guide – Maine Terrain https://www.maineterrain.com Secret Destinations in and around Acadia National Park Sun, 07 Apr 2024 23:26:32 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.0.8 Maine Offbeat Travel Guide Books 2024 https://www.maineterrain.com/maine-travel-guide-books/ https://www.maineterrain.com/maine-travel-guide-books/#respond Wed, 11 May 2022 19:04:15 +0000 https://www.maineterrain.com/?p=3705

Maine Travel Guide Books 2022

May 11, 2022

Maine Terrain Acadia National Park
SO2

Written by Stephen Ondich

Maine travel guide books help you plan your Maine visit in 2022.  Whether traveling to Acadia, Bar Harbor, Bangor or Baxter State Park, a travel guide book can help.

Below we share reader feedback on new or recent updated guides to the Pine Tree State!  I’m including links where you can buy the books.

However,  I am not an affiliate and receive no compensation from any of these Maine travel books – just trying to do  Maine visitors a solid! Safe Travels! 

Maine Guide#1: Moon Maine 

Maine Travel Guide Book

Moon Maine is a 2020 Maine travel guide book written by Hilary Nangle.  This book focuses on multi-day coastal and inland excursions.  Nangle is a native Mainer who loves to ski, blog and is a connoisseur of farmstead cheese. Thus, she gives a uniquely local take on her destinations.   

At 664 pages,  Moon Maine covers a lot of ground. Of course, there is a lot of ground to write about in this beautiful New England state. 

Maine Guide #2: Lonely Planet Maine & Acadia National Park

Lonely Planet’s guide to Maine & Acadia is a comprehensive colorful text co-written by Regis St Louis & Adam Karlin.

It is map-heavy, which I find helpful.

Published in 2019, just prior to the pandemic, the sites and suggestions are still very relevant to 2021.  The format is easy to digest and at 240 pages, there is not a lot of fluff. That is a good thing. After all,  you want to get out an explore, right?

This Maine travel guide gets straight to the point – where to go and what to skip. This is another good addition to the Lonely Planet family of travel guides.

Maine Guide #3: Acadia: The Complete Guide: Acadia National Park & Mount Desert Island (Color Travel Guide)

Acadia National Park is the focus of many New England-area travel guides. However, this 2018 publication by James Kaiser brilliantly captures the most beautiful destination in Maine.

Acadia the Complete Guide  is a stunning visually appealing Maine travel guide book focusing on the highlights, niche locations and history surrounding Mount Desert Island.  Kaiser also delves into the geology and ecology of the island. 

Additionally, you’ll find things like local drinks, food suggestions and rainy-day excursions. Of course, no one thinks of rain while planning their Acadia adventure. Yet, Bar Harbor receives almost 57 inches of rain a year – it has to happen during someone’s vacation!

Maine Guide #4: Explorer’s Guide Maine 

Maine Travel Guide Book

Explorer’s Guide Maine covers traveler destinations throughout the entire Pine Tree State.  At almost 600 pages, this guide gives ample coverage to all of Maine’s regions. Mid-coast, Down East,  South Coast, Maine Woods… you’ll find good information inside.

Co-authors Nancy English and Christina Tree both have longstanding ties to New England which shows in their research and recommendations.  This book contains an extensive amount of information. There’s a lot to digest here. Thus,  read it while you’re in the planning stages of your trip to get the most out of this text.

Maine Guide #5: Best Easy Day Hikes Acadia National Park

Maine Travel Guide to Acadia National Park Hikes

Best Easy Day Hikes: Acadia National Park by Delores Kong and Dan Ring is a 136 page guide book with clear concise directions for day hikes on Mount Desert Island.   

The issue facing first time Acadia visitors is that the park offers many once-in-a-lifetime hiking opportunities. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with the options, especially when you have limited park time.  Additionally, it’s also easy to try hikes that may be a little too ambitious.  This Maine travel guide book breaks down Acadia’s hiking options so you can plan your day trips intelligently. 

Pro tip… Acadia is all about the planning. The National Park spans more than 47,000 acres.  Additionally,  Park Loop Road can seize up with Los Angeles-rush hour-style gridlock during the busy summer months.  If you go there and wing it, you’ll waste a lot of time and miss quite a bit.

]]>
https://www.maineterrain.com/maine-travel-guide-books/feed/ 0
Finding Local Contractors in Maine: 6 CRITICAL Things To Know 2024 https://www.maineterrain.com/maine-contractors-6-critical-things/ https://www.maineterrain.com/maine-contractors-6-critical-things/#respond Wed, 11 May 2022 13:33:53 +0000 https://www.maineterrain.com/?p=3842

Find local Contractors in Maine: 6 Critical Tips 2022

May 12, 2022

Maine Terrain Acadia National Park
SO2

Written by Stephen Ondich

 
 
  1. Ask Friends, Relatives and Co-Workers for References. …
  2. Interview at Least 5 Contractors. …
  3. Be Realistic About Availability. …
  4. Ask What Work Will Be Done by Subcontractors. …
  5. Choose the Right Contractor for the Right Project. …
  6. Check Licenses, Complaints and Litigation History. …
  7. Check References. …
  8. Sign a Detailed Contract.

source: US News

Finding local contractors in Maine for construction, renovations & home improvements is difficult. The list above is from US News & World Reports. The list is helpful for many areas of the United States. However, Maine is a bit different.

Maine’s contract laws, demographics, geography and culture present unique regional challenges for finding good help with construction projects. 

There are 6 things you must know before hiring Maine contractors to do residential construction work.

These tips are mostly for people from away (not a local Maine resident). Realistically, no locals are Googling “How to do construction in Maine.” Rather, it’s more likely a person from away looking to make their dream house in the beautiful state of Maine.  It’s a goal shared by many.

In many parts of the US, if you can afford the land and construction costs, you’re fine. However, Maine is a little different. 

In 2019, we undertook the reconstruction of our home in Milbridge, Maine.  Over the next 18 months, we learned a lot about contracting and  home construction in Maine. Hopefully, these 6 tips will help you, too.

Subscribe to Our YouTube channel NOW !

Maine House

Maine Contractors: 6 Critical Things to Know!

1. Online Construction Cost Calculators are Mostly Useless

Typically, online cost calculators create a rough estimate of construction costs based on local contractor rates and material costs. However, they don’t take into account availability of labor to actually do the work. Thus, what good are they, really?

Maine has a small population spread out over a very large area. Therefore, local contractor in Maine  statistics are misleading and not necessarily relevant to Maine’s diverse regions.  90% of the officially tracked construction projects may be in the Bar Harbor/Portland areas. Whereas, construction in Eastport and Aroostook may take place unrecorded to the trade based on a handshake between friends.  

