Do you know where some of the best fall foliage scenic drives near Blue Hill are? If you’re looking for a way to fully experience the beauty of autumn while exploring the coast of Maine, check out the following routes to find the perfect road trip for your autumn vacation.
Acadia National Park Loop Road | 27 mi
This loop is one of the best ways to explore and appreciate the natural wonders of Acadia National Park, which is only 45 minutes from our peaceful Inn. Visiting in the fall, you will be one of the lucky guests to experience the unique beauty of Acadia at its best.
Start the loop near the Hulls Cove Visitor Center north of the island and follow the coast through Bar Harbor towards Sand Beach. Once at Sand Beach, you’ll have the opportunity to see Egg Rock Lighthouse, which is one of coastal Maine’s most architecturally unique lighthouses. As you continue south, the road will take you to highlights like the Thunder Hole and the spectacular Otter Cliff Overlook, then back up towards the boutiques, galleries, and restaurants on Mt. Desert Island.
Castine and Penobscot Bay Loop | 79 mi
We highly recommend this scenic loop through the local fishing villages if you want to tour the area while taking in the gorgeous fall foliage. Most of the towns are worth a stop to see the local architecture and art galleries, live music, shopping, and restaurants.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast in the sun-filled dining room of the Blue Hill Inn, and head south on Route 175 to skim the coast on your way to Brooklin. The sight of the colorful autumn leaves against the backdrop of the North Atlantic Ocean will be worth the trip from the get-go.
Once finished exploring Brooklin, head north towards Penobscot and Castine, where you can visit the Dice Head Light at the mouth of the Penobscot River. After that, drive inland to Ellsworth, where you can walk the gardens and trails at the historic Woodlawn Museum. Then, finally, head back south and end your spectacular day by cozying up by the fire at the Inn.
Bold Coast National Scenic Byway | 98 mi
If you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip, either on your way to Blue Hill or back to Eastern Maine, this is the scenic drive for you. Follow along the crashing waves of the coast of Maine between Lubec and Blue Hill to enjoy the picturesque views. Between the quaint fishing villages and marshes teaming with wildlife and wild blueberry patches, you’ll get the full coastal Maine experience all from the driver’s seat of your car.
When you’re in Lubec, check out the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse. This quintessential candy-striped lighthouse is the first place in the U.S. the sun touches at dawn. Other noteworthy stops along this route include Canada’s Campobello Island (adjacent to Lubec and home to Roosevelt Campobello International Park) and Bar Harbor.
For additional information, visit MaineFoliage.com. Are you ready to experience the best fall foliage scenic drives near Blue Hill? Check availability today and treat yourself to the ultimate coastal Maine autumn getaway. Round out your day of scenic views with some delicious coastal Maine food. Check out the top Blue Hill Maine Peninsula.
Have you missed this year’s foliage season but are still craving an invigorating hike in the beautiful Maine forests? Check out our list of the top winter trails near Blue Hill!
Published September 2023