After completing my cross-Canada EV journey to Cape Spear, Newfoundland, and even venturing into Saint Pierre, France, I decided to take a different route home. Looking to change up the scenery—and avoid backtracking—I opted to take a Maine road trip through the U.S., adding a new dimension to my electric vehicle travels.
This segment of my trip took me from New Brunswick through Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, and back into Ontario.
Here’s a detailed account of this northern New England road trip, highlighting key stops, charging experiences, and memorable moments along the way.
Day 1: Saint Andrews, NB to Bar Harbor and Bangor, ME
Leaving the charming town of Saint Andrews, New Brunswick, I reminisced about driving on the ocean floor to Ministers Island—a unique experience that stands out among my travels.
Thanks to the complimentary EV charging at the amazing Algonquin Resort, I departed with an 80% charge, ready to cross into Maine.
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Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor had always been on my list, and this trip provided the perfect opportunity to visit. Upon arrival, I found the town bustling with tourists.
Despite the crowds, its charm was undeniable—colorful shops lined the streets, seafood restaurants spilled out onto patios, and the scent of salt air mixed with fresh lobster rolls filled the harborfront. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and soak it all in. Thankfully, I wasn’t in a rush.
I managed to locate an EV charging station near the action however, both stalls were occupied. Consulting plugshare.com, I found another station at the Bar Harbor Town Lot just off the main drag. From there, it was a nice bike ride back to the action.
Despite having indulged in numerous lobster rolls throughout the Maritimes, I couldn’t resist one more at a local eatery.
While it was decent, it didn’t quite match the flavors I’d experienced in Prince Edward Island or at the home of the giant lobster in Shediac, New Brunswick.
After my meal I enjoyed a pint in the garden lounge at the Ivy Manor Inn. There was live music playing and was the perfect place to relax and recharge while my car did the same. That said, the town was very busy and very toursity so I decided to continue on rather than spend the night.
Maine Electric Vehicle Charging
Maine has been actively expanding its electric vehicle charging infrastructure to support the growing number of EV drivers. As of 2024, the state boasts over 500 public charging locations with more than 1,000 charging ports, including Level 2 and DC Fast Chargers.
Initiatives like Recharge Maine and Efficiency Maine have played a key role in ensuring that EV charging is accessible across both urban and rural areas. While some remote regions where I travelled through still have limited options, ongoing investments and planning continue to make Maine electric vehicle travel increasingly convenient.
After a quick charge and a Dunkin Donuts coffee (because, New England) at a Supercharger in Ellsworth, I was back on the road.
Bangor, Maine Highlights
Continuing to Bangor, I arrived before sunset and took the opportunity to visit the residence of renowned author Stephen King. His home, adorned with gothic features, exuded the eerie charm one would expect.
Another notable landmark was the towering 31-foot Paul Bunyan statue, weighing approximately 3,700 pounds.
Interestingly, this was the second Paul Bunyan statue I’d encountered on my EV journeys, the first being on my California and Oregon west coast trip.
Without prior accommodations booked, I opted for a Marriott on the city’s outskirts. While it lacked EV charging facilities, I managed a trickle charge overnight, adding about 10% to my battery. From there, it was a short drive to the Bangor Beer Co., where I enjoyed a pint and meal to cap of a great day.
For those seeking hotels with EV charging in Bangor, the Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway offers mainebiz.bi.
Day 2: Bangor to Burlington, VT
Cole Land Transportation Museum
Before departing Bangor, I visited the Cole Land Transportation Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of vintage vehicles.
A highlight was a tiny electric vehicle displayed prominently at the entrance—a nod to the evolution of transportation and fitting for this EV road trip.
Vermont via New Hampshire
As I journeyed towards Vermont, I stopped at a Supercharger in Bethel, Maine, conveniently located near a roadside smokehouse and a great little grocery store fearuring local products.
These unique charging spots, away from typical mall parking lots, offer a more authentic local experience. I enjoyed a hearty lunch and picked up some local treats for the road.
