A-LIST-October 2011
By Sophie Nelson

01 Penobscot Narrows Bridge + Observatory
While whooshing across the Penobscot Narrows Bridge, which spans the largest river in Maine, its thick suspension cables slice up the idyllic downeast views. But when you look out from the world’s tallest bridge observatory on a clear day, it’s possible to see for forty uninterrupted miles.

02 Bailey Island Bridge
Those who have made the trip from Orr’s Island to Bailey Island won’t forget the charming little bridge made out of granite slabs unearthed from quarries in Yarmouth. The oddly stacked stone blocks of the Bailey Island Bridge were arranged to withstand harsh weather and tricky tides, but the craggy-looking bridge is topped by the smooth surface of Route 24 and a walking path.

03 Two-Cent Bridge
The Two-Cent Bridge (officially the Ticonic Footbridge) was reconstructed in 1903 after the original was washed away by high waters. For decades, the Waterville residents who worked at the paper mill in Winslow paid two pennies to walk back and forth across the bridge each workday. Today you can cross for free, but the footbridge retains both its nickname and its now empty tollbooth. 

04 Deer Isle–Sedgwick Bridge
The Deer Isle–Sedgwick Bridge has spanned Eggemoggin Reach since 1939. This high and narrow bridge, threaded together with freshly painted sea-green suspension cables, is a fitting gateway to the enchanted isles. Beloved as it is, however, the narrow lanes and relatively steep incline put some midcoast wanderers on edge.

05 Sunday River Bridge
Built in 1872, the Sunday River Bridge is reputed to be the most photographed, drawn, and painted covered bridge in the state. The wood has weathered beautifully, and the unique truss design casts light in lovely shapes on the walls and floor of the bridge. You may have seen the bridge in paintings and postcards, but it is worth a real-life look.

06 Piscataqua River Bridge
The Piscataqua River Bridge is always a welcome sight. When returning home on Interstate 95, the hearts of Mainers leap a little when the giant green beams and braided cables appear on the horizon. Halfway across the 4,503-foot bridge, travelers officially cross the state line—with New Hampshire receding into the distance, there are only miles and miles of Maine to go.