Science and Nature
Maine's nature and science centers help you discover the state's beauty
7 places to visit
Acadia National Park
Maine Route 3 Bar Harbor, ME 04609 207-288-3338 Nature lovers can explore tide pools and rocky shores as well as natural gardens. - Park Maps
Cadillac Mountain
Off Cadillac Summit Road - Acadia National Park Bar Harbor, ME 04609 The highest point on the Atlantic coast north of Rio de Janeiro, Cadillac Mountain offers incredible views of the ocean, islands, and inland Maine's mountains. Park Loop Road takes visitors winding to the top, 1530 feet from the service.
Blue Hill Falls
Off ME Routes 172 & 175 Blue Hill, ME 04614 These falls are an example of a rare and unusual natural occurrence. Their connection to a surging and retreating tidal basin makes the falls reverse during certain times of the day.
St. Croix River
Brookton to Robbinston, ME 04671 This river, which functions as the geographic border between the Unites States and Canada, is one of dozens in Maine, but it holds the distinction of having the highest tides in the continental US. The river's watershed meanders from Grand Lake at Brookton to Calais and Robbinston near the coastline. One of the popular spots on the river is the St. Croix Island International Historic Site.
Machias Seal Island
Machias, ME The island is about 10 miles off the coast from Cutler, and this island's inhabitants are special indeed. The Atlantic Puffin is native only to the northern Atlantic coast. The birds are large, playful and colorful, often referred to as the "penguins of New England." Charter boat sightseeing and puffin-watching tours are available.
Reversing Falls Park
Reversing Falls Road Pembroke, ME 04666 A remarkable natural phenomenon: The strong tidal surges actually make these waterfalls seem like they're falling backwards at certain times of the day. - Park Map (PDF)
Holbrook Island Sanctuary
172 Indian Bar Road Brooksville, ME 04617 207-326-4012 This is a remote natural area with lots of opportunity to explore and observe a variety of ecosystems, for from stands of hardwood trees to wildflowers to tidal pools. - Sanctuary Brochure (PDF)