The Top 10 Can’t-Miss Scenic Drives in Maine

The state of Maine has many characteristics and qualities that make it stand out from other states. For instance, Maine is known for its delicious lobster. Here, lobster is not only cheaper since it’s plentiful, but it is also fresh from the cold waters of the Gulf of Maine.

In fact, Maine lobster is so good that it is known as a culinary delight around the world.

Another plentiful crop Maine is well-known for is its blueberries. Maine is responsible for about 90 percent of America’s blueberry harvest each year.

However, food is not the only thing Maine is known for. This state is home to more than 60 lighthouses and beaches galore with 3,478 miles of coastline. Moose are also plentiful here with an estimated 76,000 of these creatures in the state.

Maine is also famous for its role in American history as well as producing many successful authors such as Stephen King and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow.

A drive through this state would likely reveal Maine’s scenic mountains, historic landmarks, beaches, blueberry fields, moose, and other beautiful wildlife.

If you’re looking to tour Maine soon and want to prepare by getting the best auto insurance, start comparison shopping today by entering your ZIP code above!

What kind of car insurance do you need in Maine?

Like most states, Maine requires its drivers to maintain certain types and limits of auto insurance coverage. Maine is classified as an at-fault state and requires its drivers to have medical payments insurance of at least $2,000 per person.

In addition, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is required.

Minimum liability coverage is as follows:

• $50,000 for the injury or death of a single person
• $100,000 total for a single accident
• $25,000 for any property damage

– Unique Coverage Facts about Maine

Maine has some of the highest minimum coverage amounts that a driver is required to carry. A single combined liability policy of $125,000 is also acceptable under Maine law.

When in Maine, be aware of wildlife, moose in particular.

With that said, if you are driving in Maine, you may want to consider optional coverages, such as comprehensive. Among other things, comprehensive coverage will help pay for damages if you hit a moose or other wildlife.

The Top 10 Scenic Drives in Maine

#1 — Acadia National Park Scenic Drive

Length of Route: 27 miles
Highlight: Mountain and Coastline Views

The Acadia National Park Scenic Drive is best driven between April and November. Located in Bar Harbor, this 27-mile loop explores the biologically diverse Acadia National Park.

Part mountainous and part coastline, this drive is a spectacular way to feast your eyes on all that Maine has to offer.

Here, you will find endless opportunities for recreation such as camping, rock climbing, and hiking. This drive also offers ample nature study and photography opportunities.

#2 — Mid-Coast Scenic Drive

Length of Route: 123 miles
Highlight: Tourist Attractions, Historic Landmarks, Views of the Bay, River Channels, and Seaside Life

The Mid-Coast Scenic Drive offers 123 miles of narrow, rocky peninsulas as well as bays and river channels along the Atlantic Ocean. You will get great views of:

• Serene seaside landscape
• Isolated beaches
• Summer cottages
• Picturesque lighthouses
• Fishing villages
• Tucked away coves
• Many offshore islands

If you have the time, stop and visit one or more of the many tourist attractions and historical sights such as:

• Pemaquid Point
• Bowdoin College
• Boothbay Harbor
• Maine Maritime Museum
• Basin Cove Falls
• Fort William Henry

#3 — Baxter State Park Scenic Drive

Length of Route: 94 miles
Highlight: Views of Mount Katahdin, Maine’s North Woods Region, and Wildlife

If you prefer more of a backroad drive, you will want to take Baxter State Park Scenic Drive out of Millinocket. This 94-mile road winds around Mount Katahdin and Maine’s highest peak.

Running across Maine’s North Woods region, this drive takes you through a magnificent wilderness in Baxter State Park.

You may get the opportunity to view moose, deer, bear, or other wildlife, and you will also have access to fishing, rock climbing, campsites, ponds, waterfalls, and unforgettable scenic views. Many take this drive in the autumn to enjoy the fall foliage.

#4 — Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway

Length of Route: 52 miles
Highlight: Coos Canyon, Angel Falls, Recreational Activities, and Camping Sites

The Rangeley Lakes Drive covers 52 miles and can last as little as two or three hours, or it can be enjoyed over an entire day. You can stop and enjoy many recreational activities like:

• Biking
• Boating
• Skiing
• Wildlife viewing
• Golf
• Hiking
• Canoeing

Camping sites are also available throughout the drive. If you are feeling adventurous and have the time, you may want to check out one of the many side trips such as Coos Canyon or Angel Falls.

This drive is another favorite in the fall for its brilliant colors, however, it can be enjoyed in all four seasons. You may even spot a moose or two.

#5 — Acadia All-American Road

Length of Route: 40 miles
Highlight: Lighthouses, Beaches, Islands, Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond House, Thunder Hole, Sieur de Monts Spring

Acadia All-American Road is 40 miles in length, however, plan on at least three hours for travel time.

Plan for extra time if you take one of the side trips to Cadillac Mountain, Isle au Haut, Jordan Pond House, Thunder Hole, or Sieur de Monts Spring.

