Scenic Byways

The National Scenic Byways Program was established in 1991 to help recognize, preserve, and enhance selected roads throughout the United States.

The U.S. Secretary of Transportation recognizes these roads based on factors such as archeological, cultural, historic, natural, recreational, and scenic intrinsic qualities. Maine is proud to serve as home for four of these specially designated byways.

Acadia All-American Road: 40.0 miles in length- Takes three hours to drive or eight hours to visit.

Acadia National Park: a United States National Park located southwest of Bar Harbor. The park includes much of Mount Desert Island and associated smaller islands along the Atlantic coast. (Acadia National Park charges an entrance fee.)

From craggy shorelines and granite-capped mountains to crystal lakes and spruce–fir forests, Acadia All American Road is perfect for exploring. Extensive carriage roads and hiking trails give access to Acadia National Park. See fishing and sailboats in Frenchman’s Bay or go back in time to see the “cottages” of old Bar Harbor.

Old Canada Road Scenic Byway: 78.2 miles in length – Takes about two and a half hours to drive or eight hours to visit. Tracing the route of generations of travelers between Maine and Quebec, this segment of U.S. Rt. 201 winds right alongside the Kennebec River, Wyman Lake, and the Dead River. Encounter old-time villages and abundant wildlife in mountain ridges, forests, and rivers.

US 201 begins in Brunswick and follows the Kennebec River from Gardiner, Maine, to The Forks where it winds away from the river and runs up into the north woods mountains before reaching Jackman and extending into Quebec, Canada at the border crossing.

Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway: 35.6 miles in length – Takes two to three hours to drive and eight or more hours to visit. This byway follows Routes 17 and 4 in the western part of the state which is home to the many scenic lakes and streams that the region is known for. The route follows the ridgeline of the Appalachian Mountains before dropping into rolling hills and valleys. The Height of Land on Route 17 is the centerpiece of this scenic drive, offering scenic views of Mooselookmeguntic Lake. The scenic countryside and rolling mountains set the backdrop for fantastic vistas making it a popular route for travelers. Schoodic Scenic Byway: 29.0 miles in length – Takes one hour to drive or eight hours to visit.

The Schoodic Scenic Byway: travels through the eastern seaboard, including the “quiet” side of Acadia National Park. The landscape remains unspoiled, revealing a part of Maine where lobstering and clamming are still a tradition. Discover the local artisans’ crafts and let the mountains, coastal islands, historic buildings, and lighthouses enchant you.