The Best Leaf Peeping Autumn Foliage Drives in Southern Maine

The autumn foliage this year in southern Maine is predicted to be one of the most brilliant on record because of the unseasonably high rain the area received over the summer. And right now is the perfect time to take in what is easily one of our country's most breathtaking natural wonders.

Every year, thousands of out of state visitors (or, as we in Maine call them, "folks from away") flock to Maine to get a glimpse of the rich colors and breath in that crisp autumn air. Here are five routes that are sure to satisfy your urge to see the best of what Maine foliage has to offer every autumn. Keep in mind that many of these leaf peeping trails cross or overlap, so you could easily start on one and end up on another, getting a full foliage fix that will last you until next season.

Route 4, Berwick to Waterboro - This route is approximately 20 miles long, and takes you along a nicely wooded drive. You'll go past Shaker Pond and through Alfred, which has a charming town center with a plant nursery (great for those autumn mums or fresh Maine apples), general store, and a few quaint restaurants.

Route 5 (Sokokis Trail) - Sokokis Trail runs from Waterboro to Cornish and is another 20 mile drive through undeveloped areas that have stunning autumn foliage. Cornish is a lovely little town with several antique stores and a handful of restaurants to choose from - you'll definitely want to walk up and down the main thoroughfare to stretch your legs and see what this town has to offer.

Route 202, Waterboro to Gorham - Route 4 and Route 202 merge and route 5 splits off of route 4, so you may get confused when you hit Waterboro, but no need to fret - the 20 mile drive from Waterboro to Gorham is filled with trees and brilliant foliage. Plus, it's easy to continue on to Portland if you'd like to check out some of the trendy shops on Exchange Street after your foliage fix.