Traveling from upstate New York to Acadia

Question

Taking a 3-4 week trip late September into October from Lawrenceburg Indiana to Acadia. We are headed to Upstate NY for a week and then to the Park. We are looking for a route that stays well away from Boston and other major cities.Traveling with our dog. Any recommendations as to the route and attractions?

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a beautiful and scenic trip with plenty of opportunities to enjoy nature, and it’s great that you’re taking your dog along! Avoiding major cities like Boston is totally doable, and there are plenty of charming and scenic routes you can take to get to Acadia National Park. Here’s a suggested route with stops and attractions along the way that will keep you away from the busier cities while still offering plenty to see:

Route Overview: To avoid major cities like Boston, you can plan a route that focuses on scenic highways and rural roads. Here's a suggestion for a scenic and dog-friendly route from Upstate New York to Acadia:

Start in Upstate New York: From upstate New York, head toward the Adirondacks, which are a perfect start for your journey. Routes like NY-28 and US-2 will take you through some of the most beautiful natural areas without having to go through any major cities.
Take the Adirondack Northway (I-87): From the Adirondacks, follow I-87 north toward Plattsburgh. You’ll be bypassing both Albany and major city areas to stay closer to the countryside. You can stop for some scenic views along the way, particularly in the towns near Lake Champlain.
Continue on US-2 or US-202: After reaching the northern end of I-87 near the Canadian border, you can take US-2 or US-202 east into Maine. Both routes are scenic, passing through charming small towns and rural landscapes. US-2, for example, runs across the top of New Hampshire and into Maine, with plenty of opportunities for scenic stops along the way.
Take the Maine Turnpike (I-95) for a portion of the drive: While the Maine Turnpike does go through some busier areas, you can use it strategically to bypass more urban areas, then switch to US-1 or Route 27 as you get closer to Acadia.

Attractions and Stops Along the Way:

Lake Placid, NY: On your way through the Adirondacks, stop at Lake Placid for a picturesque small-town atmosphere. It’s a great place for outdoor activities and a lovely place to stretch your legs, especially if you want to go for a quick hike or explore the town with your dog.
White Mountain National Forest: Just south of Maine, you can pass through the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. There are plenty of trails and scenic views to enjoy here, and it’s a great place for a break, especially if you want to get some fresh air and hike a bit with your dog.
Moosehead Lake, ME: As you make your way into Maine, consider stopping at Moosehead Lake, one of the largest lakes in New England. It’s a fantastic place for a quiet break, and it offers incredible natural beauty, especially in late September and October when the foliage is beginning to change.
Rockland and Camden, ME: These charming coastal towns are great spots to stop for lunch or a break. Camden is particularly known for its beautiful harbor and views of the mountains. Both towns are dog-friendly and offer picturesque scenery, perfect for a relaxing stroll along the water.

Final Leg: Acadia National Park Once you reach Acadia National Park, there are plenty of dog-friendly options within the park and its surrounding areas. While dogs are not allowed on most trails in the park itself, they are allowed on certain carriage roads, so you can enjoy scenic walks together. Additionally, there are some great dog-friendly towns near the park, including Bar Harbor, where you can enjoy the small-town vibe and visit shops and restaurants that welcome pets.

Additional Tips: - Be sure to check out accommodations along the route that are dog-friendly. Many smaller motels, inns, and bed-and-breakfasts along scenic routes like US-2 are happy to welcome pets. - Make sure to have some water and snacks for your dog, as some stretches of the route might have limited stops. - Enjoy the foliage! Late September to October is one of the best times for fall colors in this region, especially in New York’s Adirondacks and in Maine’s coastal areas. It’s a fantastic time for scenic drives and outdoor exploration.

In summary, this route gives you a scenic, less-traveled path to Acadia National Park while avoiding major cities like Boston. You’ll pass through beautiful natural areas like the Adirondacks, the White Mountains, and coastal Maine, and have plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, all while ensuring your dog enjoys the journey too!

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