Route 182: Black Woods Scenic Byway

ME 182, Bristol Road, Blacks Woods Road · Franklin → Cherryfield

Leisurely17.2 mi20 min1,200 ft climbHigh point ≈ 500 ftOne way

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The drive

Route 182 crosses the Downeast interior for 17.2 miles from Franklin to Cherryfield. It is a Maine scenic byway, known as the Blackwoods Scenic Byway, and it runs past Tunk, Black and Schoodic Mountains and several lakes and ponds. The drive takes about 22 minutes, with 1,165 feet of climb and a high point of 482 feet.

Described as a quiet two-lane through forest, ponds and blueberry barrens, it is more scenic than twisty. Travel guides call it a shortcut between Ellsworth and Machias that is deliberately slower because of its limited width and sharp turns where it hugs the landscape.

Services are few. Moose are common at dusk.

Along the way

Franklin (ME 200)
Cherryfield

Elevation

1,200 ft of climbing · high point ≈ 500 ft

FranklinCherryfield

Curves

Mostly gentle curves

FranklinCherryfield

GentleHairpins

Good to know

Services are few, so fuel up in Ellsworth or Cherryfield first.
Moose are common at dusk and dawn.
The road is narrow with some sharp turns, and there is little traffic.

Open all year, weather permitting. Roads close for snow, fire, storms and repairs: before you set off, check New England 511 (Maine).

Questions about this drive

How long does Route 182 take?

Route 182 from Franklin to Cherryfield is 17.2 miles and takes about 22 minutes.

Is Route 182 in Maine a scenic byway?

Yes. The Blackwoods Scenic Byway follows part of Route 182 through Downeast Maine.

Is Route 182 twisty?

It is mostly a gentle scenic road, with some sharp turns where it follows the lakes and hills.

What you get in the app

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Distance, time, elevation, curves and intensity are from Carve's route. Checked 2026-10-28.

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