Although, there is plenty to see and do on the main drive such as:

• Skiing
• Wildlife viewing
• Swimming
• Hiking
• Foliage viewing
• Island exploring
• Fishing

You can also stop to visit the many lighthouses or relax on the beach.

#6 — Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway

Length of Route: 78 miles
Highlight: Beautiful Fall Colors, Quaint Villages, Views of Mountains, Wildlife, and Natural Waterways

If you are searching for beautiful fall colors or want to see one of Maine’s many moose, take the Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway.

Stretching for 78 miles between Solon and the Canadian border, this drive is perfect for those who truly appreciate the outdoors.

You can stop and take your time on your drive by visiting the quaint villages that provide food, lodging, guides, and outfitting, no matter what your outdoor pleasure is.

Along this route, you will be treated to views of mountain vistas and endless views of natural waterways. The many scenic pullouts along the way let you stop to view wildlife or simply take advantage of a photographic opportunity.

#7 — Schoodic National Scenic Byway

Length of Route: 29 miles
Highlight: Schoodic Point, Lighthouses, Blueberry Bushes, Wildflowers, and Bird-Watching

Located near Acadia, the Schoodic National Scenic Byway is 29 miles in length and will take approximately two hours to complete. Unless of course, you stop to partake in viewing wildlife and foliage, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, or bicycling.

You may also enjoy lengthening your trip with one of the many side trips such as Quarry Wharf, Tunk Mountain, Prospect Harbor Light, and Channing Chapel Public Library.

The main road will take you through the only mainland section of Acadia National Park and the stunning Schoodic Point. There are many lighthouses, blueberry bushes, wildflowers, as well as osprey and eagles to feast your eyes on during this drive.

#8 — The Bold Coast Scenic Byway

Length of Route: 125 miles
Highlight: Views of Seabirds and Seals, Forests, Blueberry Fields, Festivals, and Community Celebrations

The Bold Coast Drive encompasses 125 miles. It provides you with a unique opportunity to experience all that the areas of Downeast Maine and Coastal Washington County have to offer, whether you are seeking recreational opportunities, beautiful views, or a lesson in culture and history.

Rocky coastlines make this drive an excellent place to see seabirds and seals as well as fishing boats at work.

In the summer, the coastal forests produce panoramic blueberry barrens, and in the fall, the foliage is just right for sight-seeing. The summer brings many festivals and community celebrations to this area with opportunities for arts and crafts, music and dance, as well as taking part in native cultural traditions.

#9 — Fish River (Route 11)

Length of Route: 37 miles
Highlight: Views of Wildlife, Eagle Lake, and Mount Katahdin

Route 11, also known as the Fish River Scenic Byway, is located in the Aroostook region. It is 37 miles in length and takes about one hour to complete.

This drive takes you through rolling lands between Portage and Fort Kent, offering unforgettable views of wildflower meadows, Eagle Lake, and Mount Katahdin.

Most of the drive is forested, and you may catch a glimpse of a moose, eagles, landlocked salmon, brook trout, or beaver. Popular activities include camping, fishing, hiking, and boating. Beaches, golf courses, and historical landmarks can also be found on this drive.

#10 — Grafton Notch Scenic Byway

Length of Route: 21 miles
Highlight: Maine’s Lakes and Mountains Region, Views of Bear River, Ponds, and Wildlife

Grafton Notch is a 21-mile drive through Maine’s Lakes and Mountains region and takes about three hours to complete. It offers pond and river views as well as access to viewing wildlife.

For a side trip, try the Sunday River covered bridge or the Appalachian Trail. Many travelers stop at Grafton Notch State Park for a picnic and a stroll along the river’s edge.

This drive, which winds along the Bear River for much of the distance, gives some travelers a feel for how life may have been both beautiful and challenging for the early settlers of the region.

Preparing for Your Scenic Drive

If you are planning a scenic drive in Maine, take some time to prepare before heading out. Planning ahead will make your trip much more enjoyable.

Here’s what you need to do beforehand:

• Create a road trip checklist — Make a list of all of the things you need to do or take care of before leaving. It will put your mind at ease to have it all written down and give you a sense of accomplishment to cross off the items as you complete them.
• Vehicle inspection — Now more than ever is when you should have your car inspected. Take care of any routine or maintenance work that needs to be done such as changing your oil or getting new wiper blades. You should also have any necessary work performed that your mechanic recommends.
• Essentials to have in your car — Pack your vehicle with plenty of essentials before your departure. Essentials should include extra water, snacks, blankets, pillows, music and other forms of entertainment, and a flashlight.
• Emergency kit — Don’t forget to pack an emergency kit in your vehicle as well. This kit should include road flares, jumper cables, a charged cell phone with extra batteries, and blankets. If it is winter, you may also want to include a shovel, a change of warm clothes, and even kitty litter to help gain traction if you get stuck.

Lastly, before taking your scenic drive, make sure you have the right auto insurance coverage for your vehicle and financial situation. Now may be a good time to review your policy and make any necessary changes.

It is a good idea to compare at least two or three different quotes in order to find the best price on auto insurance coverage.

Start comparison shopping for better auto insurance rates in Maine by entering your ZIP code below!