Maine is New England’s biggest state. So, you shouldn’t be shocked to find out that it’s home to some of the region’s most popular destinations. And if you’re a leaf peeper, you may wonder where is the best fall foliage in Maine. Lucky for you, we’re here to answer that! Normally, peak fall foliage happens in Maine at the end of September and the beginning of October in the north. However, the central and southern region usually hit their peak around mid and late October, respectively. Whether you want to spend your fall in a charming little town in Maine or visit its many parks, the views won’t be disappointing. From Lubec to Camden, have fun peeping the colorful leaves!
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Lubec
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The first option we want to show you is Lubec, which is located in the easternmost part of the state. Surrounded by forests, this town is a brilliant place to enjoy the fall foliage. Once fall comes, it’ll be saturated with red, yellow, and orange colors. Usually, the best time to enjoy the foliage here is between the last week of September and the beginning of October.
There are so many beautiful spots in Lubec that people deem Instagram-worthy. However, the most popular place is probably the Quoddy Head State Park. Home to West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, its surrounding area offers breathtaking views of the fall foliage. You can also find several trails nearby in case you’re in the mood to hike.
Pros
- Lubec is the first place in the US to see the sunrise.
- Staying here means you’ll have countless hiking, fishing, and kayaking opportunities.
- It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Cons
- There’s not a lot of nightlife and shopping here.
Where to Stay: It’s really hard not to like the West Quoddy Station LLC. Set within the Quoddy Head State Park, the location of this lodging is perfect. It allowed us to enjoy the activities around Lubec easily. From hiking to fishing, you name it. We stayed at the holiday home, and we had a blast. The kitchen was clean and fully equipped with all the things we needed, and there was also a BBQ. Our room may look outdated, but it was super cozy, especially the beds.
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Kennebunkport
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Kennebunkport is one of those places that deserve more spotlight. This coastal town is gorgeous. Once you arrive, you’ll see beautiful walks and fantastic architecture. Additionally, the restaurants are all great and worth trying. When you’re in the fall, we’re sure you’ll never want to leave the town. The leaves change color from the middle to the end of October.
Walk along the Kennebunk River, and thank us later! The views of the stunning river, along with the red, yellow, and orange leaves, are truly a sight to behold. Aside from enjoying the fall foliage, you can also go for a walk or hike. Sounds too tiring for you? You can go visit the beach or explore the town’s local shops and restaurants.
Pros
- It’s a small town with plenty of historic buildings and sites.
- There are several beautiful beaches in the area.
- The food here is delicious, especially the seafood!
Cons
- Since it’s small, it can get crowded pretty fast.
Where to Stay: With an on-site restaurant, Kennebunkport Inn should be your go-to hotel when in town. Dock Square, along with its eateries and shops, is only a few steps away. Our stay was made comfortable thanks to our room, which may be small in space but big in style. In addition to that, this inn also offers free beach cruiser bikes for guests.
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The Forks
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Are you a fan of rafting? Then why not come to The Forks this fall? It’s the perfect place to be for those who want to take in the views of the changing leaves with a paddle in their hand. Set in the heart of Western Maine, most leaf peppers visit The Forks from late September to early October. It’s when the leaves are at their peak, and the weather is just nice.
When talking about The Forks, we also have to mention Moxie Falls. It’s a must-do hike in the area. One of New England’s tallest waterfalls, the hike to the falls is relatively easy and short, which is perfect for beginners. Once you’re up there, you’ll be enchanted by the views. No matter how you enjoy the fall foliage in The Forks, your fall trip will surely be memorable.
Pros
- From hiking to biking and rafting, the choice of outdoor activities to enjoy is endless.
- It’s an exceptionally great place for those who enjoy nature.
- The area is home to a variety of trees and plants.
Cons
- There aren’t many big-city attractions here.
