20 Scenic Drives in Maine for Your Next Coastal Escape

Maine’s rugged coastline and picturesque landscapes offer some of the most breathtaking drives in New England. Winding through charming fishing villages, past lighthouses, and along rocky shores, each route tells a story of Maine’s maritime heritage. 

Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor exploring Vacationland for the first time, these scenic drives showcase the best of Maine’s coastal beauty.

Park Loop Road, Acadia National Park

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This 27-mile loop road winds through the heart of Mount Desert Island, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Acadia’s rugged coastline. The route passes by iconic landmarks like Thunder Hole, where waves crash dramatically against the rocky shore.

Numerous pullouts allow visitors to stop and view Sand Beach, Otter Cliff, and Jordan Pond.

Old Canada Road Scenic Byway, Route 201

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This historic trade route stretches 78 miles from Solon to the Canadian border, following the Kennebec River through dense forests. Moose sightings are common along this pristine stretch of highway, especially during dawn and dusk.

The route features several historic sites and offers access to whitewater rafting adventures on the Kennebec River.

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Schoodic National Scenic Byway, Route 1

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This less-traveled section of coastal Route 1 offers an authentic glimpse of Down East Maine without the crowds of nearby Acadia. The 29-mile byway passes through small fishing villages and provides access to Schoodic Point’s dramatic granite shoreline.

Local seafood shacks and artisan galleries dot the route, making for perfect impromptu stops.

Route 11 Scenic Drive, Southern Aroostook

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This memorable route through Maine’s northern forest connects the towns of Sherman and Patten with stunning views of Mount Katahdin. The journey passes through working forests and open farmland that showcase Maine’s diverse landscape.

Local general stores and farm stands provide authentic stops along this less-traveled northern route.

Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway, Routes 17 and 4

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This 52-mile route circles the pristine Rangeley Lakes, offering views of both mountains and water. The Height of Land overlook provides one of Maine’s most spectacular mountain panoramas across Mooselookmeguntic Lake.

The byway passes through several historic logging towns that now serve as gateways to outdoor recreation.

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Bold Coast Scenic Byway, Route 191

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This remote 125-mile route explores Maine’s easternmost shoreline, where fishing villages seem frozen in time. The road winds past wild blueberry barrens and provides access to hiking trails with dramatic cliff views.

Numerous small harbors offer chances to watch lobstermen at work and sample the day’s catch.

Pequawket Trail Scenic Byway, Route 113

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This 60-mile route through western Maine’s White Mountain foothills follows the Saco River’s course. Historic-covered bridges and colonial-era homes dot the landscape along this peaceful country drive.

The byway provides access to multiple swimming holes and kayak launch points.

Moosehead Lake Scenic Byway, Route 15

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This 59-mile route circles Maine’s largest lake, offering constant views of Mount Kineo’s dramatic cliff face. The road passes through working forest lands where logging trucks still rumble past regularly.

Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, particularly for moose during early morning and evening hours.

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Grafton Notch Scenic Byway, Route 26

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This 21-mile route through western Maine’s mountains connects Sunday River Ski Resort to New Hampshire. The byway provides access to numerous waterfalls and hiking trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail.

Several scenic pullouts offer views of the Mahoosuc Range and surrounding peaks.

Fish River Scenic Byway, Route 11

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This 37-mile route in northern Maine’s Aroostook County passes through pristine forestland and along crystal-clear lakes. The road offers excellent opportunities to spot wildlife, including moose, deer, and various bird species.

Several access points allow fishing in the Fish River Chain of Lakes.

St. John Valley Cultural Byway, Route 1

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This 100-mile route explores Maine’s Acadian heritage along the Canadian border, following the St. John River. Traditional Acadian farms and historic sites provide glimpses into this unique cultural landscape.

Local restaurants serve traditional Acadian dishes, adding a culinary dimension to the journey.

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Blackwoods Byway, Route 182

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This 12-mile route between Franklin and Cherryfield winds through a dense spruce-fir forest known locally as ‘the Blackwoods.’ The narrow road follows the original stagecoach route, maintaining its historic character and charm.

Several small ponds along the way offer peaceful spots for picnicking or fishing.

Coastal Route 32, Bristol Peninsula

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This 15-mile peninsula drive connects Waldoboro to New Harbor, passing through classic Maine fishing villages. Historic lighthouses, including Pemaquid Point Light, provide dramatic photo opportunities along the route.

The road offers access to several working harbors where you can watch lobster boats unload their daily catch.

Midcoast Scenic Byway, Route 1

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This iconic stretch of Maine’s coastal Route 1 connects charming harbor towns and historic maritime communities. The route offers stunning views of Penobscot Bay and access to numerous working waterfronts and fishing villages.

Along the way, historic lighthouses and maritime museums tell the story of Maine’s rich seafaring heritage.

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Katahdin Woods and Waters Scenic Byway, Route 11

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This 89-mile route offers views of Maine’s highest peak and access to the newest National Monument. The road passes through working forest lands and provides opportunities for spotting moose and other wildlife.

Several lookout points offer dramatic views of Mount Katahdin and the surrounding wilderness.

Cobscook Bay Scenic Loop, Route 189

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This 24-mile coastal loop circles one of Maine’s most dramatic tidal bays near Eastport. The route passes through several small fishing villages and provides access to multiple state parks.

Dramatic tidal changes create ever-shifting landscapes along the shoreline.

The Giant’s Stairs Loop, Bailey Island

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This 12-mile island-hopping drive connects three Harpswell’s scenic islands via historic bridges. The route passes several small coves where lobster boats bob at their moorings.

Local seafood shacks offer some of the freshest lobster rolls in Maine.

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Kennebunk Beach Loop, Route 9

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This 8-mile coastal loop passes some of southern Maine’s most prestigious summer colonies and beaches. Historic sea captains’ homes line parts of the route, showcasing classic New England architecture.

Several beach access points provide opportunities for collecting sand dollars and sea glass.

Great Pond Mountain Loop, Route 176

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This 15-mile route circles the base of Great Pond Mountain, offering constant views of the peak. The road passes several small ponds and provides access to hiking trails up the mountain.

Wildlife, including deer and wild turkeys, frequently appear along the roadside.

Grand Lake Stream Road

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This 12-mile route follows an old tote road through some of Maine’s premier fishing territory. The drive passes several sporting camps that have operated continuously for over a century.

Native brook trout and landlocked salmon draw anglers from around the world to these pristine waters.

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Discover Maine’s Hidden Roads and Heritage

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Maine’s scenic drives offer more than just beautiful views – they provide windows into the state’s rich maritime heritage, diverse ecosystems, and vibrant local cultures. Whether you’re seeking dramatic ocean vistas, opportunities to spot wildlife, or chances to explore charming coastal villages, these routes deliver unforgettable experiences. 

Grab your camera, pack a picnic, and set out to discover the natural wonders and hidden gems along Maine’s most scenic drives.

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