Driving from Maine to NH
 

I'll be leaving from Camden and would like to drive home through NH and VT, with my first stop being the Franconia area of NH. I want to drive the Kanc, which I missed two years ago due to damage from Irene.

Can anyone recommend a convenient and scenic route?

Two years ago I drove in the opposite direction, from Jackson to Bar Harbor, and took Route 2 most of the way, which I enjoyed, and picked up 95 for the last hour or so. But coming from Camden, I'm not sure of the best way to get on to Rt 2 and can't see a better westerly route. Any suggestions?

If I take Rt. 2, would I have to go up to Bangor to pick it up? Thx.

No you'll be picking up Route 2 in Bethel.

Take 17 from Camden through Augusta , then rte 11 towards Winthrop, to 133 through Wayne Lakes, then I think it's 219 and 26 over to Bethel/ Route 2. Tubby's in Winthrop or Wayne is a good place to stop for lunch. Lobster rolls, fried maine seafood, sandwiches, chowder...and some of the best ice cream anywhere.

Thanks, Clark.

Can you tell me what these roads are like, traffic wise, scenic wise, etc., and how long it would take to get to Bethel on this route?

17 is one of those 2 lane, 50mph roads where there is a "slower traffic move to the right" turnoff once in a while. A body shop here and there, country homes, lots o greenery. Getting through Augusta takes about 15 minutes and then the Winthrop/Wayne Lakes area is a little slower going with some twists and turns, but has some nice turnouts...lakes, apple farms, strawberry picking etc.

Camden to Bethel will take about 2 and a half hours and to Franconia another 90 minutes.

Sounds perfect, just what I'm looking for.

Thanks, and thanks for the food recos also.