Scenic drive from Greenville to Bar Harbor

Question

My husband and I, mid 70’s, are leaving Greenville on a Saturday morning in mid September and are looking to take a leisurely, scenic drive to our lodging for the week in Bar Harbor. We’ve are frequent visitors to MDI from southern NJ, finally detouring to the Moosehead region for a few days before spending the week in what we consider our “2nd home”.

Google maps takes us on routes 6-15-95 to Bangor, then our usual drive of 395-1a. The alternate is routes 6-16 in la Grange, then 95 to Bangor. Would appreciate any thoughts on which route would be more scenic, with possibly a few stops along the way. Or any other drive that you enjoy.

Answer

For a leisurely, scenic drive from Greenville to Bar Harbor in mid-September, you have a few enjoyable options depending on how much time you want to spend and what kind of scenery you prefer. Since you’re used to visiting Mount Desert Island, you might enjoy taking a route that emphasizes natural beauty over speed.

Option 1: Route 6 → Route 15 → I-95 to Bangor → 395/1A

This is the more straightforward route that balances scenery and efficiency. Route 6 and 15 pass through classic Maine landscapes of lakes, forests, and small towns. Once on I-95 to Bangor, you rejoin your familiar MDI approach.

Stops worth considering along this route:
Baxter State Park Access: If you’d like a short detour before leaving the Moosehead region, the park entrance offers picnic areas and easy walks.
Pittsfield / Newport: Quaint small towns along Route 15 with charming local diners for a coffee or lunch break.
Bangor Waterfront: If you want a stretch break, the waterfront along the Penobscot River is scenic and pleasant for a walk.

Option 2: Route 6 → Route 16 → I-95 to Bangor → 395/1A

This route has slightly more inland forest scenery and fewer lakes, but it is quieter and more relaxed. Route 16 passes through rolling hills, small towns, and wooded landscapes.

Stops worth considering along this route:
Jackman Area: Beautiful lakes and river views; a chance to stretch and enjoy the quiet Maine wilderness.
Medway / Mattawamkeag: Small-town charm with local shops and bakeries; a good lunch or snack stop.

Alternative Scenic Option:

If you have extra time and want a more leisurely, scenic experience, consider:

From Greenville, take Route 6 east toward Dover-Foxcroft, then Route 15 south toward Guilford. Continue on 6/16 south toward Bangor.
This keeps you off the faster I-95 for longer stretches, letting you enjoy lakes, forests, and classic Maine landscapes.
You could stop at Sebec Lake for a peaceful picnic, or Dexter and Dover-Foxcroft for small-town charm and local cafes.

Tips for the Drive:

Plan a few extra hours for stops, photos, and leisurely meals.
Mid-September is a beautiful time for foliage in inland Maine, so scenic overlooks and lake views will be especially rewarding.
Bring a map or GPS backup; some of the smaller roads are less well marked but extremely scenic.

Overall, for a balance of scenery and manageable drive time, the Route 6 → 15 → I-95 route with a few detours to small towns and lakes is recommended. If you prefer a quieter, more forested drive with fewer towns, take Route 16 for part of the journey. Either way, you’ll enjoy quintessential Maine landscapes on your way to Bar Harbor.

Scenic drive from Greenville to Bar Harbor

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