The Ultimate Road Trip: From Burlington, Vermont to Harpswell, Maine

Are you planning a road trip from Burlington, Vermont to Harpswell, Maine? You're in for a treat! This scenic drive spans over 250 miles and offers breathtaking views of the Northeastern coast of the United States. Here are a few different routes you can take, along with some tips for places to stop along the way.

Route 1: I-89 S and I-93 S

This is the quickest route, taking approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes to drive the 250-mile distance. Begin by taking I-89 S towards Concord, NH, then switch to I-93 S towards Boston. From Boston, take I-95 N to Harpswell.

While this route is the fastest, it doesn't offer as many scenic viewpoints as some of the other options. However, there are certainly still some great stops to make along the way. Consider grabbing a bite to eat in Concord, or taking a stroll through historic downtown Portsmouth, NH.

Route 2: I-89 S and US-4 E

If you're looking to break up the monotony of highways, consider taking this route, which takes approximately 4 hours. Begin by taking I-89 S to US-4 E in Lebanon. Continue to follow US-4 E until you reach I-95 in Brunswick.

This route offers stunning views of rural Vermont and New Hampshire, as well as a few quaint towns to stop in along the way. Consider taking a hike in the Green Mountains, or stopping in the charming town of Lebanon for a coffee or a snack. Once you cross into Maine, consider stopping at Popham Beach State Park for a picnic or swim.

Route 3: VT-7 S and US-1

This route takes just over 5 hours, but offers some of the best scenery along the way. Begin by taking VT-7 S to US-4 E, then switch to US-1 in Portland, ME.

This route passes through some of the most picturesque towns in Vermont and New Hampshire, including Bennington, Brattleboro, and Portsmouth. Stop for a photo op on the historic Bennington Battle Monument, or take a stroll down the charming brick sidewalks of Market Square in downtown Portsmouth. In Maine, consider visiting Portland Head Light for some of the most iconic coastal views in the state.

Route 4: VT-100 S and US-1

This beautiful route takes just over 5 hours and offers some of the most scenic views of Vermont and Maine. Begin by taking VT-100 S to US-4 E, then switch to US-1 in Bath, ME.

Along the way, you'll pass through idyllic towns like Rochester and Bethel, Vermont, as well as Freeport, Maine, home to some of the best outlet shopping in the state. In Maine, consider stopping in Bath for a visit to the beautiful Maine Maritime Museum, or taking a stroll along the picturesque streets of downtown Brunswick.

Final Thoughts

No matter which route you choose, your road trip from Burlington, Vermont to Harpswell, Maine is sure to be filled with stunning views and exciting pit stops. Take the time to explore charming towns and picturesque scenery along the way, and don't forget to bring a camera and your sense of adventure!