Explore DownEast Acadia in your own way.
Meander along one of our five scenic byways or the many self-guided trails, all supported by detailed maps and guides. Take in the length and breadth of our scenic splendor and the vibrant history and culture of our communities, all at your own pace.
Lighthouses: Visit all or just a few of our 27 lighthouses.
Scenic Byways:
-
DownEast Acadia is the only region in Maine with five scenic byways, exemplifying the plethora of scenic, cultural, and recreational opportunities available here.
-
Million Dollar View Scenic Byway - Unsurpassed views of the Chiputneticook chain of lakes (all teeming with fish), Mount Katahdin, Peekaboo Mountain, vistas of rolling hayfields, and the landscape of New Brunswick, Canada.
-
Bold Coast Scenic Byway - 125-mile route that invites visitors to explore the culture, history, wildlife, and rugged beauty of coastal DownEast Maine, including villages, lakes, forests, farms, and blueberry barrens.
-
Black Woods Scenic Byway - This 12.5-mile route starts in Franklin and extends easterly, encompassing trailheads and boat launches to our mountains and lakes.
-
Schoodic National Scenic Byway - Weaves through 27 miles of gorgeous fishing communities and breathtaking scenery, including a section of Acadia National Park, lighthouses, and historic architecture.
-
Acadia All-American Road - A 40-mile route encompassing Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island, featuring beaches, bicycling, foliage, hiking trails, islands, ocean views, and wildlife.
-
Maine Sculpture Trail - An outdoor exhibit of 34 sculptures spanning over 273 miles along the DownEast coast.
-
Downeast Fisheries Trail - Explore the culture and heritage of local fisheries.
-
DownEast Acadia Birding Trail - The best birding sites in the region, with maps and tips for birding year-round.
-
Maine Beer Trail - Small, handcrafted brewers Downeast who love to tell the stories of their beer names.
-
Maine Wine Trail - Our wineries produce grape and fruit wines, distilled spirits, meads, ciders and fortified wines - from the deep purple of wild blueberry to the tangy sparkle of apples and pears.