Basically, it’s a fair market price based on the faulty assumption that contractors are available to do the work. Additionally, 2022’s spiraling inflation in both labor and materials may not be reflected in the calculator.  

Accordingly, use these tools cautiously for early-stage planning purposes. only.

2. Contractors in Maine are Extremely Scarce

Maine has a severe shortage of home building local contractors.

I know…good help is hard to find everywhere. However, Maine has very few local contractors to choose from.  

Also, please note, I’m not referring to only good contractors in Maine. I am including home builders and home improvement specialists that you’d never want to hire in the pool of options.

During their new home construction, our neighbors gave up on their contractors and did most their construction work themselves.  

This dovetails into secret #3.

3. Maine Has No Contractors Licence Board – Buyer Beware!

While there are a great many competent, ethical home contractors in Maine, it is up to you, the consumer, to find one. Home contractors are not licensed …

source: Office of the Maine Attorney General

Unlike the state you’re probably from, Maine does not require home builders to be licensed. Accordingly, anyone who wants to build a house  close by is a local contractor and homebuilder.

There is no oversight board or minimum standard of qualifications.   Many people from away are surprised to learn this.

Whether you think this is horrible policy or a libertarian’s free market dream, it’s important to realize that this is the reality in Maine.

In my experience, the Maine system works pretty well.

If you have a problem with a contractor, it’s treated as any other business transaction.  Consumers vet potential trades people through recommendations. 

Word travels quickly in small towns. Most of Maine consists of small communities. Accordingly, bad reputations follow people around and keep lousy contractors from operating unscathed. 

However, many systems work well in Maine that wouldn’t work in other places.  For example, in Maine, people leave canoes on their lawn all summer. Whereas in California, a decorative flag was stolen from a pole attached to our house. 

 

4. Referrals are Still the Best Way to Find Contractors in Maine

If you’re used to using Yelp, Angie’s List, etc. to find local contractors in Maine you may be disappoint.

Although Maine contractors are starting to warm up to online services, they’ve been slow to do so.  Additionally, low participation on these sites by both contractors & consumers means the data may be statistically insignificant. 

For example, a contractor with no experience may appear at the top of the Yelp results by virtue of one good review posted by a family member. Whereas, the best contractor in the area may not even be in the directory!  

Why Don’t Maine Contractors Care About Yelp/Angie’s List/ Etc?

There are several reasons why online construction directories have low participation rates in Maine.

  1. Older population. 21.2% of Maine’s population is over 65 years of age .  That includes both customers and service providers. Younger people are the first embrace new technologies.  Sure, maybe your Grandpa loves writing scathing Yelp reviews now but  how long did that take?
  2. Additional Work Not Needed. If you have 12-18 months of work booked, how much time do you spend promoting yourself for more work? If you’re a contractor in Maine…not much. Many Maine contractors are in this situation and aren’t actively looking for new clients.
  3. Reliance on Local. Often, local contractors in Maine prefer dealing with someone they know either directly or indirectly, over someone new. This way, the client is unlikely to stiff them and disappear. Also, the contractor is dealing with a real person onsite rather than a voice on the end of a cell-phone. Additionally, the person is easy to find in the event of a financial dispute. The person searching Yelp is likely not local. She’s the client in New York who needs a carpenter in Downeast Maine.  However,  local jobs for local clients occur mostly through work of mouth.  

5. Maine Geography is Significant for Contractors

Maine is low density. It has lots of land and its people are spread out thinly per square mile.

A common sentiment in Maine is, you can’t get there from here. That means  places look a lot closer than they are.

When looking at a map of Maine, you tend to judge distance as the crow flies, rather than reality.  Unless you’re travelling by chopper, you’re going to need to stick to the roads.  Construction companies in Maine know this. People from away often gloss over this fact. 

Maine roads can be slow, winding and often not  very direct. Sure, you can make great time on I-95 but you’re still using side-streets and rural roads once you exit. 

Basically, don’t assume that a contractor will consider your project just because it looks pretty close on a map.  Soaring 2022 gas prices have Maine drivers on edge.  Contractors are no different.  

 

  

6. The Maine Mindset

Maine contractors think differently than those from other areas of the US. This is perhaps the most puzzling challenge for people from away looking for local help.

It’s not necessarily better or worse, just different. Keep in mind, I, too, am from away (Southern California). Here are my observations:

  1. Money Doesn’t Talk. Most people from out of state looking to build in Maine have  significant equity. Generally speaking, full time Maine residents are working class, not overly wealthy and not enamored of wealth building. They are used to seeing people with lots of money. If they don’t blink when the Rockefellers come to town, don’t expect them to jump at attention for your $250,000 project. In fact, assuming money is a sufficient incentive may be a turn off.
  2. Workload Capacity. Often, those in Maine’s construction trade stop accepting work once their season schedule is full. Accordingly, once they’re booked, they have little interest in trying to squeeze in another job. Whereas, faced with the same dilemma, California, contractors scramble to hire, subcontract, or outright lie in order to lock in one more project. 
  3. Project Estimates. Maine builders often operate under a very fixed cost structure. Whereas, in other parts of the country, supply & demand makes pricing more dynamic.  Mainer’s like to charge a fair price. They don’t want a reputation for gauging. While admirable, this trait can be frustrating for consumers unaccustomed to it. For example, you may receive fair estimate for a kitchen remodel. After calling the contractor to proceed, he tells you he can’t get to it for at least 2 years. You’re left wondering: 1) Why do the estimate at all? 2) Maybe he should charge more? Basically, he is mentally locked into a dated price structure which keeps him very busy but leaves money on the table. Many Mainers are fine with that. Outside projects come & go with the ebb and flow of the US economy. Their local reputation is significantly more important to their long term commercial viability.   

  

7. Decide Where to Watch the Sunrise

Pick your preferred sunrise viewing location ahead of time. Most people do one of two things. 

  1. Watch from the Summit Marker. Understandably, most people watch close to the Summit Marker.  It is an iconic location. However, it is also crowded. To get there, follow the gravel path along side the restrooms. The marker is on the right hand side at the end of the path. Look for the highest ledge.
  2. Cadillac Summit Loop Trail. If you’re looking for solitude at sunrise, head down the trail just a bit. You don’t have to go very far. Again, most hikers congregate around the Summit Marker like moths on a light.

Why Watch the Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain?

Watching the sunrise anywhere within Acadia National Park is exciting. However, Cadillac Mountain is the optimal location for several reasons.

