22 Nov A Move to Maine: Natural Beauty

When people think of New England,  a move to Maine usually isn’t the first state to come to mind. They think of Boston, Cape Cod and other Massachusetts cities along the Atlantic coast. They think of moderate size cities with small-town atmosphere, like Providence, Rhode Island. They think of old lighthouses overlooking rocky beaches, cold and snowy winters, the fiery reds and golds of autumn leaves.

They don’t usually think of Maine, but as it turns out, they are thinking of it after all.

Stunning Views

One of Maine’s primary draws is its breathtaking scenery. All along the eastern coast of the state are both rocky and sandy beaches, many of them surrounded by beautiful towns and seaside fishing villages. Standing on a cliff overlooking the North Atlantic with a majestic lighthouse nearby, watching the waves break against the rocks jutting out of the ocean, it’s easy to see why so many of America’s greatest writers have found inspiration here. Stephen King, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Harriet Beecher Stowe and Edna St. Vincent Millay are but a few of the famous authors to have called Maine home.

Those who prefer literal greener pastures are in luck, as Maine is still 90 percent forested, thus earning its nickname of the “Pine Tree State.” Its extensive pine forests make it one of the world’s leaders in the paper industry, not to mention a favorite for wildlife enthusiasts and hikers. A trek through the woods might reveal glimpses of moose, black bears, ermine, red foxes or even coyotes.

Safe and Friendly

Maine is renowned for its friendly residents, which translates into low crime rates. According to the FBI’s 2016 Crime in the United States report, the average rate of violent crime in the country is 397 incidents per 100,000 people. In 2016, Maine averaged only 123, making it statistically the safest state in the country.

Mild Summers, Wild Winters

For those who want to experience all four seasons, Maine has it all. The summers are mild and pleasant, with highs in the 70s and moderate rainfall. By October, the average temperature drops into the 50s, and the splendid fall colors emerge as the leaves begin to turn.

The winter months are where Maine really shines, however, as snowfall typically begins in November and continues through April, with December through March averaging over a foot of snow each month. Averaging 6 feet of snow every year, Maine offers a plethora of winter activities and world-class ski resorts for skiers and snowboarders. The state boasts over 14,000 miles of snowmobile trails that run from one end of the state to the other and through trail towns like Bethel, Jackman and Madawaska.

As the temperatures drop, Maine heats up with winter festivals, where guests can compete in snow sculpture and ice carving events. Camden is home to the U.S. National Toboggan Championships, which feature beer tastings and an outdoor film festival. In February, Moosehead Lake in Greenville kicks off its annual Snow Fest with a dog sled race, a chili and chowder festival, ice racing, and a chocolate festival.

More Sights to See

After exploring the wilderness, be sure to check out one of Maine’s many other attractions.

• The Maine Maritime Museum in Bath offers lighthouse cruises and trolley tours daily in addition to its regular exhibits.
• The Maine Lobster Festival, held every August in Rockland, spans five days and includes a parade, arts and crafts vendors, carnival rides, and all the fresh lobster visitors can handle.
• Trenton is home to the Great Maine Lumberjack Show from June to August each summer. Visitors can watch events like ax throwing, log rolling, and an obstacle pole relay.
• The Kittery Outlets consist of 120 stores and include such retail giants as Adidas, Coach, Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger.

From outdoor adventures to shopping, from festivals to amusement parks, from wilderness to urban excitement, Maine has something for everyone.

When you’re ready to move to Maine, we can help!