This Dreamy Road Trip Will Take You To The Best Fall Foliage In All Of Maine
This summer wasn’t exactly the wonderland of warm weather that Mainers were hoping for. While we had some top-notch days, we can’t forget the ones that started out with a chill and fog that wouldn’t lift. And that rain. While we did get there eventually, we can’t help but feel like this Labor Day weekend came a little too fast this year.
But, since we don’t have much say over what mother nature does, we’ve just chosen to accept it and head into this next season with gusto! If you’re in that same frame of mind, we suggest starting with one of our famous road trips. This is dedicated to Maine’s best fall foliage viewing spots. Hop in the car, fill up the tank and enjoy the destinations by following this map with full directions.
To find out when to take this trip, head to the bottom of the article for a link to our fall foliage map!
Start your trip in Kennebunkport, located in York County.
Most people don't think of Southern Maine's Kennebunkport when they think of fall foliage, but we think this is a great place to start your trip. In addition to the beautiful foliage found around town, you'll have access to the coastal parts of Maine that are absolutely lovely any time of year. And, there are plenty of ways to get lost in the woods here as well. Try the The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge in nearby Wells for an added dose of fall colors.
Next, it's on to Bethel in Oxford County.
Bethel is located west of Kennebunkport, near the New Hampshire border. Its close proximity to Grafton Notch State Park makes it an obvious choice to not only see Maine's fall foliage, but be absolutely surround by it! While in town, make sure to visit Screw Auger Falls, Gulf Hagas and the very-photographable Sunday River Covered Bridge.
Rangeley, in Franklin County, is our next stop!
Rangeley is one of our favorite fall-destinations! The entire Rangeley Lakes region is gorgeous this time of year, and camps are a bit easier to come by now that the summer crowd has cleared out. While you're here, plan to check out the foliage at Bald Head Mountain, Saddleback Mountain, Small Falls and the incredible Height of Land.
It's time to eat: Head to The Shed BBQ!
We don't recommend you pass through the Rangeley Lakes area without a stop for some BBQ at The Shed. They're located at 2647 Main Street and they serve us a pretty great meat-filled plate for lunch!
Next up is The Forks, in Somerset County.
The Forks is known to be a great launch point for whitewater rafting. To enjoy the foliage from a different vantage point, head to one of the local shops for a day trip. This is also where you'll have a chance to see one of Maine's largest waterfalls, Moxie Falls. Once you've enjoyed the outdoors, grab a beer at the Kennebec River Brewery in town.
Get ready to rest your weary bones in Rockwood, in Somerset County.
This will be your last stop for the day, and the sunlight is likely to be perfect for golden hour photos at Moosehead Lake. Just make sure to arrive in enough time to explore Mount Kineo's trails, which are great for both beginner's and those up for a challenge.
Spend the night at The Birches Resort.
Enjoy a night's stay here and have the option of going from rustic to completely luxury. They're located at 281 Birches Road in Rockwood. Call them for a reservation on (800) 825-9453.
Wake up and head to Baxter State Park in Millinocket!
This is a grand first stop for the second day and one that might be the best! There's not much we can say about this crown jewel of Maine's park system, but do plan to spend the entire morning and early afternoon exploring the trails.
Next, it's on to Bar Harbor, in Hancock County
The only thing worthy of following Baxter State Park is Maine's only National Park - Acadia! You should plan on arriving in Bar Harbor in the late afternoon to enjoy the town's shops and restaurants. Use this time to plan your morning trip exploring the outdoors!
Try to get a room at the Acacia House Inn, near downtown Bar Harbor.
It might be hard, as this wonderful inn is quite small. But, it's worth it for the ambiance. They're located at 6 High Street in Bar Harbor. Call them for a reservation on
(207) 288-8122.
Wake up and head into Acadia!
Make your way to the park and ride through the 57 miles of Carriage Roads, created by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. This is a Maine must-do when it comes to fall foliage!
Next head south to unexpected Blue Hill, in Hancock County.
You're nearing the end of your trip and there's still so much to enjoy! Next up is Blue Hill, which will be a simple relaxing time in a small coastal town. Check out Blue Hill Books before grabbing a coffee in town and hitting the road again towards your second-to-last stop on the trip.
Camden Hill State Park is up next!
This leisurely stop is more of a drive than a real stop. Make your way up to the top of the hill in the park and enjoy the views of this coastal, bustling town.
And, finally, your trip comes to an end in Rockland.
Pull into town knowing that you've seen the best of the fall foliage that Maine has to offer. Take a walk out onto Rockland Harbor Breakwater Light for the best view of the changing leaves. You can also enjoy the Farnsworth Art Museum here. Another great viewing spot for foliage is Birch Point Beach State Park.
As promised, click here to take a look at our recent article telling you the best time for Maine’s 2017 fall foliage viewing.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.