This Maine Road is One of the Best Scenic Drives in America

While Maine has a lot to offer, one of the biggest reasons people choose to visit our state is the breathtaking scenery.

It is so incredibly varied, too. We have everything from rugged coastline, to sandy beaches, to thick forests, to majestic mountains.

Some people choose to see the beauty of Maine on foot or by boat, but most of know that our scenic roads are the best way to see the state.

No, we're not talking about the I-95! We're talking about the rural routes and back roads that snake their way across our state. Some of these roads, like the southern part of Route 1, are heavily traveled by locals and visitors. Others, like Route 17, are much less traveled.

You may be surprised to learn that one of the most scenic stretches of road through Maine is also one of the most rural.

Route 1 Through Aroostook County

One of the best scenic drives you can take in Maine is up Route 1, from Houlton to Van Buren.

The road takes you along a ridge that overlooks farmland and forests. And, even though it is a ridge, you'll still see some decent sized (for Maine) mountains on your drive north.

During your drive you'll pass through a series of quaint small towns like Houlton, Mars Hill, Presque Island, and Caribou. In addition to the towns themselves, you'll have a chance to see some beautiful Maine farms, power-producing wind turbines, and even colleges.

Google Maps

The trip will also take you past a massive scale model of the solar system! Get details about where to see all of the planets HERE.

While it is out of the way for many visitors, one of the benefits is the lack of traffic. This is true even in the summer. The Southern Maine leg of Route 1 turns into a rolling parking lot during the height of the summer season, but Route 1 through Aroostook County is busy, but not clogged with visitors.

Have you ever driven through the area? What are your thoughts? What is your favorite scenic drive? Let us know by sending us a message in our app.