It's always nice to take some time off and enjoy the world around you. We all need a vacation, but it's not always possible to hop on a plane to get away. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of some great places in Maine that will give you that needed dose of relaxation. Most of these can be made into a weekend trip, or cut to just a lovely day out. Don't have any spare time at all? Then simply enjoy the photos. That's got to be good for something!
1. Reserve a spot in advance to visit the beautiful (but private) Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden in Seal Harbor.
The garden is part of the Land and Garden Preserve of Mount Desert Island, which also includes the Thuya Garden & Lodge, and the Asticou Terraces & Landing.
Where are your favorite places to relax in Maine? Head to Facebook and let us know!
When it comes to fall foliage, Maine’s Acadia National Park often steals the spotlight — and for good reason. Its rugged coastlines and vibrant leaves create postcard-perfect scenes every autumn. But venture beyond Acadia, and you’ll discover that Maine is brimming with lesser-known spots that are equally captivating during the fall. Here are five hidden gems in Maine that offer stunning leaf-peeping opportunities away from the crowds.
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Grafton Notch State Park is a public recreation area in Grafton Township, Oxford County, Maine
1. Grafton Notch State Park
Nestled in the rugged Mahoosuc Mountain Range, Grafton Notch State Park offers an extraordinary fall experience that’s a far cry from the bustling trails of Acadia. This park’s dramatic landscape — complete with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dense forests — comes alive in the autumn as vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold sweep through the treetops.
One of the best ways to experience Grafton Notch in the fall is by hiking the Eyebrow Loop Trail, a moderately challenging 2.4-mile route that rewards hikers with sweeping panoramic views of the valley below, all framed by the brilliant colors of fall. The park is also a wildlife haven, with frequent sightings of moose, deer, and other woodland creatures. For a longer adventure, you can trek parts of the Appalachian Trail, which weaves through the park.
Mount Kineo, with 700-foot (210 m) cliffs rising straight up from the water of Moosehead Lake. “n It is a peculiar geological formation of flint as well as the country’s largest mass of this rock.
2. Moosehead Lake
As the largest lake in Maine, Moosehead Lake is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, especially in the fall. Surrounded by the dense forests of the North Woods, the lake reflects a kaleidoscope of autumn colors on its glassy surface. A scenic drive along the Moosehead Lake Scenic Byway provides numerous opportunities to stop and soak in the views.
There are also plenty of ways to experience the lake from different perspectives—whether by boat, kayak, or, for the truly adventurous, a seaplane tour that offers a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding landscape. The small, charming town of Greenville at the southern tip of the lake is a great place to start or end your day, with cozy cafés and restaurants perfect for refueling after a day of leaf-peeping.
For those who want to venture off the road and into the wilderness, hiking trails such as the Moose Mountain Loop provide immersive experiences in the heart of nature. The trail meanders through dense hardwood forests that are radiant in the fall, with lookouts over Moosehead Lake and the surrounding mountains that make the effort well worth it.
Scenic view of Camden from Camden Hill State Park in Autumn, Maine, USA
3. Camden Hills State Park
While Camden Hills State Park is known to locals and avid hikers, it remains somewhat under the radar for many visitors. Tucked along Maine’s picturesque mid-coast, this park combines the best of both worlds: stunning ocean views and vibrant fall foliage. One of the park’s highlights is the hike up Mount Battie, a moderately easy 1.1-mile trail that culminates in panoramic views of Camden Harbor, the rolling hills, and the vibrant forests beyond.
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The contrast of fiery fall colors against the backdrop of the deep blue Atlantic Ocean is something you won’t soon forget. After your hike, spend some time exploring the quaint town of Camden, known for its charming shops, waterfront restaurants, and iconic New England architecture.
For those looking to extend their adventure, the park offers a wide network of trails, including the longer and more challenging Megunticook Trail, which takes you deeper into the park’s forests for even more fall foliage immersion. Whether you’re hiking to the summit or simply enjoying a picnic at one of the park’s many scenic overlooks, Camden Hills is a must-visit for autumn lovers.
