BlogHow to Plan the Perfect Maine Fall Foliage Road Trip

Start Your Journey in Southern Maine

Your Maine fall foliage road trip begins in Southern Maine, where autumn colors blend beautifully with sandy beaches and historic harbors. This region invites you in with its vivid scenery, charm, and flavor.

• Top Stops: Portland (brewery tours, seafood, cobblestone streets), Kennebunkport (quaint harbor vibes), Ogunquit (Marginal Way cliff walk with stunning ocean views)

• Must-See Highlights: Portland Head Light, Old Orchard Beach, and cozy seafood shacks

Pro Tip: Start early to catch morning sunlight reflecting off both foliage and sea.

Bonus stop: Stop by Box of Maine in Brewer on your way! Their curated gift boxes—packed with wild blueberry jam, lobster treats, and Maine-made favorites—make a lovely local souvenir or thoughtful gift.

Explore the MidCoast: Where Colors Meet the Coast

Heading north, MidCoast Maine delivers some of the most scenic fall drives where vibrant foliage meets rugged coastline.

• Charming Towns: Rockland (art museums & lobster), Camden (Penobscot Bay views), Boothbay Harbor (gardens & boutique shops)

• Road Trip Highlights:

  • Drive the Camden Hills Scenic Byway

  • Visit Pemaquid Point Lighthouse at sunset

DownEast Maine: Acadia’s Autumn Magic

No Maine fall foliage road trip is complete without exploring DownEast Maine and Acadia National Park.

• Towns Worth Visiting: Bar Harbor, Lubec (easternmost U.S. point), Ellsworth

• Don’t Miss:

  • Acadia’s Park Loop Road and sunrise at Cadillac Mountain

  • The quieter, wooded trails of the Schoodic Peninsula

For fresh Acadia inspiration beyond common trails—like peaceful sunrise spots or carriage road adventures—see “Unique Acadia Adventures: Don’t Get Lost on a Mountain in Maine.”

Northern Maine: Wilderness and Open Skies

Venture into Northern Maine (The County) for secluded roads, quiet lakes, and rustic landscapes ablaze with fall color.

• Hidden Gems: Fort Kent, Madawaska, Presque Isle

• Great Stops:

  • Visit a local maple sugarhouse: Northern Reach Maple

  • Hike Mount Katahdin in Baxter State Park

  • Picnic beside remote lakes reflecting autumn hues

Maine Highlands: Lakes, Peaks & Scenic Byways

Your journey ends in the Maine Highlands, where mountain trails, lake views, and vibrant fall tones converge.

• Best Stops: Greenville (Moosehead Lake), Millinocket (gateway to Baxter State Park), Waterville (culture + craft beer)

• Must-Do Adventures:

  • Paddle Lily Bay State Park under golden treetops

  • Explore Maine’s historic covered bridges

  • Hike to scenic overlooks with sweeping views

Evenings here mean loon calls, fireplace warmth, and stars glowing over autumn woods.

Tips for the Perfect Maine Fall Foliage Road Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Late September to mid-October (north peaks first)

• Pack Smart: Layers, waterproof boots, and a camera

• Plan Ahead: Track foliage online or via foliage trackers

• Embrace Side Trips: The best views are often just off the main roads