  •  Cadillac Mountain is the highest viewing location along the Northern Atlantic Coast. If you go between October and March you get bragging rights for seeing first daylight in the United States.
  • Cadillac Mountain is one of the most popular attractions in Acadia National Park. It is busy almost all of the time. Yet, you know you’re going to go. Therefore, why not see it at its most spectacular? 
  • It is a communal experience, kind of like going to church or a Grateful Dead show. Cadillac Mountain is where the faithful gather to witness first light.
]]>
https://www.maineterrain.com/maine-contractors-6-critical-things/feed/ 0
Milbridge, Maine: A Helpful Guide 2022 https://www.maineterrain.com/milbridge-maine-guide/ https://www.maineterrain.com/milbridge-maine-guide/#comments Fri, 06 May 2022 19:40:12 +0000 https://www.maineterrain.com/?p=1429

Milbridge, Maine:
A Helpful guide for 2019

April 3, 2019

SO2

Written by Stephen Ondich

The town of Milbridge, Maine is the first town to be featured in our series, Down East Destinations. Below is a comprehensive helpful guide to the Milbridge. We cover community history, things to do, economy, trends and more.  

Subscribe to Our YouTube channel NOW !

Milbridge, Maine

Location

Milbridge, Maine is 43.1 miles from Acadia National Park.

Thus, Milbridge, Maine is Acadia Adjacent.↵
 
It is located on the coast of Maine, where the Narraguagus Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean.

Milbridge is located south of Cherryfield, east of Steuben and West of Harrington. Narraguagus Bay comprises its southern border.

Areas of Milbridge

Downtown Milbridge is pedestrian friendly. Thus, many of Milbridge’s shops and restaurants are here. Roughly speaking, the epicenter of downtown is where US-1 (Main Street) intersects with US-1A (Kennedy Highway). 

The Harbor Area starts at the mouth of the Narraguagus River and continues to the bay, leading out to the Atlantic Ocean. Also, in the harbor area there are restaurants, fresh local seafood offerings, and boat tours. Additionally the Milbridge historical Society Museum is located in the harbor area.

Rural Areas comprise a majority of Milbridge’s land area. Accordingly, these designated rural areas have limitations on development. 

Conservation Areas are designated as places of vital importance to Milbridge’s natural resources. Very limited development is allowed. Also, there is a minimum lots size of 10+ acres. Additionally, these designations are primarily in coastal or island areas of Milbridge.

 

Beals Pier Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
Beals Pier by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

Milbridge History 

Town of Milbridge was founded in 1765. It was created from the town of Harrington in Plantation Number Five.

According to Maineanencylopedia.com, the original spelling was “Millbridge.” Interestingly, I recently confirmed this when I searched Maine: A History, Volume 4 online for “Milbridge.” When my search yielded no hits, I realized that the text used the earlier “Millbridge” spelling.

Harrington Connection

Unfortunately many of Milbridge’s early historical records were stored in Harrington when a fire swept through town. I can find no mention online of when that fire took place. However, those early Milbridge town records were lost.

Gallison Library in Harrington, Maine
I stopped into the Harrington’s Gallison Library to find early Milbridge records. Photo by maineterrain.com

 

In July of 2019, I stopped into the Gallison Memorial Library in Harrington to see what remained of early Milbridge town records. Unfortunately, most of the early records inside were genealogical and provided by individual families. However, sifting through the folders I found an interesting document. It showed that in 1960, Mrs. Mildred Coffin donated a large map of early Washington County, Maine to the library.

Harrington Historical Document
This document revealed a large Washington County map was in the library somewhere.

I looked up from my table and saw the map!

Early Map of Washington County Maine with a closeup of Narraguagus Bay
Here is a closeup of the Narraguagus area of the wall map donated by Mildred Coffin in 1960. Photo by maineterrain.com

 

Significantly, the Coffin family was one of the early settlers of Harrington, Maine. V.L. Coffin and Sons,, was the primary store in town selling dry goods for many decades.

1848 Separation from Harrington

Almost 90 years later on July 14, 1848, it split off from the easterly neighboring town of Harrington. Subsequently, Milbridge expanded in 1876 and 1907, taking over land from its neighbor on the west, Steuben.

In the 19th century Milbridge served as a receiving point for lumber sawn in Cherryfield. An entire industrial complex was set up on the Narraguagus River involving multiple shipyards and businesses that served the boat building trade. Then, as now, Milbridge hosted fishing and seafood processing businesses including a lobster canning factory.

Milbridge’s population stands at roughly 1300 residents. This has been a relatively stable count for the past three decades.

 

Early Native American Presence in Milbridge

Pre-colonist records of Native Americans in the area now known as Milbridge are sparse. In part, this is due to the fluidity of tribes over time. Once Europeans arrived in the area the 1500’s Native Americans bore the brunt of newly introduced illnesses. As a result, surviving Native American assimilated into new groups regularly.

Here is a list of tribes with ties to Milbridge:

Red Paint People 

The Red Paint People are the oldest known inhabitants of the Milbridge area. Very little is known about  the Red Paint People.  

They lived in coastal areas of Maine and New England approximately 2000-6000 years ago. Excavation of their burial sites revealed stone tools and artifacts covered in iron oxide, ie red paint.

Abenaki – Wawinkak

The Abenaki settled in villages close to rivers and/or flood plains. 

Passamaquoddy

Passamaquoddy Native Americans were seasonal settlers. In summer, they stayed in coastal areas. For the winter months, they migrated inland.

Prior to European contact, the Passamaquoddy history was passed down verbally without written records.

 

1675-1760 Series of  Six Indian Wars

Until 1675, relations between English settlers and Native Americans were mostly amicable. However, the following 85 years brought a series of conflicts known as the Indian Wars.

These battles pitted Native Americans and their French allies against English colonists.

 

Post Native American settlement by Colonists

The earliest known European settlers in the Narraguagus area were Jebez Dorman, John Densmores and Ichabod Willey. They established themselves in the Narraguagus region just Prior to the revolutionary war in the mid 1750s.

At this time, the cultural center of what is was then part of Harrington (now Milbridge) was on the Narraguagus Bay. Everything was developed with the goal of harvesting lumber and getting it to market or into maritime production. Since no roads were in existence, everything centered around the waterways.

An early population boom occurred as a direct result of the colonists victory over the British in the revolutionary war. Soldiers were partially paid in Maine land grants.

As the population grew, Milbridge was used as a stop for a steamboat service that passed between Milbridge, Machias and Portland several times a week. The ship-based access to Milbridge continued throughout most of the 19th century.

