Maine is full of places that you won't find anywhere else. We've got unique scenic roads, strange thundering caves and even waterfalls that go backwards! But, some attractions stand out more than others. The place we're going to tell you about today is one of the most wonderful in the state. Due to its slightly off-the-beaten-path location, it might not get the attention it deserves. But, that doesn't make it any less special. Many visitors don't make it north of Bangor, but we hope the thought of exploring Quoddy Head State Park encourages everyone to explore a bit more.

Quoddy Head State Park is located on the tip of the USA’s easternmost peninsula.

The 541-acre park includes a historic lighthouse, picnic area and 5 miles of wonderful hiking trails.

Its most distinctive feature, West Quoddy Head Light, is Maine’s easternmost lighthouse. It looks out over Quoddy Channel, a body of water that separates the USA and Canada. It also offers views of the stunning red cliffs of Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick.

West Quoddy Head Light was commissioned by President Thomas Jefferson and was built in 1808. The current tower and house, back to 1858, were staffed by lightkeepers living on site until 1988 when the light was automated.

The lighthouse was originally fueled by sperm whale oil and was electrified in the 1890s. The light can still be seen still shines every 15 seconds as far as 15-18 miles out to sea.

The 15 red and white stripes are not just for looks!

They were added in 1858 when the tower was reconstructed to replace the original stone with brick. The stripes allow for better visibility in the snow and fog of Maine winters. While you can’t visit the light itself, the keeper’s area is open for exploring from May to October.

Those who love wildlife should definitely plan a visit to the park!

The park offers the opportunity for lots of wildlife-watching. In the summer, you might see humpback, minke and finback whales, as well as eider, scoter and old squaw ducks. During the migration periods in the spring and fall, hundreds of shorebirds make their way to the western area of the park near Lubec Flats and Carrying Place Cove. Even a winter visit will lead to bird-spotting opportunities, including bald eagles.

For hikers, there are four interconnected trails that start at the parking area.

These trails will take hikers through forest and wetlands and provide some of the best coastal views in Maine.

The trails that are located near the parking area allow for some wheelchair access

Hikers should check out the Inland Trail (slightly less than a mile,) The Bog Trail (about a mile round-trip,) The Thompson Trail (about a mile and a quarter) and the Coast Trail (four miles round-trip.) For more information on these trails click here.

The park is open from 9:00 a.m. to sunset every day from May 15 to October 15. But, But don’t worry if it’s the winter! Visitors can still enjoy the park by parking outside the gate and walking in during these same hours.

If this article has given you a renewed love of lighthouses, check out the (much more convenient) one we wrote about last week!