10 Important reminders to know about traveling in rural Maine.
The 2024 Solar Eclipse is expected to draw a large number of visitors traveling to Western and Northern Maine in April, a month that is usually not a peak season for tourism in the area. However, many of the rural towns have made arrangements to welcome the visitors, so it is important to also prepare the tourists for the rural Maine experience.
Traveling to Maine in April is quite different from the idyllic summertime experience of warm days, plentiful food options, and fully staffed businesses.
We composed a list of 10 reminders to keep in mind for April travel to Maine
1. Maine weather can be unpredictable, especially in April.
April 8th weather can be unpredictable in rural Maine. It could be sunny with a temperature of 60 degrees, or it could be snowing at 20 degrees. Prepare for any possible weather activity. The roads in rural Maine are narrow, and winding, and have elevation changes, so your vehicle and its tires must be in excellent condition.
With the possibility of unfavorable weather, pack accordingly. Boots are a must this time of year, as well as layers and protection from precipitation. There are not a lot of options for clothing stores in Northern and Western Maine, so prepare for any situation.
2. April is “mud season” in Maine.
Maine has experienced a significant amount of rainfall this winter. As a result, the roads and their shoulders have become very soft and vulnerable. If you need to stop your vehicle while traveling, find a safe parking area instead of pulling over onto the shoulder. This is because pulling off onto the shoulder could lead to getting stuck. Even with four-wheel drive, vehicles may sink, resulting in spinning and further damaging our already unstable roads.
3. Not all roads are for public use.
Landowners in Maine are known for being generous when it comes to allowing access to their properties. However, it is still essential to respect their ownership and ask for permission before traveling on a private road if in doubt. Obey “No Trespassing” signs and refrain from accessing gated or blocked roads, even if on foot. Landowners invest a lot of time and money in maintaining their properties, and it is crucial to respect their wishes.
4. Cellular Service may be limited.
If you are traveling to rural Maine, keep in mind that you might not always have a reliable internet or cellular connection. The region is characterized by vast mountains and valleys, tall trees, and limited resources, which make it challenging to maintain a constant connection. So if having a reliable connection is crucial for you, reconsider traveling to rural Maine and opt for one of the more populated towns or cities instead.
5. Not every business is “fully staffed”.
April is not a busy season in Maine, so some businesses may be operating with less than a full staff. While many of these businesses would not have opened until May, they are welcoming visitors early for eclipse viewing. Be patient and kind during your visit.
6. Certain products or consumables may be limited.
If you are someone who has a specific preference for coffee or bottled water brands, it can be difficult to find exactly what you are looking for. This can be especially true when you’re in rural Maine, where convenience stores and small restaurants are the norm. Be open-minded and try out locally-made brands. You might be pleasantly surprised to find that these options are often better than larger commercial brands.
7. Always have some cash on hand.
When traveling in Maine, always have some cash as a form of payment. It will be necessary if any connectivity issues arise at a business, affecting credit card processing. Cash is also the preferred method of payment for many small businesses, and it is customary to tip cash to our local servers and bartenders.
8. Be aware of different means of transportation on Maine roads.
Northern Maine is home to many Amish communities. These citizens will travel the roads by carriages and horses. Respect their right to do so, and pass by them with caution. If you have a chance to visit one of these communities, you will find some amazing homemade products and delicious baked goods. (This again, is where cash will come in handy.)
9. School, and everyday work life, are in session.
Monday, April 8th is a typical day for the residents of Maine. Most people are not on vacation or visiting; they are just going about their daily lives. School buses will be operating, and it is crucial to be aware of Maine’s strict law prohibiting passing a bus with its lights flashing. Be considerate of our fellow Maine citizens who are simply trying to make it through another day.
10. LEAVE NO TRACE
When traveling to Maine, or anywhere in the world, leave the area as you found it, if not better. Carry in = Carry out. That is the Maine Way.
Enjoy your travel days in Maine, we welcome you!
This 2024 eclipse will bring a much-needed boost to the Maine economy after a slow, rainy winter dampened the snowmobiling and ice fishing seasons.
Whether it’s your first visit, or you are a Maine native traveling for the experience, enjoy the time, we won’t have another eclipse experience like this for many more years!