Roads improved and cars came into favor in the early part of the 20th century. Accordingly, downtown Milbridge displaced the Wyman industrial district as the town’s focal point at that time..

 

Historic Sites in Milbridge

Petit Manan Light Station 

The Petit Manan Light Station is operational. The island it occupies also hosts a puffin colony!  It is not open to the public. However, public boat tours are available.  As a matter of fact, Milbridge’s own Robertson Sea Tours offers Fall boat tours of three area lighthouses:

  1. Petit Manan Lighthouse
  2. Narraguagus Lighthouse
  3. Nash Island Light Station

 

 

Narraguagus Light Station House maineterrain.com
Narraguagus Light Station courtesy of Maine An Encyclopedia

Narraguagus Light Station

The Narraguagus Light Station was taken out of operation in 1934. Now privately owned, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places on November 20, 1987. 

 

Everett Wallace House maineterrain.com
The Everett Wallace House courtesy of Maine An Encyclopedia

Everett Wallace House

The 1937 Everett Wallace House is located at the intersection of US-1 and Wyman Road. 

It is notable for being a modern example of Queen Anne architecture. Additionally, the home was made as a reproduction of Wallace’s previous 1800’s era Queen Anne home which was lost in a fire. 

 
Milbridge Blueberry harvest Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
Blueberry Barrens by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

Economy of Milbridge

The natural resources surrounding Milbridge have shaped the towns activity since it’s inception. Not surprisingly, shipbuilding, lumber production, agriculture and fishing comprise much of this activity. More recently, tourism has played a role, as well.

Currently, blueberry production, commercial fishing, timber harvesting and wreath production drive the Milbridge economy.

Smaller farms, including organic, are emerging as a growth industry.

 

Agriculture

The largest agricultural crop in Milbridge is the blueberry. The biggest blueberry operation in town is the Wyman Company. 

 

Jasper Wyman Milbridge maineterrain.com
Jasper Wyman & Son courtesy of Maine An Encyclopedia

 

The Wyman Company

In the late 19th century, despite the booming lumber trade, one of the most important companies then as now, was the Wyman company.

Wymans of Maine was founded by Jasper Wyman in 1874 and is still family owned today. In addition to his Milbridge business interests, Jasper Wyman (1852-1923) served two terms as a state senator for Maine in 1906 and 1908. 

Wyman’s is to Milbridge what Burt’s Bees is to Dover-Foxcroft, with one important exception. Wyman’s is still operating out of its home town

Originally primarily a seafood canning company, Jasper Wyman started the company where he grew up in Milbridge, Maine. By the turn of the century, the focus of the company had shifted from seafood to wild blueberries.

Subsequent generations of the Wyman family continue to acquire land and blueberry barons over the years.

The company owns more than 10,000 acres of blueberry barons in addition to contracting out with other growers in Maine and Canada.

Additionally, Wyman’s conducts an ongoing campaign in support of food and worker safety.

In 2012, Wymans was certified for compliance in the Global Food Safety Initiative. In addition to health care benefits for employees, the company provides housing and competitive wages for its seasonal workers.

I contacted Wyman’s to ask if they provide  factory or barren tours to the public. Unfortunately, they do not.

According to company spokesperson Pat, Wyman’s receives frequent requests for company tours. They are considering options that comply with their insurance regulations. I will post an update if public tours become available.  

Wild Blueberry Land Columbia Falls Maine
“Wild Blueberry Land – Maine” by Dougtone is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

Blueberry Overproduction: Milbridge and Down East 

2018 was a difficult year for the Down East blueberry industry, in general.

In July of 2018, I briefly spoke to Marie Emerson on a family trip to Wild Blueberry Land in neighboring Columbia Falls, Maine.  Interestingly, she said the biggest issue facing North American blueberry farmers is competition from hybrid lab-grown blueberries. Also, they are fast growing, large in size and often imported into the US in large quantities. 

According to Emerson, their  taste is bland are they are not Wild Blueberries. However, they are plentiful and inexpensive.

Blueberries are currently overproduced. Significantly, domestic and overseas government subsidies are a factor, in addition to  natural market forces.  

Currently, the price of blueberries is at a 3 decade low. Good for consumers but not sustainable for suppliers.

Unfortunately, in 2018 the choice for smaller politically unconnected blueberry operations was an unenviable one.

  • Produce at a loss.  
  • Discontinue the operation.

Anyone who has spent time in the Pine Tree State knows that throwing in the towel goes against the Maine spirit (sometimes called moxey).  Thus, many producers forged ahead and lost money last year.

Kelco Industries building in Milbridge, Maine
Photo by Maineterrain.com

Kelco Industries of Milbridge

Kelco Industries primarily manufactures and sells wreath making supplies. They are one of the larger employers in Milbridge despite the work being somewhat seasonal.

I’ve see the Kelco name online and around town but was not familiar with the company. The name struck me as one of those vague sounding 1980’s era conglomerates. The type of enterprise that gobbled up smaller companies and put them all under one name. However, that is not the case, at all. 

Kelco, like Wyman’s is a home grown Milbridge company. 

Doug Kell

Doug Kell founded Kelco in 1955. A former New Jersey resident and ship captain, he did not relax in the off season winter months. Instead, Doug saw an opportunity to distribute Maine Christmas trees in New Jersey. Hauling trees was his side-hustle before there was such a term.

Soon, Doug expanded into making and distributing machinery for processing tree and creating wreaths. Kelco’s mechanical innovations allowed many small scale mom and pop shops to sell and market their own wreaths. 

With the success of his business, his family moved with him to Maine. Evidently, Doug’s charter boat days were behind him. The next six decades Doug focused on the Christmas tree industry. 

I intend to get an update soon but as of 2013, Doug had a familiar stable of loyal employees. Referred to as the Golden Girls, these workers have been with Doug since the 1950’s. That is both heartwarming and rare in today’s business world. Kudos, Kelco! 

An entire article could be written on Doug’s accomplishments. In addition to what is above, here are a few highlights of his storied career:

  • Licensed ship Captain
  • Pilot’s license
  • Air Force veteran
  • Art Gallery proprietor
  • Tree farmer

In 2015, Doug graciously donated his beloved twin engine GA-7 airplane to the Down East Emergency Medicine Institute to assist with search and rescue missions.

Boat in Bay Milbridge Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
Boat in the Bay by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

 

Fishing

Lobster is the most important product in Milbridge’s fishing industry. Other sea products include marine worms and clams.

