March Maine road trip

Question

hi! me and my partner want to go on a road trip for my spring break, march 15-24 around the east coast. I got to school in upstate new york so we will be leaving from there. My initial thought was to drive up the coast of maine and car camp, and then get an airbnb near acadia national park and explore that for a few days, but through more research I have heard that march is notoriously the worst month to visit maine. Would it be worth it to still try and do the trip or should we look into alternatives? We were down to explore more upstate or vermont, but expect to run into similar cold or snowy conditions which would not be ideal for car camping. we both like nature and hiking and want to have adventures and explore wherever we go. also not opposed to going south to somewhere like north carolina, or florida. any suggestions would be much appreciated. :)

Answer

Hi! It sounds like a wonderful trip you're planning, but I completely understand your concern about the weather in March. Maine, especially in March, can indeed be tricky. The weather is often still quite cold and unpredictable, with lingering snowstorms and freezing temperatures. This might not be ideal for car camping, particularly if you're not used to winter conditions. That said, it can still be an incredible experience if you're prepared, but there are also some good alternatives if you'd prefer to avoid the cold. Let's break it down:

### March in Maine: Considerations

March in Maine can be beautiful but it also comes with challenges, especially in terms of outdoor activities like hiking and camping:

Cold temperatures: Daytime highs may be in the 30s or 40s°F (1-9°C), and nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, especially in more northern or elevated areas like Acadia National Park.
Snow and Ice: You could encounter snow or ice on hiking trails, which may make certain trails unsafe or inaccessible. Many campsites and outdoor areas are closed for the winter season.
Limited Amenities: Some Airbnb or lodging options near Acadia may still be closed for the winter season, and outdoor activities may be more limited in terms of availability (e.g., guided tours, boat rides, or some parks).

That said, if you still want to go for it, here are some things to consider:

Car Camping: If you plan to car camp, make sure you’re equipped for cold temperatures, including proper sleeping bags for sub-freezing weather, layered clothing, and a well-insulated tent. Be aware that some campsites may not be open in March, but you can look for campgrounds that are open year-round, like those in Acadia or along the coast.
Day Hikes: If you’re prepared for winter conditions, you can still enjoy shorter day hikes, but you may need to be more cautious about icy trails and cold winds. Acadia offers some winter-friendly trails that can be hiked year-round.
Acadia National Park: Many of the park’s trails may be snow-covered or icy, but there are still some beautiful places to explore, including the park loop road, Jordan Pond, and Cadillac Mountain (which offers some spectacular views!). However, be prepared for limited services, as some facilities may be closed in March.

### Alternatives to Maine in March

If you’re hesitant about the cold and snowy conditions in Maine, you might want to consider some warmer, more reliable destinations. Here are a few suggestions:

Upstate New York or Vermont: Both of these destinations still have the potential for cold weather in March, but they also offer charming small towns, beautiful nature, and outdoor adventures, especially for those who love winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing. The Adirondacks in upstate New York, for example, offer great winter hiking and picturesque lakes.
North Carolina (Great Smoky Mountains): A bit further south, North Carolina offers a wonderful combination of nature, hiking, and charming towns. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park has plenty of hiking trails and gorgeous mountain scenery, and March will likely offer milder temperatures compared to Maine or Vermont. You can explore Asheville, which is known for its great food scene and outdoor activities.
Florida (Everglades & Beaches): If you're looking for a warm escape, Florida is an excellent option. The Everglades National Park offers unique wildlife and hiking opportunities. For a beach retreat, consider the Gulf Coast or the Florida Keys for beautiful beaches, boating, and seafood. You could also check out Miami or the charming towns of the Florida Panhandle for a mix of city and coastal life.

### Final Thoughts

It really depends on your preferences! If you both love cold-weather hiking and winter camping, Maine can still offer a unique and quiet experience—though you'll need to be well-prepared for winter conditions. But if you'd rather avoid the cold, heading south to places like North Carolina or Florida might give you more favorable conditions for hiking and exploring without worrying about snowstorms.

Wherever you choose to go, March offers plenty of opportunities for adventure, but it’s best to consider your comfort level with winter weather before making a final decision. Have fun on your road trip!