Leaves, Lakes and Lighthouses

The Back Roads Guide for Fall Foliage

The coastal mountains and hills of Maine’s MidCoast will begin to glow with color in late September as fall foliage arrives. Our hundreds of miles of rocky shores, rolling hills, and lake valleys should reach their stunning peak color by mid-October. It’s one of the best times to visit and stay in the MidCoast. The roads are uncrowded now, inviting you to explore and leisurely ramble for days.

 

 

The Scenic Back Roads

Any drive in the MidCoast begins with Route 1 as it wanders between the inland areas and the coast. From there, you’ll find countless backroads that wind along spectacular ocean peninsulas, follow foothills around lakes, and climb mountain vistas. Getting off the beaten path is easy with our MidCoast Route Planner. Use it to plan routes for visiting lighthouses, state parks, easy walking trails, and new adventures.

 

 

Hiking, Kayaking, and Trail Riding

Early fall is the best time of the year for hiking, paddling, and riding trails. Easy walks and challenging trails offer spectacular views of distant islands and hours of enjoyment. For kayakers, the Mid-Coast is a paddler’s dream for discovering sea life, watching shore birds, and exploring hidden coves. As the inland hills reach peak color, plan a bike ride for miles of quiet escape or breathtaking fat tire biking.

 

 

Vistas from Mountain Tops to the Sea – Hope and Camden

Endless foliage vistas can be seen from mountains in Hope and Camden. Round the Mountain Trail in Hope has wide-surfaced trails for easy hiking and biking wind through conserved forests and brooks. Closer to Camden, take a Fall Foliage Chairlift Ride every Sunday in October at the Camden Snow Bowl – the only ski on the East Coast with ocean views. At Camden Hills State Park, drive or hike to the 800-ft summit of Mount Battie, where red, yellow, and purple foliage runs right down to the ocean harbor.

 

 

Dazzling Foliage and Shining Lighthouses

Few fall scenes rival our iconic lighthouses and the background of brilliant foliage. Use the Route Planner to follow the trail of 24 historic lighthouses for unforgettable photos and Instagram images.  A few of our favorite lighthouses to visit in the fall are Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Bristol, with one of the few towers that can be climbed in the state; Owls Head Lighthouse near Rockland, with panoramic views of Penobscot Bay; and Marshall Point Lighthouse in Bristol.

 

 

Seasonal Dining with Fresh Fall Flavors

Early fall in the MidCoast means indulging in fabulous seasonal menus with fresh seafood, hearty stews, and farm-to-table fare, including corn, apples, and wild blueberries. Maine has gained a national reputation for its lively food scene, which includes big hitters like Primo and The Lost Kitchen. However, new chefs and restaurants have energized the MidCoast’s food landscape from Brunswick to Searsport.

 

 

Fall Lodging Specials from Cottages to Luxury Inns

As the maple, oak, and birch leaves change colors, our inns, hotels, and seaside cottages will begin to offer special rates and packages. What’s your style? Plush and pampered, back-to-nature, or somewhere in between? There are as many ways to stay as there are reasons to come! Whether it’s an outdoor adventure, a family getaway, a quiet escape, or a little bit of everything, you’ll find the perfect lodging to suit any style.

 

We Can’t Wait to Welcome You!

Don’t miss out on the fall foliage in MidCoast Maine this year. Plan a timeless vacation including a stay at one of our historic inns. And take in the stunning scenery while you explore eight natural wonders of the MidCoast. Start planning your autumn escape today!