When the air turns crisp and the leaves start showing off their fiery reds, golds, and oranges, it’s time to plan the ultimate Maine fall foliage road trip. The beauty of this adventure is how the season sweeps from north to south, beginning in late September up in Aroostook County and the Maine Highlands, and slowly moving down toward Southern Maine by mid-October. This means you can follow the color wave and catch peak foliage in multiple regions.

Below, we’ll guide you through five distinct regions—Northern, Highlands, DownEast, MidCoast, and Southern—each with its own personality, must-see stops, and “wow” moments that will make your autumn unforgettable.

Northern Maine: Wilderness and Open Skies

Venture into Northern Maine (The County) for secluded roads, quiet lakes, and rustic landscapes ablaze with fall color. This is where foliage peaks first, often late September into early October.

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

Evenings up here are peaceful—just you, the leaves, and a sky full of stars.

Maine Highlands: Lakes, Peaks & Scenic Byways

Next, the colors sweep into the Maine Highlands—an outdoor lover’s dream with moose, lakes, and trails.

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

Back then, families piled into vans with thermoses of cider for drives along these winding backroads. Today, you can still feel that nostalgia in the crisp air.

DownEast Maine: Acadia’s Autumn Magic

No Maine fall foliage road trip is complete without exploring DownEast Maine and Acadia National Park. By early October, Acadia shines with every shade of fall.

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 “Acadia Adventures to Fall in Love with .”

MidCoast Maine: Where Colors Meet the Coast

By mid-October, the MidCoast region is in full blaze. Here, vibrant foliage meets rugged shoreline—a picture-perfect pairing.

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

It’s easy to linger in these towns—stop into cozy cafes, browse local shops, or stroll by the harbor as the leaves flutter down.

Southern Maine: Beaches and Harbors with Autumn Flair

Finally, your Maine fall foliage road trip wraps up in Southern Maine, often peaking mid to late October. This region blends sandy beaches, lighthouses, and fiery treetops in one unforgettable package.

Top Stops:

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

Must-See Highlights:

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

Bonus Stop: On your way north or south, swing by Box of Maine in Brewer for treats like wild blueberry jam, lobster goodies, and gift boxes that make the perfect souvenirs.

Tips for the Perfect Maine Fall Foliage Road Trip

Best Time to Visit: Late September to mid-October (north peaks first, south later).
Pack Smart: Layers, waterproof boots, and a camera.
Plan Ahead: Use foliage trackers to time your visit.
Embrace Side Trips: The best views are often just off the main roads.

Final Thought: A Maine fall foliage road trip isn’t just about the colors—it’s about the memories, the cozy meals, the laughs, and the feeling of being wrapped in autumn’s glow. So pack up, hit the road, and let Maine’s fall colors guide you.

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