in the background, but be sure to check the tide times and schedule your return before the water covers the path to town.

For an iconic coastal stay, check into the Bar Harbor Inn. Built in 1887, the historic but completely renovated property overlooks Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands. But if you’re up for something a little more unexpected, the Terramor Outdoor Resort offers award-winning glamping with a free shuttle bus that takes you to and from town.

Region: DownEast & Acadia

The DownEast village of Lubec is the easternmost town in the United States. Before the sun floods the town in an orange glow, visit the West Quoddy Head Light to watch the first rays of sunlight touch down on American soil. Originally built in 1808 by order of President Thomas Jefferson, the candy-striped tower, visitor center, and surrounding state park are open for tours and exploration during warmer months. Visit on a Saturday in July or August and you may even be able to climb to the top of the tower.

Grab your passport and espresso from Narrow Escape and drive over the bridge to Campobello Island in New Brunswick, Canada. Explore the 2,800 acres of coastal headland, rocky shores, and mossy bogs of Roosevelt Campobello International Park. An exceptional example of international cooperation between the U.S. and Canada, the park preserves the historic summer home of FDR. Take a guided tour of the cottage, sip on Eleanor’s Tea and enjoy lunch at the Prince Cafe.

Region: Greater Portland & Casco Bay 

Just south of Portland, the town of Scarborough is home to the largest salt marsh in the state. The 3,100-acre estuary is owned and managed by the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and is a haven for the region’s most unique birds. Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle down the Dunstan River to take in the natural beauty of the marsh and the surrounding uplands. Boat rentals are first-come, first-serve but reservations are available on weekends.

Off the coast of Portland, some 200 islands of varying size and habitability offer rugged coastline views and adventure that feels worlds away. To get a closer look at island life, hop on the Mailboat. Run by Casco Bay Lines, the boat has carried passengers, freight and you guessed it, mail, to the islands for over 150 years. Pack your cooler, snag a spot on the deck, and watch Portland’s waterfront at work. The 2.5-3.5 hour cruise stops at Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Long, Cliff, and Chebeague islands to deliver cargo and pick up mail. While passengers are required to stay aboard, the captain will provide interesting tidbits at each stop and call out historic landmarks along the way.

Region: Kennebec Valley 

Some of the country’s best whitewater rafting awaits in Maine. From May to mid-October, outfitters offer heart-pounding runs down class III, IV, and V rapids almost every day.

For an incredibly fun adventure for all skill levels, paddle the Class IV Kennebec River Gorge with North County Rivers. It’s by far the most popular rafting trip in New England and it’s easy to see why. The 12-mile stretch of river is deep and warm with big wave trains that will leave you smiling from start to finish. You can also customize your trip to include fly fishing, ATV, and wildlife watching tours.

If you’re looking for a more technical and challenging run, the Northern Outdoors offers some serious thrills on the Penobscot River. Taking off from the Katahdin Adventure Basecamp in Millinocket, the 14-mile run travels through lush forest and steep-walled gorges, over class 5 rapids, and down a 12-foot drop at Nesowadnehunk Falls. But don’t forget to look up—the river crosses under the Appalachian Trail and floats right past Katahdin, the tallest mountain in the state.

Region: Lakes & Mountains 

The Lakes & Mountains region of Maine is chock full of scenic byways that run along picturesque towns, swift-moving rivers, and lush mountainsides. Well-traveled by skiers and snowmobilers, the High Peaks Scenic Byway stretches from the historic mill town of Kingfield, beyond Sugarloaf Mountain to the Canadian Border and offers spectacular views year-round. Roam along the Carrabassett River, get stunning views of Mount Abraham and the Bigelow Range, and wind through the 200-year-old forest of Cathedral Pines.

For a leisurely ride along a rural two-lane road, wander the Grafton Notch Scenic Byway. Start in Newry, just north of the Sunday River Ski Area, travel along Bear River, and stop at Grafton Notch State Park for a picnic and a short hike to impressive waterfalls and gorges.

