Frenchville, Maine

Acadian village on the St. John River

Overview

Frenchville stretches along the St. John River between Fort Kent and Madawaska. Trains and farm fields frame the valley, while bilingual signs and businesses reflect deep Acadian roots.

Key Facts

Population 1,052

Region Aroostook

County Aroostook

Founded 1869

Nearest City Madawaska (10 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Frenchville Is Known For

Frenchville Local Highlights

Frenchville Railroad Depot & Water Tank

A 1910-era rail depot and standpipe listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

St. John River scenery

Open views to New Brunswick farmland and passing trains.

Acadian festivals

Valley-wide celebrations share music, food, and culture with neighboring towns.

Things to Do

Bike the Heritage Trail

Use the nearby multi-use trail that follows the river and old railbed.

Birdwatch along the river

Look for eagles, waterfowl, and migrating songbirds over the valley.

Visit Madawaska and Fort Kent

Explore shops, bakeries, and cultural stops just minutes away.

Living in Frenchville

Frenchville is rural and bilingual, with services shared across the Valley. Residents commute to Madawaska, Fort Kent, and Saint-Basile, NB.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Mild, 60-75 F with valley breezes

winter

Cold and snowy, -5 to 20 F

spring

Cool, 35-55 F with late melts

fall

Crisp, 35-60 F and colorful river hillsides

How to Get There

Drive US-1 or Route 162 along the St. John River; the St. Hilaire border crossing connects to New Brunswick.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Frenchville outline

Outdoor Recreation

Snowmobiling in Maine: 14,000 Miles of Trails & Complete Guide

Winter (December - April)

Birding

Year-round (Peak: May-June for migration)

Cycling

May through October

Scenic Drives

Year-round (Peak: Fall foliage late September-mid October)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Frenchville known for?

Frenchville is known for its Acadian heritage and French language along the St. John River. The town features the historic 1910-era Frenchville Railroad Depot and Water Tank listed on the National Register of Historic Places, plus open views to New Brunswick farmland.

How far is Frenchville from Madawaska?

Frenchville is about 10 minutes from Madawaska via US-1 along the St. John River. The St. Hilaire border crossing connects to New Brunswick, and residents share services across the Valley.

What outdoor activities are available in Frenchville?

Frenchville offers biking on the Saint John Valley Heritage Trail along the river and old railbed, birdwatching for eagles, waterfowl, and migrating songbirds, and scenic drives along US-1 and Route 162.