Maine is widely known for its coastline, which is featured prominently elsewhere on this site. But the inland portion of the state has a lot to offer, too. For the present purpose, a generous definition of inland applies- anything out of view of the ocean and which does not have an obviously marine theme.

That leaves us with quite a bit of territory, a small part of which is covered here. Some of this coverage is far from the ocean, including one famous spot which is actually in New Hampshire, but is a spring pilgrimage for many snow-crazy Maine residents. Tuckerman's Ravine, cut into the shoulder of Mt. Washington, is actually visible from the Portland area on a clear day, so it seems like it should count as being in Maine. The rest of the obviously inland photos here pay homage to Baxter State Park, Governor Percival Baxter's unique gift to the people of the state of Maine. This fabulous wilderness area contains Maine's highest point, mile high Baxter Peak, which is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.

Not surprisingly, the remainder of the images here are within a few minutes drive of the ocean, reflecting both my residence and my personal coastal bias. In one case, the liquid water shown (or implied anyway) around Goose Island, is actually a brackish salt marsh pond. In all other cases, it is fresh lake or stream water. Several of these images show water which is mirror smooth and still, the antithesis of the frothing restless ocean. The peaceful quiet and relaxation offered by these tranquil places is at first glance radically different than coastal locations. But in fact they are fundamentally similar, merely different facets of Maine's rich and beautiful natural environment.