Maine is the
easternmost of the states. Maine's winters can be harsh,
making the state a less popular retirement destination than
sunnier climes. Yet Maine offers a lot to prospective
retirees in the form of beauty, history, a magnificent
coastline, low real estate prices, and much more. Covered
mostly by forest, Maine's development is concentrated along the
coast, especially in the south of the state. Although
Maine is the largest of the six New England states, is has fewer
people per square mile than any of the others. Most of the
upstate area are wilderness areas that offer superb outdoor
opportunities in all seasons.
Along its slanted coastline Maine features sandy beaches
(primarily in the south), rugged, rock-strewn shores with high
cliffs, panoramic views and giant stone outcrops. Portland,
Maine's largest city, is located on the Casco Bay, the closest
major US seaport to Europe. Bar Harbor, in the midst of Acadia
National Park, is one of the state's most popular getaway towns.
Shipbuilding was the core of Maine's industry at some points in
the past, but now a diverse blend of lumber, fishing, and
tourism are key economic forces in the state.
The Bath Iron Works reflect Maine's long association with maritime construction. Maine's agriculture is hampered by a short growing season but the blueberry crop is notable. In fact most of the national blueberry harvest comes from Maine. Another food industry dominated by Maine is lobster production. Maine harvests the majority approximately 90% - of the US lobster catch.
Lobster dinners
remain a quintessential Maine tourist experience.
Mount Katahdin in Baxter State Park is the northern terminus of
the Appalachian Trail, which winds south all the way to Florida.
One spectacular and very challenging trail takes hardy hikers
and backpackers up to the craggy top of Katahdin and over the
"knife's ridge" in a huge looping route.