Where to Stay: Your visit to The Forks won’t be complete without a stay at the Inn by the River. The highlight of this inn is none other than its garden, which turns exceptionally stunning in the fall. Whenever we had the time, we would chill on the front porch and enjoy the views of the Kennebec River. Our Double Room was extremely comfortable. We were welcomed by champagne, and the room also allowed us to take a look at the garden whenever we wanted.
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Millinocket
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Most Popular. If you’ve never been to Millinocket before, it’s time to plan your trip. It’s a great place to visit during the fall for its beautiful fall foliage. The town is located in the heart of Maine’s North Woods, and the leaves here change color in late September and peak around early October. The trees will turn a variety of colors, including oranges, yellows, and reds.
There are so many ways to enjoy the foliage in Millinocket. Visitors can do many outdoor activities during this time of the year, like hiking and biking. In addition to that, you can also take a scenic drive on the Katahdin Woods and Waters Byway or stroll around the town. Make sure to also explore some of the town’s charming shops and restaurants. By the way, this town is also featured on our list of the best places in New England to see fall foliage, so make sure to give that listing a read!
Pros
- The scenery in Millinocket is among the most beautiful in Maine.
- It has a unique, small-town charm you can’t find elsewhere.
- It’s the gateway to Mount Katahdin.
Cons
- Some people may not like staying in a remote area like Millinocket.
Where to Stay: Who says budget accommodations can’t give you comfort and satisfaction? The Baxter Park Inn has plenty to offer without making you dig deep into your pocket. During our time there, we were able to start our day with a complimentary breakfast. You can also swim in the heated swimming pool and sweat it out in the sauna.
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Blue Hill
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Bar Harbor is another town in Maine worth visiting if you want to see fall foliage. It’s widely known for its colorful foliage, which usually peaks in late September or the beginning of October. There are so many spots to witness the changing leaves, but the most popular one is perhaps Blue Hill Mountain. It offers views of the peninsula and the surrounding area. Plus, there are many hiking trails to the top.
In addition to the mountain, you can also consider going to Hayes Pond. Surrounded by colorful forests, this place is simply beautiful. It’s also a popular spot for fishing and kayaking. No matter where you’re heading, you may want to go early to avoid the sea of leaf peepers. Nevertheless, we’re sure you won’t regret visiting this town.
Pros
- Surrounded by mountains and forests, the scenery in Blue Hill is breathtaking.
- There are many art galleries in town, making it a haven for artists.
- Set on the cost, this town is also known for its fresh seafood.
Cons
- It can get crowded, especially in the fall.
Where to Stay: Having a trip to Blue Hill this fall? Christine’s Cottage is the perfect place to be. This holiday home features one bedroom, one bathroom, a washing machine, and a fully-equipped kitchen. We had so much fun staying here as it felt like our home. The kitchen had everything we needed to cook our comfort food, and the on-site garden made the property even more beautiful.
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Bethel
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There are a number of reasons why you should go to Bethel this fall. For one, it’s located in the heart of the White Mountains. This means you’ll have endless opportunities to witness the leaves in the mountains and valleys change color. So, when is the best time to see fall foliage in Maine? If you’re in Bethel, the leaves will change color from the end of September to mid-October. Not to mention, Bethel also has many scenic drives that offer unmatched views of the foliage.
While the town of Bethel is known for its excellent skiing experience, there are still plenty of activities to keep you busy in the fall. It has so many beautiful hiking trails, relaxing waterfalls, and other fun water activities. This small town also has tons of historic buildings to explore, so make sure to take your time to enjoy everything it has to offer.
Pros
- Aside from leaf-peeping, you can also go hiking, as Bethel has so many trails, ranging from easy to challenging.
- It’s also home to several campgrounds, perfect for a weekend getaway.
- For a small town, it has a surprisingly wide variety of food.
Cons
- It can get crowded during peak seasons.
