It’s easy to understand why many people will choose to experience the 2024 solar eclipse in Maine.
Growing up in this great state and later living abroad has given me the appreciation that few places in the United States rival Maine’s natural beauty and small-town charm.
It’s a rare opportunity, considering the last time a total eclipse crossed over this beautiful state was in 1963. After 2024, the next total solar eclipse in Maine will not return until 2079!
Once the eclipse passes over New Hampshire, Maine will be the last of the 13 States in the path of totality to view this celestial event, the 2024 total solar eclipse.
Whether you are a local, a “Main-ah,” or traveling from out of state, I have some suggestions and tips to help make your eclipse experience a memorable one.
This post may contain affiliate links, where I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Read more in this disclosure policy.
Maine Total Solar Eclipse Countdown
April 8, 2024
State of Maine Eclipse Time
Partial Eclipse begins:
Mon, Apr 8, 2024, at 2:16 pm EDT
Totality begins:
Mon, Apr 8, 2024, at 3:28 pm EDT
Totality ends:
Mon, Apr 8, 2024 at 3:35 pm EDT
Partial Eclipse ends:
Mon, Apr 8, 2024 at 4:41 pm EDT
****Time of totality based on the first and last view in Maine. The approximate time and length of viewing will vary depending on the observer's location within the state and path of totality. All times calculated from the US Naval Solar Eclipse computer.
What is a
Total Solar Eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun while in its "new moon" phase, precisely aligned at a correct distance within its orbit, completely covering the Sun's bright disk from view for a brief period of time, as observed from a specific location here on Earth.
With so many factors required to come together at one singular moment, it's clear why a total solar eclipse is considered a rarity to witness.
On average, they happen somewhere on the planet about once every 18 months but only reoccur in any one exact location approximately once every 375 years.
The last total eclipse of the Sun occurred in the US in 2017. After 2024, the next total solar eclipse will not reappear in the States until 2044.
For more information on the other three types of eclipses (partial eclipse, annular eclipse and a hybrid eclipse) be sure to read my article "What is a Solar Eclipse?"
Eye Protection
A solar eclipse is a spectacular event to witness, but let's make it very clear that it should only be viewed through special-purpose solar filters manufactured in compliance with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard.
It can be very damaging to your eyesight if attempted without the proper protection, such as eclipse glasses or solar protective filters.
Solar Filter Tips
- Check your certified solar eclipse glasses, camera, or telescope filters for defects or damage like scratches or pinholes before using them during the eclipse.
- Wear certified glasses or use filters at all times while staring at the eclipse before and after totality.
- Use caution during totality if not protected by filters, replacing them before the Sun's light reappears.
- If using binoculars or telescopes to view the eclipse, use only Solar filters designed to be attached to the front of the scope, not threaded into the eyepiece, as the optics of the eyepiece could damage the filter and result in injury to the eye.
We discuss solar viewer options in another article if you would like to know more.
Are Solar Filters Needed During Totality?
The only time a total eclipse is safe to view without a protective filter is during the very short stage of totality, lasting only seconds to minutes.
Solar viewers or filters will need to be used once again as the Sun's bright face begins to reappear while viewing the remaining phases of the eclipse.
Eye protection must be used 100% of the time while viewing the eclipse except during totality.
How long the eclipse will be in totality depends on where you are located within its path of totality, which we will discuss next.
Understanding the
Path of Totality in Maine
During a total eclipse, a dark shadow is cast upon the Earth created by the Moon orbiting at just the right distance between the Earth and the Sun, perfectly aligning and completely obscuring the view of the Sun's disk from that location here on Earth.
As illustrated in the image above, the umbra is the darkest part of the Moon's shadow. This shadow tapers to a narrow circular cone as it reaches the surface of the Earth, covering a radius of approximately 115 miles.
The pathway the umbral shadow travels across the globe is referred to as the path of totality. It is illustrated in the media clip above as a black dot within the Moon's larger penumbral shadow moving across Mexico, The United States and eastern Canada.
It is from within this path of the umbral shadow, that the April 8th, 2024, Total Solar Eclipse can be observed.
To experience the complete "totality" of the bright face of the Sun during the 2024 solar eclipse in Maine, you must be inside the path of totality while viewing the eclipse.
