You didn't indicate how you're getting to Ellsworth. At any rate Route 1 is typical Maine two lane highway suitable for eighteen wheelers and large motorhomes. Heading for Calais it's the scenic way to go, small towns etc. Cross into Canada at Lubec for a visit to FDR's summer home at Campobello. Come back out and proceed up to Calais.
A quicker way to reach Calais would be on Route 9 known locally as "The Airline". It was recently upgraded with the hilly grades providing passing lanes. Lots of wilderness with only an occasional home or business. If you're coming up I 95 to Bangor you take l 395 down to East Holden then head North on Maine Route 46 to East Eddington which meets Route 9. If you choose this way be sure to have plenty of fuel as stations are few and far between.
Usually we go via Route 1 for the scenery and small towns and come back via Route 9.