Rangeley is a town in Franklin County, Maine, United States. Rangeley is the center of the Rangeley Lakes Region, a resort area.
4. Rangeley Lakes Region
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path fall destination, the Rangeley Lakes Region is the perfect place to escape the crowds. This remote area, nestled in Maine’s Lakes and Mountains region, is known for its stunning views, crystal-clear lakes, and vibrant foliage. One of the most popular spots to take in the autumn scenery is the Height of Land overlook on Route 17, where you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of Rangeley Lake and the surrounding mountains, all glowing with fall colors. It’s one of the most photographed places in the state, and with good reason — the views are simply unforgettable.
In addition to scenic drives, the Rangeley Lakes Region offers plenty of hiking opportunities. The Bald Mountain Trail is a favorite among visitors, offering a moderately challenging hike to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the lakes and mountains below. Whether you’re kayaking on one of the region’s many lakes or hiking through its forests, Rangeley is the perfect destination for a peaceful fall getaway.
Mt. Blue State Park is Maine’s largest state park, encompassing approximately 8,000 acres in two sections separated by Webb Lake.
5. Mount Blue State Park
If you’re looking for a lesser-known fall destination that combines hiking, leaf-peeping, and family-friendly activities, Mount Blue State Park is the perfect choice. Located in the Western Maine Mountains, this park is the largest in the state and offers a wide variety of outdoor adventures. The park’s centerpiece, Mount Blue, is a moderately challenging hike with an elevation of 3,187 feet. The trail to the summit offers incredible views of the surrounding forests, which explode in vibrant hues during the fall months.
For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, the park also offers scenic picnic spots, fishing opportunities, and easy walking trails that are perfect for families. One of the highlights of the park is Webb Lake, where you can enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the water while taking in the fall colors reflected on the lake’s surface. With its variety of activities and stunning scenery, Mount Blue State Park is a hidden gem for fall foliage enthusiasts.
Maine, in the fall, offers more than Acadia. These hidden gems also have captivating autumn experiences with fewer crowds and more chances to connect with nature. From the rugged beauty of Grafton Notch to the serene waters of Moosehead Lake, Maine’s fall foliage is a treasure waiting to be discovered in every corner of the state. Whether you’re looking for a quiet hike, a scenic drive, or a lakeside escape, these hidden gems will help you see Maine’s autumn in a whole new light.
It’s always a little bittersweet when summer comes to an end, but if you are like me, I can’t wait for autumn to arrive. The pumpkin spice, chunky sweaters, and cooler weather always bring a smile to my face. However, nothing excites me more than fall foliage. Here in Maine, the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows are mesmerizing but to truly surround yourself with these colors, it’s all about the timing. So, when do leaves change color in Maine? Our friends at SmokyMountains.com have created an interactive map for 2024 and it gives us a good idea.
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In Maine, we are blessed because we don’t have to wait long to enjoy vibrant fall foliage. In fact, by mid-September, you may already see signs of the leaves changing colors.
Northern parts of the state, particularly in the Lakes and Mountains region, will start to see leaves changing colors much earlier than other areas. By the end of September, the fall foliage in these areas of the Pine Tree State will be near its peak.
By the first week of October, it is time to get outdoors and start enjoying the breathtaking fall foliage -- for 2024, early October is peak fall foliage time in Maine! You may want to take a road trip along I-95 to capture fall views or head to Grafton Notch State Park, located on the other side of the state, for the perfect fall day trip.
During the early days of October, most of the state will have reached peak fall foliage and you will not want to stay indoors. Go on a scenic drive to capture the views during this time of year…
This is a 1.4-mile loop trail with less than 500 feet in elevation gain and views that will make your jaw drop. By the middle of October, the vibrant colors around the state will be fading and signs of winter will start to appear.
What are some of your favorite places to view fall foliage in Maine? Please let us know in the comments and don’t forget to share your favorite fall foliage photos as well. We’d love to hear from you!