The totality phase will last longest when viewed from a location directly in the middle of this path. As you move further away from this imaginary center line to the outer edge of the path, left or right, the length of time of totality shortens.
Locations in Maine outside of this path will not experience totality but a partial eclipse, where the Sun is only partially covered by the Moon.
Where does the Path of the 2024 Total Eclipse Cross Over Maine?
The 115-mile-wide path of totality will make its way through Maine's western border, passing over much of the northern part of the state.
We'll look at 15 towns or areas beginning where the total eclipse enters Maine and work our way north.
Later in this article I will provide instructions on where and how to look up 2024 eclipse times for any location in Maine.
1. Rangeley, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:17:58 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:29:25 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:30:38 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:39:14 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 2m 28.8s
The first area to note as the eclipse makes its way into Maine is the Rangeley Lakes Region.
This region is well-known for its vast areas of forests, lakes, and mountains, and is also home to Maine's largest independent ski resort, Saddleback.
They are celebrating the eclipse hosting a Shadow of the Sun Festival - April 5-8, 2024, leading into a Lights Out Party on eclipse day, April 8. Details to both solar eclipse events can be found on the town's website.
You will find many trails and peaks to explore. Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust offers self-guided tours to bird-watching trails, an artists' trail, and a dark sky trail.
If you enjoy stargazing, Rangeley is said to be the closest dark sky belt location near urban amenities in the Northeast, an excellent opportunity to take in other celestial gems like the Milky Way.
You will find expected amenities and vacation activities in the area. The local chamber of commerce provides an online travel brochure as another helpful resource.
2. Carrabassett Valley, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:18:23 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:29:40 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:32:15 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:39:25 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 2m 34.5s
Carrabassett Valley is another beautiful mountain area providing many outdoor activities, such as hiking and mountain biking. The town website offers a "Stuff to Do" section.
The valley is best known for Sugarloaf Mountain, rising more than 4000 ft. It's Maine's largest ski resort destination, providing year-round activities along with shopping and dining.
They are hosting a Reggae Festival April 6-9, 2024. Look to their events calendar for future updates.
3. Bingham, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:19:03 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:30:35 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:32:26 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:39:47 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 1m 51s
Located on the Kennebec River, Bingham is a town where the wilds of Maine can be enjoyed during your total eclipse experience.
Houston Brook Falls is a great destination for a hike or pick one of the many adventures North Country Rivers offers to explore the area.
4. Moscow, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:19:04 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:30:32 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:32:30 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:39:48 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 1m 57.3s
Moscow, this scenic town in the path of totality, is an excellent location for exploring the woods of Maine. Retrace steps of history along the trail of Benedict Arnold's historic march to Quebec as it winds through this area along the Kennebec River and Wyman Lake.
5. Jackman, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:18:52 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:29:26 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:32:54 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:39:24 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 3m 28.2s
Jackman, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Maine" due to its stunning mountainous landscapes, will experience the longest period of totality on this list, lasting 3 minutes and 28.2 seconds, as provided by the US Naval Observatory.
Located on Maine's western border with Canada, you can drive along the Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway, experiencing some fantastic views of the area's landscape and wilderness.
The Attean Overlook and Moose River are sites not to miss. It's a perfect location if you enjoy hiking, fishing, or ATV riding.
Jackman's Chamber of Commerce provides a local event schedule with a list of restaurants and businesses.
6. Moose Head Lake Area
Eclipse Begins: 2:18:37 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:30:18 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:33:22 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:39:55 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 3m 04.8s
Moosehead, the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States, is one of Maine's jewels set to be in the 2024 path of totality.
The region is a haven for wildlife. An excellent opportunity to see moose, loons, and eagles in their natural habitats. Here are a few towns in the area to consider when planning your eclipse experience.
Greenville, Maine
Greenville sits at the southern end of Moosehead Lake and is the largest of the lake towns. You will find many shops and restaurants to experience the authentic small-town spirit of Maine.
It's well known for its historic steamship, The Katahdin, which offers many themed cruises and destinations depending on the season.
Rockwood, Maine
Rockwood, located on the western shore of Moosehead Lake, is in view of Mount Kineo State Park.
The park can only be accessed by water but offers numerous trails around the peninsula with an alluring 800-foot summit, providing amazing panoramic views of the Moosehead region.
