Driving in Maine: A Survival Guide

Maine is a massive state—bigger than all the other New England states combined. Public transit is limited outside of Portland, so for most visitors, a car is essential. But driving here comes with its own set of rules, hazards, and quirks.

The Two Maines

There are effectively two road networks in Maine:

1. The Interstate (I-95): The high-speed artery. It runs from the NH border north to Houlton. South of Augusta, it’s a toll road (The Maine Turnpike). It’s the fastest way to get north-south, but you won’t see the ocean.
2. Route 1: The legendary coastal highway. It runs through every town center. It is scenic, slow, and prone to massive traffic jams in summer (especially in Wiscasset).

The Moose Hazard

This is not a joke. Hitting a moose is catastrophic. A bull moose can weigh 1,500 pounds and stand 7 feet tall.

• The Physics: Because their legs are so long, the bumper hits the legs and the massive body crashes through the windshield.
• Danger Zones: Anywhere north of Portland, but especially “Moose Alley” (Route 201 north of Skowhegan) and the Golden Road.
• When: Dawn and dusk are peak activity times. May/June and September/October are peak movement months.
• What to Do: Scan the shoulders constantly. If you see a moose, brake hard but try not to swerve violently, as you may hit a tree or another car.

Logging Roads & The North Woods

In the northern half of the state, the “roads” are often privately owned gravel logging tracks.

• Right of Way: Logging trucks ALWAYS have the right of way. They are heavy, moving fast, and cannot stop. Pull over completely if you see one coming.
• Gate Fees: You will often have to pass through a checkpoint (North Maine Woods) and pay a cash fee.
• Conditions: Gravel roads eat tires. Bring a full-sized spare (not a donut) and a jack.
• GPS: Do not rely on Google Maps. It may try to route you down a snowmobile trail. Buy a Maine Gazetteer (paper map).

Winter Driving

“All-season” tires are often not enough for a real Maine winter.

• Snow Ban: Many towns have overnight parking bans during storms.
• Black Ice: Coastal roads often look wet but are actually frozen.
• Kit: Keep a shovel, blanket, and scraper in the trunk.

The Rotary (Roundabout)

Maine loves rotaries. They are everywhere.

1. Yield to Traffic IN the Circle: They have the right of way.
2. Don’t Stop: Once you enter, keep moving.
3. Blinkers: Use your right blinker to signal when you are exiting.

Gas & EV Charging

• Gas: In remote areas (Route 11, the Golden Road), gas stations can be 50+ miles apart. Never let your tank drop below half in the North Woods.
• EVs: The charging network is good along I-95 and Route 1 (thanks to Revision Energy and others), but gets very sparse inland and north of Bangor. Plan carefully.

Local Etiquette

• The Wave: On back roads, it is customary to lift a finger or wave to passing drivers.
• Letting People In: Maine drivers are generally polite. If someone is trying to turn onto the main road in heavy traffic, let them in.
• Headlights: Keep them on, even in the day. It helps you be seen on shady, tree-lined roads.

Drive safe, take your time, and remember: you can’t get there from here (without a car).