Driving Through Maine Northern Woods: 12 Unforgettable Things to Do in Maine

Maine Northern Woods is the ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts as there are plenty of activities, including kayaking, hiking, biking, boating, sightseeing, or skiing, that are suitable for everyone. Here is a list of unforgettable things to do in Maine.

1. Explore Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake is a must-visit while driving through the Northern Woods. It is Maine's largest lake that presents a picturesque view. For nature lovers, Moosehead Lake is paradise. Furthermore, there are plenty of things to do at this lake, including; ice fishing, kayaking, boating, canoeing, moose sighting, or ATVing.

This majestic region presents you with pristine beauty and a perfect atmosphere to relax and take in the natural beauty. It is also an ideal place for wildlife photography.

2. Visit Baxter State Park

Baxter State Park is located in the northern-central part of Maine. This state park boasts an expansive wilderness nestled over 200,000 acres. It is home to the most prominent and highest mountain in Maine, Mount Katahdin.

In addition, there are about 55-named mountains, plus several glacial formations, lakes, rivers, and waterfalls. This state park makes a must-visit area if you wish to create unforgettable memories while visiting Maine. Some common activities in this state park include hiking, camping, biking, hunting, fishing, and sightseeing.

3. Tour Lily Bay State Park

Lily Bay State Park is another incredible destination. You will find this site in Greenville on the eastern shore of the magnificent Moosehead Lake. This state park boasts 925 acres of land that provide plenty of year-round activities.

Some top things to do at this state park include camping, biking, hiking, ATVing, and swimming at the beach. You can also enjoy walking along the two-mile shoreline. The must-do activity in this region is waterfront camping. Waterfront camping will ensure you relish Moosehead Lake's remarkable and fabulous views.

4. Fish at the Allagash River

The Allagash River provides the perfect place for those who seek adventure and solitude. One of the best times to visit this river is between May and July. During this period, you enjoy fishing the Native brook trout fish species.

Other fish species that you will find in this river include the Lake whitefish and lake trout. Besides May to July, you can also visit during winter, when ice fishing is incredibly popular. The Allagash River is also an ideal place to enjoy boating.

5. Go for a Moose wildlife tour

Most visitors coming to Maine want to see a moose before they head home. Seeing one of these clumsy creatures is a little mystery and intrigue. The moose population in Maine is approximately 76,000, making moose the most popular wildlife in the United States.

To see the moose, take a wildlife tour in their native environment. The best way to experience this moose is through a canoe tour. A canoe tour will drive you through the shallow bodies of water and ponds where moose feed.

This site can be highly thrilling as you will get an up and close view of the moose. You can capture amazing pictures of moose, hear them munching and slurping pond weeds, and enjoy a peaceful setting.

6. See the sunrise at the Quoddy Head Lighthouse

Quoddy Head Lighthouse is something out of a fairy tale. The lighthouse has a scenic candy-themed décor that makes it an attractive place to make a stop. It is also a beautiful spot where you can view the first rays of the sun.

You will have several photo opportunities and beautiful views if you get there about thirty minutes before sunrise. This site can be very romantic during the sunrise hours.

7. Explore Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument has outdoor opportunities for everyone to enjoy. It provides incredible backcountry recreation in one of the vastest unspoiled wild lands in the country. The Katahdin Woods is home to several animals, including the Canada Lync and black bear.

This wild landscape also offers picturesque views of Mount Katahdin. In addition, the Katahdin Woods and Waters host plenty of geology, fauna, flora, woods, streams, rivers, and spectacular night skies for star gazing. Some popular activities to partake in this region include camping, hunting, bird watching, and hiking.

8. Stargaze at the International Dark Sky Park

The International Dark Sky Park lies at Northern Woods' edge. This land has a distinguished and exceptional quality of starry nights. The park's nocturnal environment is protected for public enjoyment, cultural heritage, and natural, scientific, and educational purposes.

It uses responsible outdoor lighting practices that protect the valuable natural resource view of the dark night skies. This park presents the perfect place to enjoy solitude and renew your spirits as you gaze into the beautiful skies.

9. Go ATV riding in the Folks

Going ATVing in the Northern Woods of Maine presents the perfect way to experience the great outdoors. ATV riding in Maine allows you to explore thousands of miles of the most spectacular ATV trails in the United States.

While ATV riding in the Folks, you can see fascinating mountain views, make scenic lakes stops, and access rivers. You can also ride through the woods to Maine's tallest waterfall, Moxie Falls. ATV riding presents the perfect way to clear your mind while enjoying scenic views.

10. Tour Mount Kineo State Park

Mount Kineo is about 800 feet tall, and it dramatically rises and dominates over Moosehead Lake in Maine. This majestic mountain provides miles of hiking trails, fascinating history, stunning views, and a golf course.

In addition, Mount Kineo is home to some of the rarest plants and peregrine falcons. At this site, you can take your time to breathe in the clean, fresh air while enjoying the stunning views of flora and fauna.

11. River raft in the Northern Rivers

River rafting in the Northern Rivers promises unforgettable river adventures. Furthermore, Maine boasts the best places for white water rafting. In this region, three dam-controlled rivers provide daily river rafting trips from May to October. These rivers include the Penobscot, Dead, and Kennebec rivers.

River rafting is incredibly enjoyable and beneficial to your health. It provides a great way to burn calories while enjoying the scenic view.

12. Shop at the L.L. Bean

Do you want to dress like a true Mainah? If yes, consider shopping for some gear from L.L. Bean. L.L. Bean is a staple in New England goods and clothing, and it has cozy flannel, excellent quality boots, and much more. When creating a list of things to do in Maine, include visiting their flagship store in Freeport and gazing at the famous giant Bean Boot. This definitely qualifies as one of the unforgettable things to do in Maine.

Wrapping it up

Driving through the Northern Woods in Maine presents a perfect opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. The best thing about Maine is that it has plenty of activities perfect for everyone. You can go camping, hiking, bird watching, fishing, stargazing, sightseeing, or river rafting.

However, the best way to get to these destinations is by car. Some of Maine's most beautiful and remote areas can only be reached by driving. Getting an auto loan can help you drive your dream car to Maine without having to pay it in full.