There are shuttle boats, such as The Kineo Shuttle, offering transportation to the park.
Lily Bay Twp, Maine
Lily Bay, Twp, lies several miles north of Greenville on the eastern side of Moosehead Lake, next to Lily Bay State Park. It's a great location to rent a chalet, cabin, or camp inside the State Park.
7. Dover Foxcroft, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:18:37 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:30:18 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:33:22 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:39:55 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 3m 04.8s
Dover-Foxcroft, home of the Maine Whoopie Pie Festival, is divided by the Piscataquis River. It's a natural beauty surrounded by rolling hills, pristine lakes, and green forests.
You can find a variety of local shops and restaurants and many outdoor activities such as hiking, river excursions, or simply chilling in the tranquility of this charming New England town.
Peaks-Kenny State Park is a local attraction offering more than 10 miles of hiking trails.
Check-in with their town site for possible upcoming eclipse celebrations.
8. Lincoln, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:21:01 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:32:16 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:33:43 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:40:43 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 1m 27.6s
Lincoln has a deep history as a logging town, much like many other towns in this part of the state. You will find local Maine fare within its local shops and eateries.
They host a harvest moon festival in the fall and celebrate their infamous lake fowl bird, the Loon, with a festival in the summer.
Be sure to check in with their town site for all solar eclipse celebrations.
9. Millinocket, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:20:53 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:31:18 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:34:17 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:40:30 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 2m 59s
Millinocket is the gateway to Baxter State Park and proudly refers to itself as "Maine's Biggest Small Town."
Its beginnings were built on the Penobscot River by the logging and paper industry, but over the past decade, it has added to its service industry, catering to the many travelers enjoying its scenic beauty and outdoor activities for all seasons.
Here is the town's event calendar and list of suggested activities.
10. Baxter State Park
& Mount Katahdin, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:21:01 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:31:42 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:34:11 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:40:39 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 2m 29.6s
Spread across more than 200,000 acres, Baxter State Park is a wilderness paradise, with over 200 miles of trails, including the challenging ascent to Mount Katahdin, Maine's highest peak, and the northern end of the Appalachian Trail.
This region is Maine's inland crowning jewel for outdoor activities, beauty, and nature.
11. Island Falls, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:21:35 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:31:34 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:34:55 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:40:43 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 3m 20.6s
Once a summer playground for a young Theodore Roosevelt, Island Falls Maine is still a popular destination, doubling in size during the summer months. They have plans for an Island Falls Eclipse Fest.
It's ideal for those seeking adventure and relaxation, offering exceptional fishing, hiking, boating, and kayaking experiences in its pristine lakes, Mattawamkeag and Pleasant, and the Mattawamkeag River with views of Mt. Katahdin.
12. Houlton Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:22:11 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:32:00 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:35:20 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:40:58 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 3m 20.1s
Houlton, Maine, is planning a big weekend celebration for the upcoming 2024 eclipse. This would be an ideal spot about 1 hour and 40 minutes north of Bangor right off I-95. It is tied with Island Falls for the 2nd longest period of totality on this list at 3 minutes and 20 seconds.
Parking is provided with transportation to designated Star Parks for eclipse viewing. Activities planned include: Live Music, Brew fest, Planetarium tours, Craft Fair, Food Trucks, Comedy Night and more.
13. Mars Hill Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:22:18 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:32:01 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:35:15 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:40:49 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 3m 13.5s
Mars Hill, a small agricultural town north of Houlton, will also have a lengthy duration of totality of 3 minutes and 13 seconds.
You may also catch the end of the Big Rock Mountain ski season.
14. Presque Isle, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:22:13 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:32:05 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:34:55 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:40:40 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 2m 49.5s
Just a 50-minute drive north of Houlton and close to Caribou, Presque Isle is part of an extraordinary celestial journey - it's connected to both towns by the world's second-largest solar system model.
This educational model begins with the Sun at the Northern Maine Museum of Science, extending to Pluto, near Interstate 95 in Houlton.
All three towns in Aroostook County will coordinate a celebration of the Solar Eclipse with festivities including designated sites (star parks - viewing location) to enjoy the eclipse
15. Caribou, Maine
Eclipse Begins: 2:22:16 pm EDT
Totality Begins: 3:32:24 pm EDT
Totality Ends: 3:34:33 pm EDT
Eclipse Ends: 4:40:36 pm EDT
Totality Duration: 2m 08.7s
Caribou has a lively downtown featuring a variety of dining options, a cinema, spas, charming shops, and the iconic bronze caribou statue.
