Quoddy Head State Park — Attraction in Lubec

I lost my mind at Quoddy Head State Park.

Let me explain.

The morning started off like any other on this road trip: driving safely to our destination, myself, my fiancée, and our dog all in tow. Upon arrival we promptly lit up a devil's cigarette, noting the time at 10:45. Perfect way to start our day.

Parking was easily accessible and there seemed to be plenty of spots even with how popular the seaside park seemed to be. Another hint at splendor. There is an honesty policy when it comes to paying the entrance fee: a small bin by the information board. It asks for a nominal fee that I cannot remember but would willingly pay at any park that we enjoyed like this one.

Our trek began as we headed to the famous lighthouse itself. I went inside first, my fiancée stayed out with our canine companion. I was met with friendly faces and helpful information on which trail I would take. Cannot ask for more.

Furthering along our day, we headed to the rocky coast. There were steps down to the stony shore, but they are steep and I'm sure slippery in the right conditions. We wore hiking boots which was important for the wet and wild weather that awaited us. The waves crashing around us reminded us of the fragility of life. It was awe inspiring.

Our main goal after the shoreline was to complete The Coastal trail to Green Point. And we do not regret that. The smell of the pines, well I wish I could bottle that up and take it home to my native PA. We stopped at every beautiful outcropping to see the amazing stone drop offs and trickling waterfalls. Our dog loved the attention from the other friendly guests, but even with the occasional passerby we did not feel crowded. It was an amazing escape from the rat races of city living. The pathways that traipsed us through forest and cliffs were thoughtfully and carefully maintained by the grounds staff so one could get lost. The details of these paths, such as raw tree slabs cut into staircases or walking beams to help guests avoid mud were practical and also aesthetically pleasing. We didn't hike for a long time by the time we got to Green Point, but decided to stop for lunch as it was around... 12:15? How? We hiked less than a mile? Had the beauty of the land really taken us aback so much? We were definitely mesmerized, and the funky lettuce was coursing through our blood streams. Had we entered the Twilight Zone?

This is when I lost my mind.

You see, while hiking our phones lost service to our American Verizon and jumped ship over to a Canadian telephone tower. Which also brought us into Atlantic Standard time, one hour ahead. This made us believe we were completely hypnotized by the land. And don't get us wrong, this is no complaint! I would happily go back and experience it all again. It will stand out in my mind as one of the best hikes we've been on due to the hard-work of the Park officials, volunteers, and the beauty of the landscape. So just be aware of that possibility when going, might confuse some.

There were also bathrooms but we did not use them.

10/10...

When I first went Downeast back in 2013 I felt like I had finally come home. This is such a stunning and remote part of the coast of Maine.

You should absolutely go to Quaddy Head. If you are able to do so, do the long nature walk that starts by the lighthouse. You’ll pass along 100 foot cliffs, grassy areas that feel like the coast of Ireland and you’ll end up at a stunning black sand beach.

There’s also a bog that has all the various kinds of carnivorous plants that you’ll find in the Northeast.

Before you get to the lighthouse you’ll pass through some title flats, the tide here runs way out and if you happen to find yourself here at low tide there’s access to the beaches, you can drive pretty far out in the title flats on the Gravley rock but definitely keep an eye on the tides and I hope your vehicle has some decent tires and is reliable. Last time I was there I helped pull a jeep out of the mud that had...

Quoddy lighthouse was an absolute must on our most recent adventure. My husband's great grandmother, Ruth Allen, was born in this lighthouse and came from a lineage of lighthouse keepers. The staff of the museum and gift shop were extremely welcoming and seemed to great enjoy learning about my husband's lineage and the stories of his family and past visits to the lighthouse. It is a stunning spot and I highly suggest catching sunrise while there. The museum is nice and offers a lot of local history and there's some gorgeous paths to walk in the park. Including an extremely interesting trail that leads you to some marshlands and some stairs that take you down to the rocky beaches. Definitely worth a visit and we will absolutely...