wrote:

Does anyone have any recommendations on the best route to maximize the
views of the foliage? Is it best to stick to the coast or stay inland
more?

I don't know about Maine, but here in NY state the trees that are the
closest to the Finger Lakes and Lake Ontario are the last to turn color.
The theory being that large bodies of water moderate the temperature of the
surrounding air, which in turn delays the change. In addition, trees that
are at higher elevations turn before those at lower elevations.

Thus, I would imagine a route further inland would be better if your goal
is to see color.

--
Peter