Spend a day traveling the 52 miles of the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway. Circle the lake before scaling the Appalachian Mountain ridgeline up to the Height of Land overlook. One of the most incredible viewpoints in all of Maine, the spot offers panoramic views of the Mooselookmeguntic Lake, Upper Richardson Lake, and Toothaker Island. Keep an eye out for passing moose as they graze along the roadside.

Regions: Lakes & Mountains

Go back in time and tradition at one of Maine’s historic sporting camps. Since the mid-1800s, the camps have provided lodging, home-cooked meals, and community for hunters, fishermen (and women), and nature enthusiasts of all kinds.

Stay in the Western Mountains at Tim Pond Wilderness Camps, the oldest, continuously operated sporting camp in the country. Fly fish for native brook trout, hunt for upland birds, and share meals and swap stories with fellow visitors in the main lodge. If you want to learn to fly fish or improve your skills, Tim Pond also offers a fly fishing school each summer with an award-winning Maine Guide.

For a family-friendly escape, book a cabin at Grant's Kennebago Camps. Day rates include three hearty meals and housekeeping, and children 6 and under stay free. Rent kayaks and canoes on Kennebago lake, fish for trout and salmon, look for moose, and enjoy the unhurried pace of camp life.

Region: MidCoast

Possibly the most iconic light tower in Maine, The Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Bristol, is the image on the Maine state quarter and just one of the few tourable lighthouses that is still in operation today.

Grab your camera and plan a visit to the park open 9 am-5 pm every day from mid-May to mid-October. Take in the spectacular views and interesting metamorphic rock formations that stripe the shore. Stop by The Fisherman's Museum in the original keeper’s house and see what life was like for local fishermen in the 1800s. Climb to the top of the tower (weather and season permitting) and then visit the Pemaquid Art Gallery to see original works from regionally- and nationally-recognized artists.

Next stop: Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf in New Harbor. Pull up a stool at the raw bar or snag a picnic table and enjoy a lobster roll while watching the fishing boats at work on the harbor. For oyster-lovers, Damariscotta (the oyster capital of New England) is a must-visit. Tour the Glidden Point Oyster Farm then sit on the patio and shuck your own—freshly grown and harvested right from the Damariscotta River.

Region: Maine Beaches 

With 30 miles of white sand beaches and seven unique resort towns in the Maine Beaches region, there is no shortage of places to dip your toes in. For one of the most stunning and accessible beaches in the area, head to Ogunquit. Named by the Abenaki Tribe, Ogunquit means “a beautiful place by the sea” and the town lives up to its name. Grab a towel and your beach chair and stake out a spot along the three-mile stretch of soft, white sand. To escape the crowds, venture one mile north of downtown to Footbridge Beach.

For a more nostalgia-evoking experience, drive 20 miles south of Portland to the coastal resort town of Old Orchard Beach. The seven-mile stretch of ocean sand is home to New England’s only beachfront amusement park, Palace Playland. With a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, and carnival games, the park will take you straight back to your childhood.

Region: Highlands 

Nestled eighty miles north of Bangor, in the Maine Highlands, is the magnificent Baxter State Park. The 210,000-acre wilderness haven is home to Maine’s highest peak, Katahdin. For those looking for a challenge, hike the 5.2 mile Hunt trail with an over 4,000-foot elevation gain to the mount’s summit. The strenuous 8-12 hour trek will take you past Katahdin stream falls, over boulders on Hunt Spur, and across the Tableland Plateau. Be sure to come prepared. Reserve your parking spot ahead of time, bring ample water and supplies, and leave no trace.

For a shorter, more relaxed hike, hop on the Appalachian trail near Daicey Pond and trek 2.3 miles (out and back) to Big and Little Niagara Falls. Depending on the season and recent rainfall, the falls can be raging or offer a serene place to picnic and swim. Either way, don’t forget your camera and swimsuit, just in case.