Much of the commercial fishing activity takes place around the Town Marina and Jordan Pier. Thus, if you spend some time watching the incoming  fishing boats you’ll see lobster, shellfish, eels, urchins and more.

Tourism

Milbridge is riding the wave of increased tourism throughout Washington County. It  anchors one end of the Bold Coast Scenic Byway.  Visitors often choose Milbridge as their quiet home base for Acadia National Park trips.

From my own experience, people who specifically travel to Milbridge fall into one of three categories.

  1. Down East Explorers. These tourists cover a lot of area in Washington County and Mid-Coast. They need a somewhat centralized home base. Milbridge is a good choice.
  2. Acadia National Park visitors on a budget. People visiting Acadia in Summer or Fall face steep lodging rates if they’re looking to stay in Bar Harbor. Sticker shock makes them look elsewhere. Going South or West won’t save you much. However, looking in Milbridge offers substantial savings when compared with Bar Harbor or Mount Desert Island. Besides, it’s a scenic 40 minute drive to the park. A small price to pay to save a hundred dollars a night for a waterfront stay!
  3. People Who Love Milbridge. Many tourists come to Milbridge regularly despite not having any family roots or previous ties to the area. Often, what keeps them coming back is the memory of that first Milbridge trip. I call it Maine-fever. It’s a phenomenon that is certainly not unique to Milbridge. However, Milbridge has a lot of the characteristics that tend to make people fall in love with the area: coast, convenience, rivers, charm, friendly locals, etc.

 

Geology of Milbridge

Much of Milbridge’s beauty is associated with its rugged coastline and river valleys. The character of its terrain did not just simply appear overnight.

The Ice Age

The landscape of Milbridge was carved out by glaciers over a million years ago. Thick ice pushed its way through the Narraguagus Valley. In the process, land was contorted, rocks were moved, rivers and valleys were created.

Soil 

The soil in Milbridge is more suited to forestry than traditional farming. USDA Prime Farmland Soil represents a paltry 2% of Milbridge’s land area.

Only two areas in Milbridge have ideal soil for traditional (non-blueberry) farming, Pond island and select portions of Fickett Point.

 

Climate in Milbridge

 

Weatherspark.com summarizes Milbridge’s climate this way:

“In Milbridge, the summers are comfortable, the winters are freezing and windy, and it is partly cloudy year round. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 15°F to 73°F and is rarely below -0°F or above 80°F.”

Milbridge Narraguagus Winter Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
 Narraguagus Waterfront Winter by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

 

Winter in Milbridge

By Maine standards, Milbridge has a relatively mild winter season. However, everything is relative. If you are used to shoveling snow in Buffalo, New York, Milbridge winters will be easy. If you’re coming from Florida, it will take some getting used to.

Milbridge is located on the coast of Maine. Average coastal winter temperatures are higher than inland communities experience. The reason for this is that water has a higher heat capacity than ground coverings and rocks. Thus, the ocean holds onto its warmth while land inland cools rapidly. 

Snow season in Milbridge lasts just under 6 months. Typically, snow falls early November through mid-April.

Weatherspark.com calculates a tourism score based on the estimated percentage of rainless days with temperatures between 65-80 degrees Fahrenheit. Based on that index, the best time to visit Milbridge is early July though early September. Peak tourist weather occurs the second week of August.
 

 

Read About Milbridge

Books

You may be able to pick up some of these on Amazon but I recommend ordering through the Milbridge Historical Society. They really appreciate the support!

The History of Milbridge by Terry Hussey

Drops of Spray from Southern Seas by Lucy Brown Reynolds

Cemeteries of Milbridge by Diana Bartlett, Alice Beal & Beverly Pinkham

Pond Island Heritage by Anne C. Nash

 

Periodicals Serving Milbridge

Ellsworth American

Bangor Daily News

Milbridge Historical Society Newsletter

 

Watch Milbridge

Extreme Home Makeover – Milbridge

In 2007, ABC’s Extreme Home Makeover came to Milbridge. The show featured the Ray-Smith family. Spoiler alert. Their house was made over in a most extreme way. The episode aired in 2008. Season 5, epsiode 10.

Black Rock

Milbridge’s own Katie Aselton directed the 2012 motion picture Black Rock. Filming took place in Milbridge as well as other Down East locations. Kudos for bring the work back home Katie!

The Puffy Chair

This 2005 movie The Puffy Chair was filmed on location in Milbridge. Directed by Mark and Jay Duplass, the film also stars Milbridge native Katie Aselton. It won the Audience Award at the 2005 South by Southwest Film Festival.

Additionally, the film crew stayed at Aselton’s parent’s home during production.

 

Building Styles

Milbridge offers a mix of building styles, from simple 1970’s-era mobile homes to tastefully constructed resort style vacation homes.

Much of the architecture reflects Milbridge’s boom years of the mid to late 19th century. Fortunately, many of the stately homes from that time period have survived.

 

Large Milbridge Victorian House
Milbridge Victorian House courtesy of Maine An Encyclopedia

Victorian Architecture

A walk thorough of Milbridge’s older areas gives you a sense for the Victorian style architecture that predominated from the late 1800s through the early 1900s.

Purple Victorian Queen AnneHome off Main Street
Purple Queen Anne home
at 70 Main Street is on the market as of July 2019. Photo by maineterrain.com

 

The Victorian homes are interesting to observe and offer a glimpse into Milbridge’s past. Accordingly, it’s understandable that residents advocate for their refurbishment at every opportunity.

Milbridge Congressional Church Victorian style
Milbridge Congressional Church courtesy of Maine An Encyclopedia

Victorian architecture is characterized by:

  • Irregular layouts
  • Multiple gabled roofs
  • Asymmetrical window & door patterns
  • Complex shapes
  • Walls of varied textures 

Cape Cod  Architecture

Cape Cod style homes are also found in Milbridge’s historic areas. Significantly, the simple boxy style and straight lines are in start contrast to the area’s Victorian homes.

Cape Cod architecture is characterized by:

  • Simplicity
  • Symmetrical lines
  • No overhang from the roof
  • A front-to-back design
Milbridge Theatre building
The Milbridge Theatre building exhibits simple Cape Cod style architecture. Photo by maineterrain.com

 

Quality of Life in Milbridge

According to the latest comprehensive plan created by the town of no bridge, The top priority of the town is to protect his vital natural resources. The plan clearly spells out the quality of life factors that Milbridge residents value .

Clean air
Clean water
Low crime
Low traffic congestion
Lack of noise and light pollution levels
Access to goods and services
Good employment opportunities

While economic growth and income opportunities are addressed in the plan, the priority is clearly focused on maintaining environmental quality-of-life. To this end no bridge passed a 2009 ordinance that required a minimum of 6 acre lots on any rural property where housing is built.

