Maine

I took the scenic route across Maine, and I’m so glad I did! Maine is so darn cute! Route 3 took me from Augusta through small country roads spattered with shops selling ice cream, antiques and handmade crafts. Driving through the town of Searsport I felt like I had taken a step back in time. Along the roadside were old-fashioned buildings and houses, creating a truly historic New England feel.

Acadia National Park

I got to Acadia National Park just before the sun began to set. Driving the park loop road, and up to Cadillac Mountain, I experienced some wonderful views through the mist of the setting sun. Acadia is set on a island, with the ocean to one side and rolling hills and lakes to the other. Standing atop any peak in the park offers remarkable views. I also got my first glimpse into the parks own history as I passed under the carriage road bridges.

I capped the day off with a true vagabonding move, camping out in the Walmart parking lot. Shout out to the Walmart in Ellsworth, ME for the hospitality. While not a huge fan of Walmart, most will let you camp overnight, which is convenient in a pinch.

The next morning I headed back into the park for some hiking. After taking a look at the map I chose a trail close to the ocean, hoping for some ocean views. I was not disappointed. The trail began walking, climbing and scrambling over rocks and through heavy forest. The forest broke shortly and the trail opened up into spectacular ocean views, summiting at a 525ft. I continued on the trail to a beatiful mountain lake, more rocky terrain, and never ending gorgeous surroundings, ocean on one side, hills and mountains on the other.

Nothing felt better after a long, hot day of hiking than soaking my feet in the icy Atlantic Ocean at Sand Beach.

I’ll admit I gave up on the car-camping and booked myself a room at the Highbrook Motel in Bar Harbor. I only mention it here because it’s the most quaint, New England place, just adding to my whole quaint New England experience. After a much needed shower (it was hot and very humid!) I headed into Bar Harbor for dinner and a much needed beverage – and met some amazingly friendly locals to cap off a great day!

The final morning I took an easy stroll through some of Acadia’s historic carriage roads, built by John D. Rockefeller between 1913 and 1940 for use of horses, bicyclists and hikers, braving the heat and humidity before heading back.

The Maine state motto is, “Maine – The Way Life Should Be.” I have to say during my time here, I can’t argue. Thanks Maine for a great New England weekend!