Where to Stay: On a budget and looking for a nice place to stay in Bethel? Look no further than West Bethel Motel. This down-to-earth accommodation may not be the fanciest, but it sure is a comfy place to call home. We booked the Standard Queen Room, and it came with free toiletries, a plush bed, and executive lounge access. Our room was soundproofed, so we were able to sleep like a baby.
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Rangeley
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While there are so many picturesque spots in Maine, Rangeley is one of our favorites. Trust us; you won’t regret coming to this town. It’s set in the western mountains of Maine, and once here, you’ll be surrounded by forests full of maple, oak, and birch trees. They’ll all turn into shades of red, orange, and yellow once fall comes. If you’re wondering where to spend your fall weekend, this may be the place to be.
Aside from witnessing the fall foliage, there’s still lots to do in Rangeley. For one, you can hike to the top of Saddleback Mountain and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area. We also recommend going for a boat ride on Rangeley Lake, which is the town’s arguably most iconic attraction. Don’t forget to end your day with a meal at one of the town’s delicious restaurants, many of which offer outdoor dining areas with views of the foliage.
Pros
- Perfect for boating, Rangeley is home to many pristine lakes and waterways.
- It’s also home to many hiking trails, which become even more beautiful in the fall.
- The people here are friendly and welcoming.
Cons
- It doesn’t have those big attractions you usually see in major cities.
Where to Stay: Only 0.68 mi (1.1 km) away from Rangeley Lake is Rangeley Saddleback Inn, one of our favorite accommodations in the town. This is a pet-friendly lodging designed to give you a comfortable stay. When we were there, we would spend our free time lounging near the fire pit and taking a dip in the whirlpool. The rustic room wasn’t the biggest, but it had enough space for us and our stuff. It was also clean, with well-maintained rooms.
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Fort Kent
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Another place in Maine to consider is Fort Kent, a small fishing town that becomes somewhat more beautiful than it already is every fall. Fort Kent is home to over 3.5 million acres of land, so the scenery here is like nowhere else, especially in the fall. The peak foliage season in this area is typically from late September to early October, depending on the weather.
The charming town of Fort Kent features beautiful forests, canals, and rivers. There are so many things you can enjoy during the season besides feasting your eyes with the foliage. Outdoor enthusiasts can go hiking, kayaking, and even canoeing. Want to extend your trip to the town? Great, as it’s also known for its dog sled races that are held every winter.
Pros
- It’s a small, historical town that’s full of stories.
- Fort Kent is a nice destination for you to enjoy the outdoors.
- It’s not as crowded as other top fall foliage spots in Maine.
Cons
- This isn’t an ideal place for those who are looking for the hustle and bustle of big cities.
Where to Stay: When it comes to accommodation, Fort Kent doesn’t really give you that many choices. You don’t have to worry, though, as Four Points by Sheraton Edmundston Hotel & Conference Center it is only half an hour’s drive away. Set in the city of Edmundston, this hotel has everything travelers need. Our Deluxe King Room was spotless and had everything we expected. The indoor pool was well-maintained, and the fitness center was equipped with modern equipment. All of the staff members were also so kind and friendly to us.
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Camden
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Best Town. Are you still wondering where is the best fall foliage in Maine? Consider visiting Camden! The fall colors here are nothing short of breathtaking, and the trees normally change their color at the end of September and peak at the beginning of October. Some of leaf peekers’ favorite spots to enjoy fall foliage are Camden Hills State Park, Mount Battie, and many more.
Need some tips about visiting Camden? If you’re visiting the town during the fall, you’ll need to bring many layers of clothing as the weather there can change quickly. Also, it’s a popular spot for leaf-peeping so it can get crowded. And while you’re there, make sure to also visit the farms in the area. You can go there to pick some apples and pumpkins.
Pros
- Camden offers tons of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
- From its historic downtown to waterfront views, the town of Camden has a lot to explore.
- Set in the Midcoast region of Maine, the fall colors here are exceptionally beautiful.