It will celebrate an entire weekend of solar eclipse events, which are still being finalized.
They too will be providing viewing areas called star parks. Updates will be provided on their town website.
How to find Solar Eclipse Times
for any location in Maine
Here are step-by-step instructions to search April 8, 2024 solar eclipse times for any location in Maine. We will use the United States Naval Observatory's Solar Eclipse Computer. I have provided a link for you here.
Times are provided in the UT1 time zone/military style. In this example totality time begins in Houlton at 19:32:00 or 7:32 p.m. for UT1 time zone.
We then need to convert the UT1 time zone to the local time zone in Maine/EDT. To do this we subtract 4 hours from the UTC1 zone which then becomes 15:32:00 or 3:32 p.m.
Converting military style -12:00 is noon. 13:00 is 1:00 pm and so on. In this example 15:32 would be 3:32 pm EDT.
Traveling to Maine
There are two major commercial airports in Maine for you to consider if flying to Maine for the eclipse: the Bangor International Airport (BGR) and the Portland International Jetport (PWM).
Both have multiple commercial carriers, and one of the two will be within three hours of all 15 locations on the list.
Presque Isle, Maine, has a smaller commercial airport, the Presque Isle International Airport (PQI), which is serviced by United Airlines.
Check pricing on rental cars and flights.
Can Weather Impact
The Solar Eclipse Experience?
Unfavorable weather, unfortunately, is one factor that can entirely spoil the 2024 total solar eclipse experience.
Weather predictions are just that, predictions. Cloud cover is not our friend during an eclipse event.
It's wise to prepare and have a possible plan "B," by selecting a secondary location to travel to in time for the eclipse, in case your initial choice proves unsuitable. Perhaps the difference between lowlands and the mountains.
What to Expect from the Weather in Maine During the 2024 Eclipse
Maine weather and temperatures can vary during early April as winter transitions into spring.
Using Houlton as an example, the average temperature range recorded from 1985-2015 was a low of 29˚ to a high of 49˚with an average visibility of 10 miles. You can modify for locations further north and south within the state.
Be sure to pack a variety of clothing for warm and colder weather.
The ground can be muddy in some locations as it thaws, so wear appropriate footwear.
What Will I Experience During a Total Solar Eclipse in Maine?
Maine is a state with four strong season's to enjoy throughout the year. The eclipse will appear as the winter season transitions into early spring.
You may experience all or some of these phenomena during the eclipse weather permitting with favorable skies.
Changing of Light
You may experience a quality of light resembling the dawn or dusk twilight periods. Shadows become sharper.
Wildlife Behavior
Animals may begin to believe it is the end of the day and start their end-of-day rituals. For example, birds may roost while bats appear in the skies as they would in the evening.
A Drop in Temperature
As the Moon covers the Sun, there is a notable change in temperature by several degrees.
Bailey's Beads
Moments before and after totality, the jagged lunar landscape allows small pockets of sunlight to shine through the valleys on the outer edge of the Moon, appearing as beads of light. These are known as Baily's Beads, named after Francis Baily, who first explained this phenomenon.
Diamond Ring Effect
The last moment before the Moon completely covers the Sun, the last bit of sunlight creates a sparkling effect on the edge of the Moon, which appears as a bright diamond with a ring around it.
Solar Corona
Perhaps the most spectacular sight is the solar corona, the Sun's outer atmosphere, which is usually invisible but can be seen during totality as a pearly white crown surrounding the black disk of the Moon.
Shadow Bands
These dark bands are elusive, wavy lines of alternating light and dark that can be seen moving on plain-colored surfaces just before and immediately after totality.
360-Degree Sunset
Often, in the sky during totality, there is a sunset-like effect that circles the entire horizon created from the light of the Sun shining through the atmosphere outside the path of totality.
For a deeper understanding of this process, read my article on what to expect during the 5 stages of a total solar eclipse.
Conclusion
If you love nature, Maine is a fantastic destination for enjoying the outdoors and its scenic beauty. It's the perfect backdrop for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, the 2024 total solar eclipse.
