Mother Nature is proud of Maine because of its lushness, making any relaxation in the Pine Tree State in its purest form. The New England destination got its name because it teems with pine trees, making any stay fine, if not the finest. Another of Maine’s claim to fame is that around 90 percent of it is still forested, the highest in the United States. Indeed, the state is green all around, making it a refuge for nature lovers.Bustling Portland is one of Maine's top attractions, alongside the charming Bar Harbor and the breathtaking Acadia National Park. However, those who want to experience quiet moments should head to off-the-beaten destinations where the hidden treasures are the inspiring moments.
10 Monhegan
A place where peace need not be negotiated. That’s Monhegan, an island off the Gulf of Maine, where peace is a lifestyle. There are no honking cars on the island, no paved roads, and electricity was only introduced in the mid-80s. Indeed, serenity comes easy in this Maine charmer, so it’s no surprise that artists flock to it. Non-creatives are also welcome to explore its coasts, forests, lighthouse, trails, and historical structures. When they get home, they will experience a surge of creativity, wanting to return with a paintbrush and canvas.
9 Bristol
The resort town of Bristol is on the Pemaquid Peninsula, and its playful gulf waters await those who want to make a splash. It has been around since 1765, so it’s teeming with history and heritage. For starters, it has the simple yet beautiful Pemaquid Point Light, which tourists can climb, weather permitting. History buffs can also tour the Fisherman’s Museum, the ruins of Fort William Henry, the quiet Harrington Meeting House, and the expansive Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site. Meanwhile, trekkers are welcome to complete the scenic trails of Louds Island. Bristol offers the best.
8 Belgrade Lakes
When talking about traveling, crystal-clear water is the main dish of Maine. To experience the state’s fine waters, tourists should head to Belgrade, where seven ponds and lakes await outdoor lovers. The waterways attract fishers who want to challenge freshwater foes, but those raring mellow moments can just enjoy a float. Peaceful and picturesque, this Kennebec Valley destination aims to offer refuge, easily attainable whatever the month, more so during the off-season. Waking up with the pristine waterway welcoming tourists makes a Belgrade stay a must-repeat.
7 Moose Point State Park
Moose Point State Park overlooks the pristine Penobscot Bay, and though there are no moose in this recreational spot, tourists will still feel the call of the wild. It is near the busy Route 1, so drivers often stop by it, taking a few snaps of the bay or just to stretch, with scenic views at that. Visiting it for a picnic means experiencing calm, while beachcombers can check out tidal pools. To get the most out of their stay in Moose Point, conquering the trails is a must.
6 Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park is a hiker’s paradise, thanks to its scenic trails. The routes can be finished in 10 minutes to over an hour or longer because trekkers would want to stop now and then not to rest but to appreciate the stunning views of Casco Bay. It has a varied ecosystem, from forests to salt marsh estuaries. Hikers can see the nearby Googins Island, where ospreys flock. Those visiting in summer can observe the migration of ospreys, but whatever the season, Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park aims to wow wanderers.
5 Round The Mountain Trail
Those who want to get active while enveloped by scenic sights should take on the challenge of Round the Mountain Trail. Located on Ragged Mountain, this path connects almost 25 miles of multi-use trails in the towns of Hope, Camden, and Rockport. However, only its first 5.5 miles are currently available for bikers and hikers, enough to satisfy those raring to fill their adrenaline cups. The wide and well-maintained Round the Mountain Trail offers satisfying moments for outdoor lovers, much so that they’ll be tempted to finish the whole stretch.
4 Fish River National Scenic Byway
Road-trippers looking for a real joyride should span the Fish River National Scenic Byway, a 37-mile beauty only Maine can provide. It spans Route 11 along the pristine Fish River, a one-hour drive that connects Aroostook County and New Brunswick, Canada. Many side trips await tourists along this scenic route, and when they decide to play with the river’s waters, they can swim, fish, kayak, or join a boat ride. Hikers and sightseers are also welcome, but whatever tourists plan to do, they’ll go home satisfied after a trip along Fish River.
3 Small Falls
Can cascades have a “cute size?” Maine says yes, and it proudly presents Small Falls in Township E. The attraction is frequented by locals for a scenic picnic, with the roaring waters as a relaxing companion. Those who want to reach the 54-foot waterfalls can start a hike from Phillips that only takes 11 minutes to finish. Trekkers can reach it in a shorter time if they are so excited to dip in the cool and playful waters of Small Falls.
2 Lane’s Island Preserve
Lane’s Island in Casco Bay is a perfect hangout spot for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. After all, it has a lush preserve teeming with aquatic wonders. There are rustic trails in this charming destination, and trekkers can explore the entire preserve. Picnickers are welcome to place their mats by the shore, but if they want to get the most out of it, they can opt to camp. Lane’s Island and its preserve won’t disappoint.
1 Elephant Mountain
Elephant Mountain offers a chance for tourists to pause and appreciate peace. Its most famous spot is where a Boeing B-52 crashed while on a training mission. The 0.4-mile loop trek to the memorial is quick and easy, and debris from the 1963 crash can still be seen along the way. The meandering path will take trekkers through a dense forest, and once in the memorial, they are encouraged to be respectful, not taking debris and leaving no trace. After all, a hike should also be a time for solitude.