Cons
- The weather can be unpredictable.
Where to Stay: We’ve stayed at the Country Inn at Camden Rockport before, and we had a blast. Just outside of Camden, this inn was only a short drive away from Camden Hills State Park. We booked the suite, and we enjoyed it a lot. It was decorated in a country theme and looked super elegant. We also made sure to enjoy the hotel’s facilities, like its swimming pool and gym. Speaking of which, did you know this hotel is also named one of the best hotels with a jacuzzi in the room in Maine?
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Moosehead Lake
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Best Lake. South of Baxter State Park is Moosehead Lake. Do yourself a favor and go visit this lake this fall! The leaves on the trees here will change their color from green to red, orange, gold, and brown. The entire lake is transformed into a gorgeous kaleidoscope of color when fall comes. And to have the best views, you may want to hike your way to the top of Pinnacle Pursuit.
Need more reasons to visit the lake? Well, this isn’t just a random, beautiful lake that happens to be in Maine. It’s also the biggest lake in the state, the second-biggest one in New England, and the biggest mountain lake in the eastern US. We can go on and on about why you should come here, but there’s no better way to appreciate this lake than by witnessing its beauty with your own eyes.
Pros
- The wildlife here is more active as they’re preparing for winter.
- The weather during the fall is perfect for outdoor activities.
- You can spend hours moose-watching here.
Cons
- While you can swim in the lake, it can be pretty cold in the fall.
Where to Stay: The Leisure Life is nothing fancy, but it’s one of the best accommodation options near Moosehead Lake. With views of the mountain, the rooms here are nothing short of comfy. Ours came with a kitchenette and was more spacious than we first thought. We would spend our morning on the balcony before heading to the on-site restaurant next to the hotel.
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Acadia National Park
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Best Park. Acadia National Park is one of Maine’s most beautiful attractions, and it brings tons of visitors year-round. However, it takes things to a whole new level during the fall. Filled with shades of oranges, golds, and reds, this park is one of the best places to visit if you want to enjoy the fall foliage. Set on the state’s central coast, the park is loved for its stunning views and fall colors reflected in the lakes.
If you can spend hours enjoying the views and nature, you’ll love spending your time here. The park is also home to various deciduous trees, including oaks, birches, and maples. The peak foliage season here is usually in the middle of October. Better yet, the crowds aren’t as overwhelming as in the summer months, which is another reason why you should come here during the fall.
Pros
- You can do so many activities in the park, including camping, fishing, and hiking.
- It’s a diverse park with stunning scenery.
- The park is really well-maintained and has a variety of amenities.
Cons
- Visitors need to buy an entrance pass.
Where to Stay: The Bar Harbor Grand Hotel is one of the nearest accommodations to the park. We’ve been here before, and we can confidently recommend it to you. At this hotel, both parking and breakfast are free. Thanks to the heated swimming pool and gym, we were also kept busy throughout our stay. Our room featured a classic decoration that somehow made us feel at home.
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Our Verdict!
No matter where you go, your fall vacation will surely be a memorable one as the views the places above offer are simply mesmerizing. However, we can’t help but have some favorites, which is why we’ve categorized some of them according to the following criteria:
- Best Park: Acadia National Park
- Best Lake: Moosehead Lake
- Best Town: Camden
- Most Popular: Millinocket
Is Maine or Vermont better for fall foliage?
Honestly, both are great! Both are located in New England, which is known for its stunning fall colors. However, the fall foliage usually peaks earlier in Vermont. But if you’re looking for a more dramatic setting, Maine may be the better choice, thanks to its rugged coastline.
Is October a good time to visit Maine?
Yes! In fact, October is the best time for fall foliage in Maine. There are many things to do in Maine in October, and the foliage is at its best that month.
What should I wear in Maine in early October?
We recommend bringing a heavy winter coat. Even though it’s not winter yet, things can get unpredictable and cold in October.
