Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
In this region there are few roads running west to east. Low population is
one reason for that.
INTERESTING FACT:
Washington County may
cover 1.5 million acres, but is home to only 30,000 peo-
ple or so - less than the population of Bangor.
US 1 runs west to east along the coast. Route 9, also known as “The Air-
line,” which ends at the Canadian border in Calais, runs due west to
Brewer. The road sports a famous feature known as “The Whalesback,” a
glacial esker (long, winding, narrow sandhill), which proved to be the
ideal roadbed for early builders looking for ways across swampy, wet
ground.
In this area, the trout and salmon of renowned West Grand Lake await
the patient angler. The village of Grand Lake Stream, tidy in its pre-
served Victorian splendor, is in marked contrast to the poverty and eco-
nomic disadvantage just a few miles down the road.
The only other cross-region route lies farther north, a wide, dirt paper
company road known simply as “The Stud Mill Road.” Open to the public,
this private highway offers access to the deep interior and to put-in
points for spring canoe trips on the region's many modest-sized rivers.
With no road signs and many feeder roads it is easy to get lost in the maze
of haul roads in this area. But for many who venture here armed with lit-
tle more than a full tank of gas, a good DeLorme road atlas, and a thirst
for adventure, getting lost, and finding your own way out, is half the fun.
Note: Maine has one area code - 207.
Parks, Preserves & Beaches
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is without a doubt the crown jewel of ac-
cessible wildness in Maine. The park encompasses 54 square
miles and covers more than 40,000 acres. There are few places in
New England, much less Maine, offering as many recreational opportu-
nities as Acadia. From more than 100 miles of spectacular hiking trails,
to groomed-gravel carriage roads ideal for leisurely bicycle rides, to quiet
shores and lakes for paddling and picnicking, Acadia has it all. There is a
stable that provides carriage rides, several fresh-water swimming areas,
a saltwater swimming beach and numerous small boat launching ramps.
