When considering the geography of the United States, many people wonder which of the 48 contiguous states lies the farthest to the east. This might seem like a simple question, but the answer depends on how one defines easternmost.” Among the contiguous U.S. states which exclude Alaska and Hawaii there is a clear winner based on longitudinal coordinates. Understanding which state is the easternmost among these 48 involves exploring not only map positions but also geographical quirks, coastal extensions, and longitudinal points.
Identifying the Easternmost State of the Contiguous U.S.
Basic Geography of the Contiguous United States
The contiguous United States, also known as the “Lower 48,” includes every state except Alaska and Hawaii. These 48 states stretch from the Pacific Ocean in the west to the Atlantic Ocean in the east, covering a wide range of longitudes and latitudes. While Maine is often associated with being far to the northeast, Florida extends significantly eastward as well. The question is which state stretches farthest to the east based on coordinates?
The Answer Maine
Among the 48 contiguous United States,Maineis the easternmost state. Specifically, a small coastal town called Lubec holds the distinction of being the easternmost point of land in the contiguous U.S. The exact spot is calledWest Quoddy Head. Located at approximately 66.95°W longitude, this headland is the closest point to Europe in the Lower 48 states and is the first place in the continental U.S. to see the sunrise for part of the year.
Why Maine Is the Easternmost
Longitude Determines Easternmost Location
Longitude lines run from north to south and measure east-west position on the globe. The lower the longitude (in degrees west), the farther east a location lies in the Western Hemisphere. For instance, New York City sits at about 74°W, while West Quoddy Head in Maine is nearly 66.95°W. This places Maine significantly farther east than any other state in the contiguous U.S.
Comparisons with Other Eastern States
Although other states are known for their eastern seaboards, none extend as far east as Maine
- Massachusetts– Cape Cod juts eastward but not as far as Maine.
- Florida– The southern tip and eastern coast are prominent, but Miami lies around 80°W longitude.
- New York– Long Island is far east but only reaches around 71°W.
- North Carolina– The Outer Banks extend into the Atlantic, yet still fall behind Maine in longitude.
Therefore, no state within the contiguous 48 matches Maine’s easterly projection along the coast.
Understanding West Quoddy Head
Geographical Significance
West Quoddy Head is located in Washington County, Maine, near the town of Lubec. It is the easternmost point of the U.S. mainland and is marked by the iconic red-and-white striped West Quoddy Head Lighthouse. The lighthouse itself is a well-known tourist attraction and stands on a headland that looks directly across the Quoddy Narrows toward Canada’s Campobello Island.
Sunrise in the U.S.
For parts of the year, West Quoddy Head is the first place in the contiguous U.S. to witness the sunrise. Due to the Earth’s tilt and its seasonal rotation around the sun, this honor sometimes shifts slightly to other locations in Maine, such as Mars Hill. However, West Quoddy Head remains consistently the easternmost point by coordinates.
Common Confusions and Misconceptions
Florida’s Eastern Edge
Many people mistakenly believe that Florida might be the easternmost due to its prominent location on many maps. While parts of Florida, like Cape Canaveral, are notable landmarks on the East Coast, their longitudinal coordinates still place them well west of Maine.
Map Projections and Misleading Visuals
Flat maps, particularly those using the Mercator projection, can distort the relative positions of landmasses. These distortions sometimes make it seem like places such as Cape Cod or even Georgia appear farther east than they actually are. Relying on exact geographic coordinates rather than visual impressions helps clarify the true easternmost state.
Historical and Cultural Importance
Maine’s Role in U.S. Geography
Maine is known for its rugged coastline, numerous lighthouses, and maritime history. Being the easternmost state adds to its geographic distinction. The state has long played a role in early American exploration and coastal defense. The fact that it lies closest to Europe in the Lower 48 emphasizes its strategic location.
Symbolic Value of the Easternmost Point
The designation of the easternmost point is more than a trivia fact it carries symbolic value. For example, watching the first sunrise of the new year from West Quoddy Head has become a tradition for many locals and visitors. The site also underscores Maine’s connection to the broader Atlantic world and its position at the forefront of each new day.
How Maine Compares to Alaska and Other Extremes
When All 50 States Are Considered
If Alaska and Hawaii are included in the discussion, the situation changes dramatically. While most people consider Alaska to be the westernmost state, it is also due to the Aleutian Islands crossing the 180th meridian the easternmost state by longitudinal measurement. However, this fact is not relevant when focusing strictly on the 48 contiguous states.
Other Geographic Extremes in the Lower 48
- WesternmostCape Alava, Washington (124.73°W)
- SouthernmostKey West, Florida (24.54°N)
- NorthernmostNorthwest Angle, Minnesota (49.38°N)
- EasternmostWest Quoddy Head, Maine (66.95°W)
These points form the geographic outer limits of the contiguous United States and provide an interesting way to explore the vastness and diversity of the country’s landscape.
Visiting West Quoddy Head and Lubec, Maine
Getting There
West Quoddy Head is accessible by car via U.S. Route 1 and state roads leading into Lubec, Maine. It is one of the more remote destinations in the state but is well worth the trip for those interested in geography, history, and natural beauty.
What to See and Do
- Visit the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse and museum
- Hike the trails at Quoddy Head State Park
- Take in views of the Bay of Fundy and Campobello Island
- Enjoy local seafood in the town of Lubec
These experiences highlight the unique culture and landscape of Maine’s coastal frontier.
The easternmost state among the 48 contiguous United States is Maine. Specifically, the point known as West Quoddy Head in Lubec marks the farthest east any part of the Lower 48 extends. This distinction is based on precise geographic coordinates, making it more accurate than simply estimating from map visuals. Maine’s rugged coast, historical importance, and connection to the Atlantic Ocean make it a fitting holder of this geographic title. For travelers, geography enthusiasts, and curious minds, discovering where the sun first rises on the American mainland is both enlightening and inspiring.