Introduction

The state of Maine, also known as Vacationland, has long been a place where people head to for adventure and natural beauty. Each year millions of visitors come to explore the rocky coastline, enjoy the sandy beaches, visit the iconic lighthouses, hike the seemingly endless mountains, and enjoy the snow-covered landscape. Throughout the year, visitors have plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and explore. During the summer, tourists flock to the sandy beaches in the southern part of the state, explore the many lighthouses "Downeast" and throughout the coast, and head in-land to enjoy the countless lakes and neverending trails. The fall time brings cooler temperatures and leaf-peekers who traverse the many miles of scenic byways in western Maine as the forests become explode with colors. During winter, the frozen and snow-covered landscape become a winter playground with numerous cross-country and downhill skiing spots, countless snowshoeing opportunities, and frozen lakes busy with ice-fishing and snowmobiling. Spring (also known as "mud season") brings numerous in-land paddling and white water rafting opportunities as the rivers grow after the winter melt. The numerous trails start to come alive as the snow and ice slowly melt away, and the famous black-flies arrive. If you love exploring the outdoors, Maine offers something for everyone - whether you're just visiting (or "from away" as the locals will refer to you as), or live here year-round.