Currently, here is what  Milbridge’s land composition looks like:

Milbridge has done an admirable job of addressing the goals laid out in its general plan.

Perhaps their most ambitious goal is that of bringing new jobs into town. For better or worse, job creation is tied to the health of its core natural resources rather than government subsidies or aggressive commercial growth strategies.  

In Milbridge, slow and steady wins the race!

Moving to Milbridge

Despite the stable population of Milbridge, people are moving into the area. Many recent Milbridge transplants are middle age or above. The Milbridge cost of living /quality of life ratio is a big draw. 

One of my neighbors, Dave, is one such transplant. He lives most of the year in Massachusetts but has a second home in Milbridge. I asked him how he ended up in Milbridge. “I wanted an affordable place on the coast. I put my finger on a map of Maine, starting in Portland and followed it North till I found a town on the water we could afford,” he answered. 

That is the same logic that brings many people to Milbridge.

 

 

Milbridge Visitor Information

Pronunciation

I don’t think I’ve ever heard an egregious mispronunciation of Milbridge, although I’m sure it happens. However, some neighboring town names are regularly butchered by visitors from away.

From Away

On a side note, if you are not a local resident, you are from away. Do not read too much into it. It means exactly what it says, nothing more. In my experience, it doesn’t (necessarily) have a negative connotation.

Pronunciation Rule

This rule is not perfect. However, if you want to guess on the correct pronunciation of a Down East town, here’s my suggestion.

Either pronounce with no accent at all or place the accent on the last syllable rather than the first.

For example:

Steuben

  • stu-BEN = correct
  • stu-ben = passable
  • STU-ben = definitely from away

Again, this tip will not work in every situation but I like your odds!


 

Airports

The closest airport is Hancock county bar harbor airport. However, The closest major airports are Bangor international airport, Portland international, and Manchester, in that order.


 

Get Around in Milbridge

Public Transportation

Milbridge offers limited public bus service. The once-daily  service is along a route that runs on Us-1 from Calais to Bangor. West Bus Service‘s Milbridge pick up location is at:16 West ManorMilbridge, ME 04658

Milbridge Rural Road Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
Milbridge Rural Road by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

 

Walk

Milbridge is pedestrian-friendly. Although rural areas lack sidewalks, traffic is sporadic. Conversely, the downtown area is easy to navigate with clearly marked streets.
 
Additionally, the recently opened Milbridge Commons Walking Trail provides another great walking option. Located in the downtown area, this nature walk takes you along the Narraguagus River. Also, it is a paved path, ideal for strollers, wheelchairs or anyone requiring sure footing on their nature treks.
 

Drive

Fortunately, Milbridge is easy to navigate by car. The lack of traffic lights is indicative of typically low traffic levels. 
 
Although many people visit Milbridge to reconnect with nature, we do recommend having an automobile. 
 

Ride Bike

The Bold Coast Scenic Bikeway is the first of its kind in Maine! It covers over 200 miles on the rural roads from Gouldsboro to Calais, with a stretch running through Milbridge.
 
The bikeway is routed through scenic rural areas with low-speed limits and low automobile traffic.
 
Read Peggy Grodinsky’s account of her 2017 Bold Coast bicycle trip in New England Magazine here.
 
More information on biking the Bold Coast here
 
Also, here is a map of Bold Coast bike routes assessed by safety of use.   
 
 

Uber, Lyft or Taxi in Milbridge

None of these options are available in Milbridge, to the best of my knowledge. However, services like Uber and Lyft are growing by the day and do not require the infrastructure or customer base that a taxi company does. Thus, I recommend checking their Apps to verify current availability in Milbridge and other Down East areas.  
 
Milbridge Sunrise Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
Milbridge Sunrise by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

 

 

Scenic Areas of Milbridge

The Bold Coast Scenic Byway Project was created in 2011, in partnership with the state.

Milbridge is the first stop at the easternmost point of the bold coast scenic byway. The gold coast scenic byway is a worthwhile 125 mile drive that spans over 20 communities on the coast of Down East Maine.

Milbridge’s areas of note according to the Downeast Coastal Scenic Inventory database.

McClellan Park Fog Rainbow Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
McClellan Park Fog Rainbow by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

McClellan Park
Beaver Brook Meadow
Back bay
Mill river

Public Access to Waterways of Milbridge

Recreational boating access is available within the town limits.

The Town Marina

The Town Marina is located in downtown Milbridge on Narraguagus Bay. This marina is open to the public. For your boat launching needs there are boat ramps and a pier. Accordingly, this is the most popular public access water point in Milbridge for both commercial and recreational boaters.

Stover Cove Nikki Graham Milbridge Maine maineterrain.com
Stover Cove by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

Stover Cove Boat Launch

Also open to the public, this launch is suitable for smaller watercraft.

Jordan Pier

This boat launch is for the exclusive use of commercial fisherman.

Ray’s Point

Rays Point public access is open to recreational users.

Eagle MilbridgeNikki Graham maineterrain.com
Eagle in Milbridge by Nikki Graham. Used with permission

 

 

Wildlife of Milbridge

The bays, flats and river areas of Milbridge provide both natural resources and an ideal habitat for wildlife. Federal, state, and local laws are in place to protect these habitats.

 

Milbridge Squirrel Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
Milbridge Squirrel by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

 

Popular Hikes In and Around Milbridge

Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge

Inside Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge you’ll find both Petit Manan and Nash Island Light Houses. 

Petit Manan Light Station is the second tallest light station in Maine. Additionally, it is also home to a colony of Puffins.

Both lighthouses are on islands only accessible by boat. 

Petit Manan is known as a premier bird watching location. 

Birch Point Trail (Steuben)

Birch Point Trail is just over 4 miles, round trip. It leads through a range of habitats and is well maintained, according to noted Maine outdoors- woman, Aislinn Sarnacki.

This trail runs through blueberry fields so snacks are readily available for the taking

There are also a series of wooden informational signs that provide interesting facts about the area you are exploring.

Pigeon Hill

The Pigeon Hill Trail in Steuben is a moderately difficult hike at 1.4 miles. Additionally, there are elevation changes.  There are spectacular view at the 300 foot+ summit of Pigeon Hill.

On the way back down, you’ll see the remnants of an old silver mine.

 

Foliage on Hollingsworth Trail Steuben
Hollingsworth Trail by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

 

Hollingsworth Trail (Steuben)

Steuben’s Hollingsworth Trail is a 3.4 mile round trip. Additionally, hikers report that Hollingsworth is a good trail for kids.

