Mainepedia
Steuben, Maine

Steuben, Maine

Wild blueberries and remote Downeast coast

Overview

Steuben embodies remote Downeast Maine, with wild blueberry barrens, rugged coastline, and the Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge. This quiet town offers authentic character far from tourist routes.

Key Facts

Population 1,150
Region Downeast & Acadia
County Washington
Founded 1795
Nearest City Ellsworth (35 miles), Machias (25 miles)

What Steuben Is Known For

Steuben Local Highlights

Wild Blueberries
Major blueberry production area with vast barrens.
Petit Manan Wildlife Refuge
Coastal refuge with trails and seabird colonies.
Remote Character
True Downeast—few services, authentic rural coast.
Dyer Bay
Working lobster harbor and scenic tidal bay.

Things to Do

1
Hike Petit Manan Refuge
Explore coastal trails and view seabirds.
2
Visit during blueberry season
See vast blue barrens in late summer.
3
Kayak Dyer Bay
Paddle protected bay waters.
4
Explore remote coast
Find solitude on rocky shores.
5
Bird watch
Excellent birding at refuge and coast.

Living in Steuben

Steuben offers remote rural coastal living at very affordable prices. Limited services mean self-sufficiency required. Economy based on blueberries, lobstering, and seasonal work. Appeals to those seeking solitude, land, and authentic Downeast character. Limited schools and services.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Cool coastal, 60-72°F

winter

Cold, 18-32°F

spring

Cool and foggy, 35-50°F

fall

Crisp, 40-58°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Bald eagles Seabirds at refuge Moose Black bears

How to Get There

Route 1 east from Ellsworth, turn onto Route 186 south. Remote location, 35 miles from Ellsworth.

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

Satellite preview

Steuben outline

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Steuben known for?

Steuben is known for its vast wild blueberry production with dramatic barrens, the Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge with coastal trails and seabird colonies, and authentic remote Downeast character far from tourist routes.

What is Petit Manan Wildlife Refuge?

Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge in Steuben offers coastal hiking trails and is home to significant seabird colonies including Atlantic puffins. The refuge protects critical habitat and provides excellent birdwatching opportunities year-round.

When is the best time to visit Steuben?

Late summer during blueberry season (August) offers spectacular views of the vast blue barrens. Spring and fall are excellent for birdwatching at Petit Manan refuge. The remote location and limited services mean visitors should plan ahead.