Have you ever just gotten into the car and driven for hours in one direction just to clear your head? If you have, then there's a good chance you've been on one of these roads in Maine. They not only offer the most beautiful views in Maine from the comfort (and warmth!) of your own car, but many take you through some of our most historic towns. So, if you're not one for hikes, but still long for the beauty of Vacationland take a look through this list of roads to travel on. Remember, it's not always the destination, but the journey that matters most.
1. The Golden Road, Millinocket
Most of the photos of this wonderful road show Maine's fall foliage, but we want to remind everyone that it's pretty wonderful any time of year. Providing you can get through it in the winter! Make sure to see it in the fall, but then take the drive when you can enjoy seeing Katahdin covered in snow. The road runs for 96 miles connecting Millinocket to St. Zacharie in Quebec.
2. Route 113, Pequawket Trail Maine Scenic Byway
Those who love Maine know that these views are all beautiful, but they're all unique. In photos they might look similar, but there's nothing like the feeling of driving the road you know best. The drive down Route 113, runs along the Saco River and connects Standish and Gilead, is about 60-miles and will take about two hours. Consider stopping along the way to check out the sustainable working farms, artisans and pure nature.
3. Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway, Routes 17, 16, and 4
Views like this one can be seen on the 52-mile route that will take you along State Routes 17, 16, and 4. You'll go around Rangeley Lake, and even cross the Appalachian Trail. While the views of the forest are wonderful, the most memorable part is, perhaps, the view of Mooselookmeguntic Lake at the Height of Land.
4. Baxter Park Road, Millinocket
If you're not trying to make your way all the way up to Canada, but still want some views of Katahdin just head to Baxter State Park. Take some time to drive around and appreciate that this incredible place exists right here in Maine.
5. The Loop Road, Acadia National Park
This road allows visitors to see all of the many areas of Acadia National Park, but it's also a wonderful way to enjoy the views in the park without dealing with lines and tourists. Also known as "The All American Road Trip," this 40-mile trip will take about three hours. You'll begin about 10 miles North of Acadia National Park by heading East on Route 3 towards Bar Harbor.
Once you reach Northeast Creek, continue to head East until you reach the Hulls Cove Visitor Center where the All-American Road becomes the Loop Road.
6. The Carriage Roads, Acadia National Park
It's not necessary to set off on an epic road trip to experience the views of Maine from your car. While you can't actually drive ON the Carriage Roads in Acadia, they run above much of the drive through the park. Created by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. in 1917, they're a fun piece of history to see from the car.
7. The Katahdin Woods and Waters Scenic Byway
While the national monument of the same name has certainly come with its own controversy, we've all got to agree that this route in Maine is something special. Most of the drive is along Route 11 and it begins at the southern entrance of Baxter State Park in Millinocket. We recommend a stop at Shin Falls while you're traveling and always be careful of moose. There are lots of potential spots to came upon one!
8. Route 27, August to Canada
When you make the same car trip multiple times a month, it can be easy to forget the beauty and focus only on the destination. But, every so often the weather is just right, making the view a little extra special. This view, on Route 27, was just that sort of day!
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9. Route 9, Haynesville
Don't talk yourself out of a drive down one of Maine's most haunted roads! Embrace it and you'll be provided with some of the most uninterrupted beauty in Vacationland! Not sure what we're talking about? Click here to read the story of this road's past.
10. Local Maine Roads, Everywhere!
Limington is a good example of a lovely Maine town with some of the best small-town views. Take some time to drive around and enjoy what's just off the beaten path!
If the thought of seeing so much beauty has you thinking about REALLY getting into nature, check out these 12 awesome hiking trails. They're a few of Maine's most loved outdoor adventures!
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