The Maine Island Trail includes nearly 200 islands. As a water trail, it runs along the entire Maine coast, passing unspoiled islands and coastal sites. More than 40 of these islands belong to the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands. On land, Maine's state parks offer thousands of miles of hiking and multi-use trails, as well as beaches. This means you can choose from a wide range of discoveries for your trip: coastal towns and islands, trails through state parks, and historic sites.
Coast, Trails and Acadia
Acadia National Park covers nearly 50,000 acres along Maine's Atlantic coast. Its 27-mile Park Loop Road offers views and access to park destinations. The historic carriage roads offer a different perspective on the park: the network stretches for 45 miles and was built from 1913 to 1940. It is car-free and shared by pedestrians, cyclists and horse-drawn carriages. The network also passes beneath and over 17 historic carriage road bridges.
The two systems differ in more than just length. Park Loop Road combines scenic views with access to park destinations; the carriage roads are defined by their historic construction, car-free use and bridges. If you are interested in the history of trails, the carriage roads offer a different focus from the park route.
Nature and Trails at Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
At Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, wildlife watching goes hand in hand with a variety of trails and routes. The monument provides breeding habitat for 171 bird species; winter trails are located in its northern section. Hikers can start the International Appalachian Trail at North Gate or the Barnard Mountain Trailhead.
The 17-mile Katahdin Loop Road is another way to explore the area by bicycle. The road is unpaved and shared with motorized vehicles. Two possible starting points are named for hikes; for a bike ride on the Loop Road, the unpaved surface and shared traffic are part of the route description. The winter trails are specifically located in the northern section of the monument.
Moose and Other Discoveries
State biologists estimate Maine's moose population at approximately 40,000 to 60,000; estimates may change. Maine also has the highest concentration of moose in the contiguous United States. Those interested in the animals' behavior and habitat can join guided moose-watching tours, also called moose safaris, offered by specialized operators. Availability is seasonal and depends on the operator.
You can also discover culture at specific sites. The grounds of the Penobscot Marine Museum in Searsport include 13 historic buildings. The Maine Maritime Museum in Bath offers lighthouse and nature cruises; schedules may vary seasonally. Check the schedule before your visit.
The Dead, Kennebec and Penobscot rivers are the main options for commercial river rafting. Beginners in Maine can take a commercially offered whitewater trip with a professional guide. Wild blueberry harvesting is another activity with statewide significance: the berries are harvested in lowbush blueberry barrens across the state.
If you are looking for a hotel in Maine, you can start by considering which discoveries you want to shape your trip: coastal islands, hiking trails and historic routes, wildlife watching, or culture and river activities. This lets you begin planning with the interests that bring you to Maine.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Kennebec, York, Cumberland, Lincoln, Androscoggin, Hancock, Penobscot, Somerset, Knox, Oxford, Aroostook, Sagadahoc County, Waldo County, Franklin County, Piscataquis County, Washington County.
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