Best Times to Visit Maine for Outdoor Adventures and Seasonal Delights
With a dramatic rocky coastline broken by scenic beaches, a rich seafood tradition, lots of history, and ski resorts and state parks rising into the hills, Maine is known as Vacationland for good reason.
Summer and early fall are excellent times of year to enjoy the state’s natural beauty. However, if you can handle the cold, winter offers a whole different view and set of activities. This guide will help you choose the best time for your visit to Maine.
For Fresh Seafood and Outdoor Adventures, Come from June to September
Maine comes alive in the summer months, as holidaymakers gather across the state. From the sandy beaches of southern Maine to the forested hiking trails in the north and the seafood shacks all along the coast, there’s plenty to enjoy—along with many others enjoying the experience beside you.
The crowds lead to higher prices, so you’ll need to plan well in advance at hotels and campgrounds. The summer season in Maine is short yet sweet; the weather is generally hot and humid from late June through August. Make sure to bring an appetite, because the summertime seafood bonanza offers delicious mealtime options.
October and May: Ideal for Seasonal Color and Avoiding Crowds
Maine’s shoulder season is one of the best times to visit if you prefer a quieter experience at lower prices. Early October brings colorful foliage, apple picking, and cooler weather, while May is perfect for enjoying Maine without summer crowds.
Keep in mind that many seasonal businesses open their doors around Memorial Day. Bring a warm coat and layers, as some parts of the state can still see snow in spring or fall, especially in the north and at higher elevations.
November to April: Great for Snow Sports Despite the Chill
Winter is the low season for coastal and southern Maine, but a high season in western and northern regions, where outdoor recreation in the snow is the main draw. Maine boasts some of the best ski resorts on the East Coast, and northern Maine is popular for snowmobiling. Many hiking trails are groomed for the snow season and can be traversed using snowshoes or cross-country skis.
March still feels very much like winter across most of the state. You may see a glimpse of spring in the south; however, skiing and snowmobiling remain popular activities in northern parts of Maine. Portland and surrounding towns celebrate Maine Restaurant Week in early March, featuring special menus and deals at many of the state’s best restaurants. The fourth weekend of the month is traditionally reserved for Maine Maple Sunday, where sugar shacks open across the state selling sweet treats.
April: Maine’s Unofficial Fifth Season – Mud Season
The snow melts in the mountains, leading ski resorts to throw massive parties to celebrate the season’s end. The weather in April is unpredictable; one day it might snow, and the next it could reach 70°F (21°C). However, April signifies when Mainers emerge from hibernation to enjoy the early signs of spring, often donning shorts as soon as the temperature climbs to 50°F (10°C).
This article was first published on September 2, 2021, and updated on May 9, 2023.
