Maine has no shortage of stunning landscapes. Even still, some truly take our breath away and remind us just how beautiful the Pine Tree State can be. One place that comes to mind is Eastport. Brimming with natural beauty, this unique archipelago in Washington County is stunning year-round. In fact, the waterfront views are so mesmerizing that they seem as though they were borrowed from a Claude Monet painting. Take a look at the following scenes from Eastport, Maine, and see if they don't evoke the famous French Impressionist artist.
For travelers wishing to experience the rugged beauty of coastal Maine, it just doesn't get much better than Eastport.
Many flock to Eastport to experience the fascinating wildlife. Because it's home to the deepest port on the East Coast, this area attracts seals, eagles, and whales.
The famous French impressionist was renowned for his renderings of cliffs and sailboats, and therefore it seems likely that he too would have loved this island.
After you've gotten your fill of sightseeing, you'll be pleased to discover all the fun things to do in Eastport. Grab a bite to eat at Bocephus, famous for its lobster rolls, and then explore Raye's Mustard Mill.
Curious to learn a bit more about life in Eastport, Maine? Watch the brief YouTube video below and meet a few locals:
Have you ever gone down east to experience Eastport? What did you think of this beautiful Maine destination? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we would love to hear from you! If you're looking for the perfect home base for exploring the area, be sure to check out these unique vacation rentals in Eastport, ME.
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.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