Montpelier, Vermont
After a pit stop in Gorham, New Hamsphire, I was on to Vermont. My plan to visit the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury was thwarted by timing—I arrived too late for a tour.
Additionally, my intended stay in Montpelier faced challenges due to recent flooding that had affected the downtown area.
Despite these setbacks, I found a grocery store with free EV charging a short bike ride from downtown.
Earlier, I had searched PlugShare and saw that a charger near the Capitol building was marked as down—when I checked it out anyway, I discovered it was recently underwater due to the floods.
While exploring, I came across a community fundraiser supporting flood relief efforts, complete with live entertainment and local food vendors. I grabbed a bite to support the cause and took it all in with the fantastic backdrop of the town’s historic core—a true testament to its resilience.
Burlington, Vermont
Arriving in Burlington, I discovered that downtown hotel prices were steep, with rates around $400 USD per night.
Opting for a more budget-friendly Marriott on the outskirts, I still paid close to $200 USD. The silver lining was its proximity to a Supercharger, allowing me to top up before the next day’s journey.
Day 3: Burlington, VT to Cornwall, ON
Lake Champlain Ferry
Departing Burlington, I took the scenic route via the Lake Champlain ferry, connecting Charlotte, VT, to Essex, NY.
Despite the grey day, this brief ferry ride added a pleasant maritime interlude to my road trip and saved several miles of driving.
North Star Underground Railroad Museum
In New York, I visited the North Star Underground Railroad Museum in Ausable Chasm.
The museum offers profound insights into the region’s role in the Underground Railroad, highlighting the courageous efforts of those who sought freedom and those who aided them.
I parked at nearby Ausable Brewing Company, which—unexpectedly—had an EV charger available.
From there, I hopped on my bike and made the short ride to Ausable Chasm, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” Formed over 500 million years ago, this dramatic sandstone gorge was carved by the Ausable River and has been drawing visitors since the 1870s, making it one of the oldest natural attractions in the United States.
With towering cliffs, scenic walking trails, and even rafting opportunities through the narrow canyon, it’s a stunning example of geological beauty. Pairing a visit to the chasm with local craft beer and a bike ride made for one of the most memorable and unexpected highlights of the trip.
Final Stops
Before crossing back into Canada, I made a final Supercharger stop in Plattsburgh, then headed to Bokie’s Drive-In in Malone, NY.
This retro 1950s-style diner—with its bright pink exterior and Elvis cutouts—was the perfect place for a greasy burger and peanut butter milkshake. A nostalgic (and fattening) way to end my U.S. detour.
An EV-Friendly northern new england road trip
This northern New England adventure was a refreshing change from my usual Canadian routes—and exactly the kind of detour I didn’t know I needed.
As part of a Maine road trip and Vermont road trip, I explored quiet backroads, charming towns, and scenic viewpoints that made every mile worthwhile.
While Maine electric vehicle charging infrastructure was a bit sparse in spots, some extra planning ensured a smooth and stress-free journey. Between the landscapes, history, and local flavor, this turned out to be one of the most memorable EV trips I’ve taken yet.
Here are the Maine road trip stats as per ABtuRP. Note, my actual charging time was more with the overnight trickle charging at hotels.
READ MORE: Is a Minnesota to Manitoba EV road trip possible? The CBC says no.
northern new england road trip EV FAQ
How accessible are EV charging stations in northern New England?
While major towns and cities like Bangor and Burlington have EV charging facilities, rural areas may have limited options. It’s advisable to plan charging stops in advance.
Are there any unique attractions along this route?
Absolutely! Highlights include the Cole Land Transportation Museum in Bangor, the Ben & Jerry’s Factory in Waterbury, and the North Star Underground Railroad Museum in Ausable Chasm.
Is the Lake Champlain ferry EV-friendly?
Yes, the ferry accommodates vehicles, including EVs. However, it’s essential to ensure your vehicle has sufficient charge before boarding, as charging facilities are not available on the ferry.
