Best Scenic Drives
From winding coastal highways to mountain passes, Maine's scenic byways offer unforgettable views at every turn.
Acadia Park Loop Road
A 27-mile loop offering breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, and forests. Highlights include Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Cadillac Mountain.
View Acadia Park Loop Road GuideRangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway
Routes 17 and 4 wind through the mountains and lakes. The 'Height of Land' overlook provides one of the most stunning panoramas in New England.
View Town InfoOld Canada Road (Route 201)
Follows the Kennebec River north to the Canadian border. It's a historic trade route offering river views and deep forest wilderness.
Schoodic National Scenic Byway
Explore the 'Quiet Side' of Acadia on the mainland. This route offers craggy coastlines and views of Mount Desert Island across the bay.
View Town InfoRoute 1 (Midcoast)
The classic Maine road trip. While busy in summer, the stretch from Bath to Belfast passes through charming villages and offers glimpses of the harbor.
View Town InfoSt. George Peninsula Loop
Leave US-1 in Thomaston to explore Cushing and Friendship, marsh views, working wharves, and the Olson House on Maple Juice Cove.
View Town InfoSometimes the best way to see Maine is through a windshield. The state’s scenic byways wind through mountain passes, hug the rocky coastline, and cut through the vast north woods, offering front-row seats to the changing landscapes.
The Classics
Route 1 is the legendary artery, but the real magic often happens on the peninsulas that branch off it. The Schoodic National Scenic Byway offers a quieter side of Acadia. The Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway provides high-altitude drama with expansive lake views.
Seasonal Beauty
These drives change character with the seasons. In October, the Grafton Notch drive is a tunnel of fire-red foliage. In summer, the Park Loop Road is a breezy coastal escape. Just remember to take your time. In Maine, the “scenic route” is usually the only route worth taking.
Explore More of Maine
Looking for more inspiration? Browse our full directory of towns or explore by region.