We often yearn to escape to a place that is gloriously mild all year-round–a place for all seasons. Somewhere far from the everyday and filled with spontaneity, beautiful autumn foliage, frosty winter kisses and the sounds of the rushing river. This may sound like somewhere that only exists in children’s storybooks, but the truth is that it is real and is just waiting to be discovered. The place? Maine.
If visiting in autumn, you will immediately be captured by its incredible scenery, which is nothing short of breathless. In the midst of the mountains, lakes and forests, vivid colours appear to dance away on the leaves of trees. But perhaps the best way to truly appreciate the beauty and crisp air of this enchanting place is to engage in some adventure.
For those who love nature and wildlife, Maine holds vast treasures, such as the Baxter State Park (Maine’s largest) and the Acadia National Park. These are places where you will want to keep your camera ready at all times and your heart open to extremes. At Baxter State Park, you can climb to the peak of Mt. Katahdin as well as tread along the coast whilst admiring the flora and fauna. In Acadia National Park, don’t be surprised if you should chance upon one a moose, deer or even a bear or two while walking through the pine forests.
Another place that is definitely worth a visit is Daggett Rock, Maine’s largest glacial erratic rumoured to have fallen off Saddleback Mountain. The rock itself is split in half and you can walk in between its walls. Its size and height is so extraordinary that you will find yourself holding your breath in amazement. If you are lucky (and daring) enough, you can also try climbing it, but be careful for it can be a slippery trip down. Daggett Rock is located in Phillip’s and is the tourist attraction of the town.
Maine is also a great place to go blueberry picking during the early months of summer and the late stages of spring. Rangeley is famous for its annual Blueberry Festival held during the month of August, where locals bake various blueberry desserts such as muffins and pies. At the festival you will also find several arts and crafts made by local artisans. And for all mushroom fans, there are plenty of mushrooms of all shapes and sizes just waiting to be picked and eaten.
During the autumn, spring and summer months you can also kayak down the rivers, such as Kennebec River, or pay a visit to the famous Rangeley Lakes and take part in water skiing, tubing, or boating. Fishing is another popular sport, and fish such as salmon and bass are a common catch. And make sure you don’t miss in the adventure of a lifetime by going white water rafting down Penobscot, Kennebec, or Dead River. In winter, take a trip to Sugarloaf Mountain or 
Saddleback Mountain and ski down the slopes (and don’t forget to reward yourself with a healthy mug of hot cocoa at the end of the day…).
Although the exploration of parks and lakes may be exciting to some, there are others who prefer the less adventurous side of Maine. For those of you who wish to steer clear of bumping into wildlife, you can enjoy reliving history through the marvelous covered bridges, forts, and museums that span the state. Two spots that deserve a visit are Maine’s State Museum and a walk down the Portland Freedom Trial. The state museum holds various exhibits of precious stones and rocks from the region as well as archeological findings of civilizations past.
Whether it is whale watching, antiquing, or hiking, Maine has something for everyone. It is a place of adventure and family fun; a place to relax and enjoy the quiet sunsets by a lakefront cabin, while listening to the song of the loons. It is a place of undiscovered secrets just waiting to be discovered.
Top image courtesy of mainearts.maine.gov
