Maine Vacations Top 10 Lists
Welcome to Maine!
In a state with scenic wonders that take your breath away at almost every turn, it’s sometimes hard to decide where to begin your Maine adventure. No matter if your desire is to climb the highest mountains, paddle the length of the longest rivers or take in the misty aired splendor of the most scenic back-country waterfalls, Maine Vacations helps you find the best of the best.
10 Highest Mountains
In some states the line is “go climb a rock.” In Maine, it’s “go climb a mountain.” The state has ten peaks that top the 4,000-foot mark beginning with 5,267-foot Mount Katahdin in the wilds of Baxter State Park. The name means “Greatest Mountain” and the challenging hike to the top rewards you with a panoramic wilderness view. Sugarloaf Mountain, at 4,240 feet is best known for its world class ski resort. Sugarloaf, Old Speck and Crocker Mountains are just a few that have trails connecting to the famed Appalachian Trail. Most of Maine’s notable peaks are in the Lakes & Mountains Region, in the wildlife rich interior. Read More >
10 Largest Lakes
To complement all those eye-popping mountains are over 3,400 lakes and countless ponds. Moosehead Lake in the Maine Highlands Region is Maine’s largest inland body of water. Boaters, fishermen, kayakers and canoeists come to enjoy this still lightly populated area. Sebago Lake ranks number two in size but holds the title for the deepest lake in Maine. Part of Sebago Lake State Park, this Cumberland County lake is within easy reach of Portland and Maine’s dynamic coastline. Other treasures that await your visit include Chesuncook, Flagstaff, and Mooselookmeguntic Lakes. Find the Maine lake that suits your personality and do a bit of fishing, camping or paddle to your heart’s content. Finding a moose munching along the shoreline is a delightful bonus. Read More >
10 Longest Rivers
Native Americans used Maine’s rivers for transportation long before the Europeans arrived on the scene. Paddling a canoe on a tranquil waterway was much easier than trekking over the state’s rugged terrain. Saint John River, in Aroostook County is the longest of Maine’s natural waterways, stretching 418 miles across the state to its end at the Bay of Fundy. While most rivers have thriving salmon, trout and/or bass populations, a few also offer whitewater thrill rides. The West Branch of the Penobscot in the Maine Highlands is the fifth longest river, and with Class 3 to 5 rapids is also one of the most challenging for paddlers. Whether you are seeking back-water solitude or a heart-stopping paddling adventure, Maine’s scenic rivers have much to offer. Read More >
10 Best Natural Harbors
Mother Nature waved her artistic wand and Maine’s magnificent 3,500 miles of coastline appeared. Over time waves and storms helped create natural harbors, some large enough for cargo ships, others hidden coves perfect for a quiet getaway. Portland Harbor, the busiest and largest port in the state, began as a natural, protected deep-water basin, perfect for sheltering ships from storms. Other natural harbors along the coast, including Boothbay Harbor, Bar Harbor and Rockport Harbor were discovered by mariners seeking a safe anchorage. Like Portland Harbor, they became important ports of call for working and pleasure craft. But some of Maine’s best natural harbors are off the beaten path and remain much as nature created them. One example is Great Wass Island, near Mount Desert Island. The unpopulated island has a tiny natural harbor called the Mud Hole accessible only at high tide. It’s a bit of a navigation challenge but the reward is solitude and an unrivaled star filled night sky. Read More >
10 Most Scenic Waterfalls
There is something about the cascade of water down a rocky face that charms and captivates us mere mortals. Perhaps it is the timelessness of it all or simply the misty droplets that brush our cheeks as we watch the frothy downpour. Maine is home to impressive mountains, countless lakes and far-reaching rivers, the perfect recipe for spectacular waterfalls. Angel Falls in Franklin County is considered one of the loveliest in the state. The name comes from its angel-like appearance at the water tumbles the 90 feet down the rocky ledge. Some, like Screw Auger Falls and Smalls Falls, offer freshwater swimming holes and picnic areas, perfect for a family outing. Others, like Katahdin Stream Falls, are surrounded by thick forests and are particularly enchanting when the leaves change into their autumn reds and golds. Maine’s scenic waterfalls are magic personified and welcome visitors from around the world. Read More >
More Top 10 Lists in the Making
This is only the beginning. Maine Vacations is in the process of adding more helpful “Top 10” lists. Is there something special that you would like to know more about?Topic suggestions for our “Top 10” section are welcome. Just use our online contact form. Happy traveling!