There is perhaps nothing more awe-inspiring than seeing Aroostook County's picturesque lakes and streams alongside its panoramic rolling mountains in all of their gold and magenta glory of autumn. In addition, here in Aroostook, one never knows what hidden treasures will be spied during a quest for the most beautiful foliage – a fleeting glimpse of a white-tailed deer or a vintage automobile resting amongst the flora.

Aroostook County is largely covered by the North Maine Woods, a vast forested region of over 3.5 million acres that spans parts of western Aroostook and other counties.  One of the major reasons fall foliage is so spectacular here is because we have more than 60 species of native trees.  The rich mix of hardwood trees such as sugar maples, birches, beech trees and conifers allow for a wide array of colors ranging from bright reds and oranges, brilliant yellows, deep burgundies and the dark evergreens.  With warm, sunny days and the cool crisp nights of fall, the weather conditions enhance the breakdown of chlorophyll, which allows pigments to emerge more vividly. That’s why the reds, oranges, and purples pop so brightly.
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Aroostook boasts several scenic routes, including: the St. John Valley/Fish River National Scenic Byway, the Million Dollar Scenic Byway, and the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Scenic Byway.  These roads deliver sweeping views of rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and endless fall foliage. Hiking hot spots such as Quaggy Jo Mountain, Haystack Mountain, Hedgehog Mountain, and trails in Aroostook State Park bring visitors close to the treetops and panoramic views.
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By late September to early October, Aroostook typically hits peak color (usually by the first week of October). The Maine Department of Agriculture and the Maine Fall Foliage Report consistently mark this region as the first in the state to reach peak leaf change.
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Our northern location and higher elevation mean Aroostook gets cooler sooner than southern parts of Maine. This leads to earlier color changes, a longer viewing season, and more intense coloration.  Our rural nature and relatively undeveloped acreage (with statistically only 11 people per square mile), unspoiled natural landscapes, vast forests, rolling hills and farmland, clean air, minimal light pollution make for a breathtaking combination and the best fall foliage viewing in the State.  
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For the most vibrant colors and best photography lighting, plan your foliage drives or hikes in the early morning or late afternoon when the sunlight casts a golden glow over the treetops. Don’t forget to bring layers — temperatures can change quickly here in northern Maine! In addition, many local farms and markets in communities such as Presque Isle and Fort Kent offer seasonal produce, cider, and fall treats — the perfect complement to a scenic drive. Visitors might even catch a fall fair or harvest festival along the way.
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Whether you're a photographer, nature lover, or someone just looking to unplug, fall in Aroostook County offers a peaceful retreat into nature’s most vivid season. Pack your camera, grab a map, and experience why so many say it’s a hidden gem worth discovering!

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My Favorite Places For Leaf Peeping

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