What are some of the worst roads to travel in Aroostook County? Potholes, frost heaves, erosion, fill-in patches and traffic are just some of the problems.

Never Seem to Get Fixed

The conditions are made worse with the tough winter, thaw and climate in Maine. The crews work hard, but sometimes it seems the roads never get fixed whether it's funding or just a lot to maintain.

Vehicles Take a Beating

Our vehicles take a beating and even though we have to take the same route day after day.

Main Roads and Back Roads

The main roads can be in tough shape, but they get the most attention. Backroads are where you can really find a mess, especially after winter.

5 Worst Roads in Aroostook County, Maine

There are more, but here are five of the worst roads in Aroostook County, Maine.

Route 1A (Presque Isle Street)

Route 1A was the 2019 runner-up for worst road in the Maine Better Transportation Association’s "Worst Road in Maine" contest. Potholes and pavement falling apart were the biggest issues. Winter travel can be treacherous with gusty winds blowing snow. Farm equipment and lack of repairs is a problem too.

Route 1

Route 1 is one of the most travelled roads in northern Maine. It runs for 100 miles in Aroostook County. In many cases, there are limited or no alternative ways to go. Winter takes its toll and snow can sometimes cover Route 1. In February 2025, the road was temporarily closed after snow piled up in the travel lanes near Mars Hill and Easton. Potholes and frost heaves can make for a bouncy ride. Traffic can also be heavy in peak hours.

Centerline Road

Centerline Road is another tough road to travel. Uneven surfaces and potholes are part of the complaints. In the winter of 2019, vehicles were stranded and snow clogged the road. Traffic can be heavy at times and damage the asphalt. Lack of funding for road repairs can cause a lot of problems too.

Route 2A (Haynesville Woods)

Route 2A was made famous by the Dick Curless song “A Tombstone Every Mile.” The road is reported to be haunted and has a long history of crashes and accidents. The road curves through a narrow stretch with big logging trucks everywhere. Regular maintenance is needed to keep it safe. Freezing and thawing weighs heavy on its overall condition. Poor visibility can be a factor too.

Grimes Road

Grimes Road floods almost every year. It causes major commuter issues for motorists and tears up the road really badly. One of the worst places is right on the Caribou and Fort Fairfield line. People have to take different routes due to the flooding and the road closure.

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