Here in Maine, it’s easy to enjoy the nature that surrounds us. It’s all around us, after all. From the sea to the forests, there’s tons of beauty just about everywhere. And so much of it is unique that we can’t help but think there’s no better place to explore than right here. If you’re looking for incredible natural wonders in Maine, check out our list of favorites. Beautiful in any season and with no cost associated, these are the best natural areas in Maine that you just can’t pass up.

1. Giant's Stairs, Bailey Island

This beautiful coastal area can be found by crossing the Cribstone Bridge over to Bailey Island. Once there you'll find the path leading along the water. Here you'll see what ages of erosion have done to the land. Rocks that look like stairs have been formed and they're so large they could only be fit for a giant! Here's an article to learn more about how to reach this beautiful natural wonder in Maine.

Take a look at this incredible video of Giant's Stairs shot by YouTuber Mainely Hikes.

2. Height of Land, near Rangeley

The Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway follows Routes 17 and 4 in western Maine leading directly to an overlook to see this beautiful part of the state. The term "height of land" refers to a place where two watersheds come together and while that's cool, the view is what's truly captivating. From here you'll be able to see Mooselookmeguntic Lake and even the White Mountains on a clear day. Be sure to check out this previous article to learn more about how to find this gorgeous natural area in Maine!

3. Coos Canyon, Oxford County

One of the reasons we love this beauty so much is that you can see it just by parking and taking a step out of your car. You'll find it just off of Route 17 scenic highway, The waterfall is beautiful year-round. In the winter it's often covered in ice and snow, for a truly magical appearance. In the summer it's a great place to cool down by jumping in the water. There's a park connected which is the perfect place to enjoy a picnic lunch. Learn more about this breathtaking waterfall in Maine!

4. The Dramatic Tidal Changes

This one is a bit more general than the others on this list, but we think the tidal changes here in Maine are worth mentioning. They're the most dramatic of anywhere else in America and can change as much as 20 feet between low and high tides! To see that, head to Calais where that exact number has been reported. But just about anywhere on the coast you're bound to see a big change.

5. Reversing Falls, Mahar's Point

Caused by water rushing in and out of Dennys and Whiting Bay, the reversing falls are truly unique. If you visit, you'll notice the narrow area sitting between Mahar Point and Falls Island. When the high tide comes in, the water swirls around creating whirlpools. When it goes out over a rocky ledge just beneath the surface the water appears to move in the opposite direction as the tide creating what can only be called a reversing waterfall. Check out this mind-blowing natural wonder in Maine!

6. Gulf Hagas, near Brownville Junction

Known as the Grand Canyon of the East, this impressive network of falls is truly a sight to behold. Created by the Western Branch of the Pleasant River you'll find impressively large granite walls on either side of the river. You can learn more about the falls and how to find them (spoiler alert: it's a bit of a hike!) by checking out this previous article about these natural phenomena in Maine.

7. Old Sow Whirlpool, Eastport

This is one of the most unique natural wonders in all of Maine! To see it head to Eastport where tidal currents come together between that town and Deer Island to create one of the largest and most dangerous whirlpools anywhere in the world!

Here’s a cool video of Old Sow filmed by YouTuber Bob Duchesne that will blow your mind.

Have you been to any of these natural wonders in Maine? If so, share any tips you have for the visit. And if we've left anyone off this list that deserves to be there add that to the comments, too!

For more access to the natural beauty of the state, head for one of our incredible trails. Here are 10 incredible hikes in Maine under 5 miles that everyone should take!