Hello! We are in the early stages of planning to Maine and, hopefully, Canada. I've previously found this forum very helpful for "right-sizing" itineraries and helping me focus in on what is feasible.
Here are the details: Travelers include 3 adults, and 3 upper-teens/young adults. We're experienced roadtrippers, especially when it comes to visiting National Parks. Our priority is observing the coastal scenery and interacting with nature. While we won't plan any strenuous hikes, we are all active and eager to get out into the scenery for 3-5 mile hikes. Also, we look forward to ice cream in charming coastal towns. :)
Our dates aren't locked in; we'll probably travel for 12 or 13 days in July 2025.
Questions:
1) Fly into Boston or Portland? While we were originally intrigued by the opportunity to spend a day or two exploring Boston upon arrival, it's clear that flying to Portland creates more breathing room in the itinerary. Maybe I've just answered my own question? Any major up or downsides to using either city as our arrival and departure hub? We'll pick up a rental vehicle here for the rest of the trip.
2) Are 6 nights "enough" for coastal Maine? This would be 2 on the southern coast, 3 around Acadia, and 1 Down East. We don't want to cheat Acadia though. Would it be better to have 4 nights/3 full days there?
3) What is a reasonable itinerary for 4 nights in Canada? Now that I've started researching, I'd like to spend approximately 15 nights there. :) Would it be possible to spend 2 nights in Saint John, then ferry to Nova Scotia for 2 nights ? Or should we focus on one province?
Thank you!