But leave extra time. It can take longer than you had hoped to shuttle cars or paddle in the wind. And bring an extra set of keys. Stash them with the car, or let your canoe partner carry them. Buy a comfortable paddle vest and keep it on while in the boat.
Many people underestimate how cold Maine's waters are and how hard it is to right a swamped canoe.
Get the maps. The U.S. Geological Survey topographical sheets will help you navigate the lakes. One place to find them is DeLorme Publishing Co. in Yarmouth. The Maine Atlas, also published by DeLorme, gives the best overview of the trip and adjacent roads. For the rivers, rely on the Appalachian Mountain Club River Guide for Maine, the St. Croix International Waterway Commission's river map, as well as a trio of Maine Geographic canoe guides published by DeLorme.