When folks think of Maine, some very specific things come to mind: lobster rolls, rocky coasts, lighthouses and, of course, our very special moose! Maine has the highest moose population in the lower 48 states, in fact. Even more impressive is that some numbers indicate that they actually outnumber humans in the Pine Tree State! This unique animal can be found all throughout the state, too, so before you search for "moose-watching day trips near me in Maine," know that wherever you're located in the Pine Tree State, you're sure to be near an epic moose-finding adventure! But there are some things to keep in mind. While we know that Maine's moose are best seen between dusk and dawn from May through July (as well as in the fall), it's not always easy to find them on your own. That's why this special tour is a great option, and really makes for one of the most unique day trips you can take in Maine. Let's have a look...

One of our favorite day trips in Maine is going moose watching - and one of the best places to do it is at Northeast Whitewater in Shirley Mills.

The operator offers Maine Moose Tours, private Maine Moose Safaris, and Maine Wildlife Tours, allowing visitors to see moose on foot, by van or by canoe.

All moose-watching tours are led by registered Maine tour guides, who know exactly where to go.

You'll begin in the Moosehead Lake Region and head to areas where moose tend to be.

The animals eat in the shallow areas of the waterways, making canoe tours perfect for up-close viewing.

Both morning and evening tours are offered through Northeast Whitewater.

Both are wonderful, but evening tours end with a beautiful sunset overlooking Moosehead Lake, which is pretty perfect, if you ask us.

While on this epic Maine adventure, you'll love meeting new people who share your love of the Maine outdoors.

Once you've done an evening tour, you might want to sign up for an early morning trip.

Morning tours come with the added benefit of mist on the lake, the call of loons, and a gorgeous sunrise view to start the day off right.

Both morning and evening tours run three or four hours long.

You can also opt for a private Moose Safari Tour, which are available seasonally.

Prices range depending on which tour you choose, and that information can be found at Northeast Whitewater's website.

But, really, how can you put a price on the experience of seeing Maine's favorite animal up close?

Northeast Whitewater is also a great place to go on a whitewater rafting excursion, too! You can find out more about that offering as well as these moose tours by visiting their website. Check them out on Facebook to see photos of other people's adventures! Northeast Whitewater is located at 155 Greenville Road, Shirley Mills, ME, 04485. and you can call them for a reservation at (207) 695-0151.

So, what do you think? Aren't you glad you didn't take the time to search for "day trips near me in Maine?" Because this really is *the* ultimate day trip in the Pine Tree State. For an entire year of epic adventures in Maine, check out this article.