Wildlife is plentiful and easy to spot. Also, the trail runs through  a cedar bog. Feel free to bring your dog (on leash only). 

One of the most interesting features of this trail is the rapidly changing ecosystem. One moment you are warm and surrounded by blueberries. Ten minutes later the blueberries are gone, replaced by cedar trees and bog water. Next, the flat ground turns uneven with rocks and brush. The temperature fluctuates wildly. It’s hard to believe these changes transpire over the course of only a few miles!

Alltrails.com rates this hike 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Hazel Stark leading family on hike through Hollingsworth Trail in Steuben
Hazel Stark of Maine Outdoor School leading our family hike on the Hollingsworth Trail.

 

Milbridge Commons Wellness Park

The newly opened Milbridge Commons Wellness Park is located downtown and American with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliant. This pleasant in-town walk takes you on a scenic on a 72″ wide paved trail along the Narraguagus Bay. It is stroller and wheelchair friendly.

If you want to check it out virtually before going, follow this link.

Trail Maps

The United States Fish and Wildlife Service has an easy to read map of the Petit Manan and Gouldsboro trails. Also, provided are directions on how to drive there. Download their free trail map here (printable PDF).
 

Birding Trail Map

With its miles of coastline and pristine nature, Maine is a birder’s paradise. According to the Audubon Society, Maine has over 17 million acres of important bird areas.

Accordingly, it’s no surprise that Milbridge and its surrounding communities have well established birding trails.

Here is a link to a detailed Downeast birding trail map, courtesy of Mainebirdingtrail.com.

 


Museums

 

Milbridge Historical Society

The Milbridge Historical Society Museum offer free admission. However, check ahead for hours which are seasonal, like many businesses Down East.

This museum features rotating exhibits by local artists. Also, events featuring speakers of note take place periodically. 

 

Events

Milbridge Days Festival

One event that is unique to Milbridge is the Milbridge Days Festival.

This event has be an annual town showcase for over three decades. Typically, Milbridge Days takes place over a weekend in July. 

Contestant in the Milbridge Days Codfish Relay Race
Codfish Relay Race 2019 contestant waiting to run.

 

Festivities include:

  • Downtown Parade
  • Blueberry Pie Sale
  • Silent Auction
  • Car Show
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Games
  • Library Book Sale

The Annual Codfish Relay Race.

Sure, you may have been to dozens of other codfish relay races but you haven’t lived until you’ve seen Milbridge’s.

 
The 2019 Milbridge Days festival takes place July 25-28. The theme is Superheros. I am in the process of trying to talk my wife into the Codfish Relay (kids have committed). I hope to see you there! 
 

Parks in Milbridge

Low Tide Milbridge Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
Low Tide in Milbridge by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

McClellan Park

McClellan park is used for picnicking and camping as well. Significantly, McClellan park covers 10 acres on Tom Leighton Point. It features 14 campsites, refurbished fire pits, picnic tables and perhaps most importantly of all restroom facilities.

McClellan Park’s History

Does the name McClellan sounds vaguely familiar?  The park is named after Civil War General George McClellan’s son, George McClellan Jr.

Unfortunately, despite an admirable career in public service, George McClellan, Jr stood in George McClellan Sr.’s shadow.  Junior served as the 93rd Mayor of New York. Additionally, he unsuccessfully vied for Democratic nomination for for President in 1904.

Jr.’s Wikipedia page mentions nothing about his connection to McClellan Park. However, I may update that.  It does refer to his Grinch-like executive order against celluloid movies in 1908. Also mentioned is his mutinous commandeering of New York City’s first public subway ride in 1904. 

Personally, I will remember McClellan, Jr. for McClellan Park. 

 

Riverside Park

This paved walking path his Americans with disabilities act accessible. It follows the Narraguagus river near the downtown area.

Milbridge Moon Nikki Graham mainterrain.com
Milbridge Moon by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

 

Stargazing in Milbridge

Milbridge provides an ideal location to view stars at night. Two factors play a major role:

  • Low density population
  • Shoreline development  restrictions

In Milbridge, there are very few artificial obstacles to impede your view of the stars. 

To see how Milbridge and Maine, in general, stacks up against the rest of the country for light pollution, click here.

Tours

Robertson Sea Tours

Captain Robertson runs a variety of boat tours out of Milbridge. Additionally, he is a commercial fisherman who dives for sea urchins and scallops in the off-season. 

In Fall of 2019, Robertson’s Sea Tour’s  Captain Jim Parker was interviewed for an NPR news story. The story addressed warming sea waters and changing whale migration patterns. Accordingly, Parker’s boat tours diversified beyond whale watching. Parker explains:

“What I don’t want to do is put a half dozen people on the boat, have them all excited about going out and seeing whales when I know there’s not one there.”

source: Garcia-Navarro, L. (6 October, 2019), The Gulf of Maine is Warming and Its Whales are Disappearing. NPR.

 

Posing with Hazel Stark of Maine Outdoor School in parking lot of Hollingsworth Trail in Petit Manan Wildlife Refuge

Our family hike with Maine Outdoor School.

Maine Outdoor School

Maine Outdoor School (MOS) organizes custom and group field trips in throughout the Down East region. Read our interview with MOS founders Hazel Stark and Joe Horn here.

Milbridge Historical Society

 

Performing Arts

Milbridge Theatre

The Milbridge Theatre is currently operating as an outdoor only entertainment venue. Accordingly, their concert event schedule  runs from June through August.

Read our interview with Gateway Milbridge Chair Richard Bondurant  here.

 

Schools

Public school enrollment in Milbridge has been on a declining trend for the last few decades. This is primarily a result of a maturing population.

Milbridge Elementary School

The Bangor Daily News recently featured Milbridge Elementary School in an article on Downeast education. Click here to read the article.

Maine Outdoor School

Maine Outdoor School is the brainchild of co-founders Hazel Stark and Joe Horn.

Both are Naturalist Educators who teach children about their surrounding outdoor environment though field trips, camps and exploration


Shopping in Milbridge

Milbridge has an optimal combination  of convenience and serenity, in my opinion.

For example, there are many places you can in visit in Maine to “get away.” However, I want to connect with nature without giving up Wifi, plumbing, and some local shopping options.

Milbridge has enough shops that you can find what you need in town. However, if you need a big box store, Ellsworth (and the shopping crowds) is a 40 minute drive away. A perfect set-up for me.

