In some of the most remote towns in Maine, it's not uncommon to feel completely isolated...in a good way. The Pine Tree State offers the kind of peace and quiet that those living in big cities can only dream about. And, because a whopping 90% of Maine is actually covered in forest, it's easy to feel miles away from anything else. As communities expand and sprawl, there aren't many places that are truly miles away from civilization, but visit any one of these remote ME towns on this list and you just might FEEL that way!
1. Abbot, Piscataquis County
Abbot feels just as rural as the smallest town you might find tucked away in "The County." While the population is small and the beauty is big, this one might feel like the most remote place in Maine on this list. A good thing? You be the judge! Check out the town's Facebook page to learn more about visiting.
2. Patten, Penobscot County
Patten, a community of fewer than 1,000 residents, is nestled in central Maine. The development of the lumber industry here once made it the cultural hub of the area encompassing the towns west of Houlton and north of Lincoln. Now it's one of the least populated towns in ME. Hungry? Check out Craig's Clam Shop if you ever visit Patten.
3. Port Clyde, Knox County
Port Clyde is actually a part of St. George, which has an overall population of about 2,500. And while it's not hidden away in a forest in "The County," it sure does feel like you're in remote ME. To really amplify that feeling, we recommend you stare out at the water while visiting Marshall Point Lighthouse. If you are looking for a water excursion, check out this ferry boat ride that leaves from Port Clyde.
4. Mt. Chase, Penobscot County
Named for the 2,440-foot peak nearby, Mount Chase's tiny population makes it the smallest on this list and one of the least populated towns in ME. If you were looking for a party, 1880 would have been a good time to live in Mount Chase. The town population peaked in that year with 310 people calling it home. To really feel solitude and peace, check out the Upper and Lower Shin Ponds nearby. Mount Chase's Shin Pond Village is a great place to camp in ME.
5. Vinalhaven, Knox County
When you can get to the islands in Casco Bay in under thirty minutes, the need for a two-hour boat ride to this island off of Rockland can make it feel like it's the most remote town in Maine. Visit in the winter to truly feel like you've found solitude. Learn more about this incredible island in ME.
6. St. Francis, Aroostook County
St. Francis has a population of less than 500. It sits on the Canadian border and while you might find other towns within driving distance and this isn't technically remote ME, if you don't speak French, you might feel completely isolated. Check out the website for the town of St. Francis to help plan your visit.
7. Eastport, Washington County
Not only is Eastport unique for being the easternmost city in the US (not to be confused with Lubec, which is the easternmost municipality), but it is also a city comprised solely of islands. Come in July for the annual July 4th Codfish Relay (which is actually part of a larger celebration in both the US and Canada) and stay for the Salmon Festival in September. If you leave and crave more, come back for the New Year's Eve sardine drop at midnight. Not interested in seafood? While you're here, grab a bite to eat at this historic diner in ME.
8. St. Agatha, Aroostook County
It's no surprise that so many of the towns on this list are in "The County." St. Agatha might be a fairly popular summer destination, but in the winter, you're sure to be on your own. Rural St. Agatha is just a few miles from the Canadian border and has less than 800 residents, making it one of the most remote places in Maine. Check out the website for the Town of Agatha to help plan your visit.
9. Robbinston, Washington County
Located just about as far east as possible, the remote ME town of Robbinston is separated from Canada by a three-mile river. Early industry focused on ship building, but moved to fishing and farming potatoes when steam-powered ships arrived on the scene. Notably, Robbinston was a last stop for the Underground Railroad where escaping slaves would cross over into Canada to find freedom. Check out what the Town of Robbinston has to offer visitors.
10. Masardis, Aroostook County
Masardis, with a population of just 250 people, is one of those blink-and-you-might-miss-it towns located in "The County." And you'll feel worlds away from anyone else as you sit and enjoy a quiet sunrise in one of the least populated towns in ME. The Chamber of Commerce can tell you more about the town of Masardis.
11. Castine, Hancock County
Most Mainers know Castine as the home of the Maine Maritime Academy. Those who know the town admit that while it might not be the end of the world, you certainly can see it from here! Take a hike at Witherle Woods during your visit.
Have you visited any of these remote towns in Maine? Tell us about it in the comments!
According to biologists, it's Baxter State Park that is the very most remote place in Maine.
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