Riverlily Milbridge Maine Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
Riverlily Winter (former Cherryfield location) by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

 

Stores in Milbridge

Family Dollar Store in Milbridge, Maine
Everytime I’m in Milbridge I find myself in this store.

Family Dollar

The Family Dollar is the closest thing Milbridge has to a big box store.

Some residents feel it stands out too much from the local theme of downtown Milbridge. The controversy has more to do with the large signage rather than the actual store. However, I think it’s a great convenience to have a store like this in town. 

 

Riverlily Milbridge Nikki Graham maineterrain.com
Riverlily Milbridge by Nikki Graham. Used with permission.

Riverlily

Very cool gift store featuring many local items. Additionally, the store is air-conditioned which many find pleasant in the hot summer months. Regardless, it certainly adds to shoppers’ browsing time!

I included pictures of both Riverlily’s former Cherryfield location and their current  Milbridge location. 

Viking Lumber

Viking Lumber is a local chain of building materials stores.  It is more than just a retail hardware store. They have their own sawmill, too. They can help you with any repair needs that are specific to Milbridge or Down East life.

Napa Auto Parts

The place to go in Milbridge for your do-it-yourself auto repair needs.


 

Vasquez Mexican Restaurant in Milbridge
Photo by Stephen Ondich

Food in Milbridge

Milbridge is home to a few good restaurants. However, be sure to call ahead to check hours before driving to them. Many restaurants Down East are seasonal or may have seasonal hours. Thus, you should not assume that restaurants will be open based on their Yelp operating hours.   

 

Bayside Market

Bayside is my go-to place for groceries in Milbridge. They are open 7 days a week. I’ve always found the employees to be helpful. Size-wise, it’s somewhere between a  Kroger and Trader Joe’s, for reference.

Vazquez Mexican Take-out

Great Mexican food at low prices at nice family business. What more can you ask? OK, maybe a few more tables, but that’s it.

I’ve been to hundreds of Mexican restaurants in California & New Mexico. Thus, I’m a bit of a Mexican food snob.  Vazquez is worth going to. They have a few picnic tables but most people take it to go. 

One of my favorite things to do is pickup Vazquez food and head down the street to McClellan Park and find a picnic table by the ocean. 

One time, we arrived into Milbridge late. Vazquez closed about 20 minutes earlier. They saw us and opened the kitchen back up. The kids were so happy. I’ll sing their praises to anyone!

 

44 Degrees North

44 Degrees North is a popular restaurant with both tourists and locals, alike. 

I’ve been there a few times for dinner. The service is friendly and welcoming. The food is good and there is a pub area, as well.

The Milbridge House

The Milbridge House is a popular breakfast and lunch destination for locals. Sadly, I have not tried it yet myself. However, I have heard good things from others who have.

Incredible Edible Milbridge

A few years back, Milbridge followed the lead of the English town of Todmorden and created Incredible Edible Milbridge. It is an ongoing campaign to plant locally grown fruits and vegetables throughout the downtown area.

Visitors are welcome to snack while they walk. The purpose is to promote locally grown produce and a healthy lifestyle.

 

Nikki Graham Milbridge photographer maineterrain.com
Nikki Graham, Photographer and Milbridge resident. Used with permission of Nikki Graham.

 


Featured Photographer – Nikki Graham

Nikki Graham’s photography can be seen on DownEast.com. Her tasteful images of Milbridge and Cherryfield garner praise on social media. Nikki’s art gives fans around the globe a taste of Down East life. Additionally, she takes a great selfie

Nikki was kind enough to sit down and answer a few of our questions.

 

Q&A with Nikki Graham

 

How long have you lived in Milbridge and what brought you here?

 
I moved to Cherryfield at the end of 2013 after living in Sarasota, Florida for 32 yrs. I bought a large Victorian in the historic district and lived there 4 and half yrs. Decided to downsize and since I loved the area and wanted to be on the ocean, I chose Milbridge. But living in Cherryfield, is basically like living in Milbridge since they are so close. I had been taking pictures in Milbridge the whole time.  
 

Are you a full time resident or seasonal?

Full time.

 

What type of camera/equipment are you using around town?

 
I have several cameras but I tend to favor Nikon. Recently, I got a new Samsung S10+ and the camera on it is fantastic so now I am also using that to take pictures. I use both DSLR and advanced point and shoot Nikons. 
 

Where are your favorite places to shoot in Milbridge?

 
McClellan Park, the town pier and the Milbridge Marina and my own backyard, which is a tidal cove. There are actually many spots to shoot along the coast that one can only find by driving around and exploring.  
 

What is the most surprising thing that you’ve captured on camera while shooting in Milbridge?

The tides.  
 

There are lots of great pictures floating around online of Washington County scenes. Has Down East Magazine or any other media sites reposted your pictures? If so, which ones?

 
They have reposted several but I haven’t had any published in their magazine yet. 
 

I have hundred of pictures of Milbridge and Cherryfield on my hard drive but only a handful of pictures that I’d consider decent. How do you capture the imagery of Milbridge that is in front of the camera onto the film, chip or paper in just the way you want?

 
Basically, I just try to capture what I see and don’t do a lot of editing. Whereas, I only try to make sure they look like they did when I took the picture. I have thousands of Cherryfield, Milbridge, Harrington, Franklin and basically the entire coast from Ellsworth on up to Lubec. 
 

Many of your pictures feature wild life.  How do you capture a good shot without scaring them off?

 
I think it’s a matter of luck most of the time. Sometimes, I spot a deer and stop the car and am able to get several shots and sometimes they run off immediately. I haven’t quite mastered the art of just sitting and waiting for wildlife to show up yet. LOL. But if I see it, I try to get it on camera! I especially love to photograph the beavers. I have actually gone to where they are and sat and waited to get shots of them doing anything! It is nice to have the Narraguagus River and the ocean and then all of the lakes we have access to. 
 

Moose are symbolic of Maine, however, they don’t often wander down toward the coasts. Have you ever spotted one in the wild? If so, what were the circumstances?

 
I have spotted them twice in this area. Once in a field along Black Woods Road and once on Tunk Mountain. I used to live in Alaska so I have seen a lot of moose in the wild and I was excited to move to Maine and see them again.
 

Milbridge (and Maine in general) is very scenic. It’s hard to take a really bad picture but it’s harder to snap a great one. Do you have any words of advice for amateurs who want to capture memorable of Milbridge on their iphone?

Good lighting is essential. 

Contact Nikki

You can see more of Nikki’s work online at:
 
 
Thank You Nikki!
 

 
]]>
https://www.maineterrain.com/milbridge-maine-guide/feed/ 15