Maine is known for its vast wilderness, picturesque coastlines, and numerous rivers and lakes, among other things, and there are plenty of hikes in Maine to satisfy any nature-appetite. lover’s Whether you’re looking for a quick, easy walk along the Atlantic coast or something a little more challenging up in the hills and mountains, the Pine Tree State has stunning scenery to offer hikers of all skill levels. That is why we are bringing you the best hikes in Maine today!
1. Cadillac Mountain – Hikes In Maine
Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is the epitome of Maine hiking. Hiking the mountain provides opportunities for forest strolls, rocky traverses, and breathtaking ocean views. Cadillac Mountain is the first place in the continental United States to see the sunrise every day for half of the year.
2. The Beehive
You might think the loop up The Beehive isn’t much to write home about, with only 1.4 miles and 550 feet of elevation gain. The Beehive, on the other hand, feels a little like a via ferrata, with metal rung ladders, steep cliff edge scrambles, and a few metal bridges over gaps! Enjoy views of the ocean and Sand Beach from the top. The Bowl, a small pond on the backside of the Beehive, is a good place to stop for a snack before returning to the trailhead. If you’re not comfortable with heights or exposure, the Beehive Trail is probably not the best option for you. You can’t go back once you start.
3. Great Head Trail
The Great Head Trail begins with a short bit of scrambling as it makes its way up the initial cliffs. Once on top of the formations, the trail levels out and loops around the peninsula’s coastline. Like the Ocean Path, there are numerous places where you can leave the trail to explore or relax on the rock formations. The trail’s easternmost point is Great Head, where the tall cliffs provide breathtaking views of the ocean below.
4. Mount Katahdin / Knife Edge Trail
Katahdin is the most difficult peak in Maine, and it stands alone. Katahdin has been one of the Northeast’s premier hiking destinations since the Appalachian Trail was completed in 1937, from Maine to Georgia and beyond. This loop takes on five notable summits in Maine’s fabled Baxter State Park. You’ll see cascading brooks, alpine lakes, breathtaking panoramic views, and miles of scrambling above tree-line.
5. 100-Mile Wilderness
A remarkable section of the Appalachian Trail is located near the end (or beginning) of the trail. The 100-mile Wilderness Trail, often done as a thru-hike, is one of the state’s most remote sections of trail.
You’ll wind your way up and over mountains, past lakes, and through vast forests. Other hikers may pass by, but this section of trail is much quieter than others in the state.
6. Gulf Hagas Gorge – Hikes In Maine
The legendary Gulf Hagas Gorge is located just off the Appalachian Trail and the 100-mile Wilderness. As one of the most popular areas, the trail can get very crowded, so plan accordingly.
This is a good option for families because you can make it longer or shorter depending on your preferences. As you walk this path, take in the brook, the forest, and the stunning waterfalls.
7. Jordan Pond, Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful in the United States. It’s the ideal spot for an afternoon picnic, a bike ride, or a day hike, with scenic views around every corner. Discover the park’s main attractions, including Jordan Pond House, Cadillac Mountain Summit, and Thunder Hole.
8. Morse Mountain to Seawall Beach
This coastal hike, just an hour north of Portland, takes you through the forest and out onto a sprawling beach. It is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful beaches in Maine, and it is well worth the two-mile hike to get there. This also means that, despite the hike, the beach can get quite crowded on hot summer days. However, the beach stretches for miles, so you’ll have no trouble finding some peace and quiet when you arrive. This is a fantastic family-friendly hike that concludes with a refreshing dip in the ocean!
9. Bradbury Mountain
Bradbury Mountain State Park, located just north of Freeport, is a popular hiking destination. With 18 miles of trail, it’s ideal for picnics, hiking, camping, and biking—the park is a hive of activity.
Though there are numerous trails in the park, a popular route is a small loop to the top of Bradbury Mountain, where you can enjoy beautiful views. It is especially lovely in the autumn, when the forest is awash in the changing colors of the leaves.
10. The Range Trail / Bigelow Mountain
To begin this hike from the East Flagstaff Road, download and follow the information for the hike up Little Bigelow. Hikers follow the A.T. southbound until it intersects with the Safford Brook Trail. Hikers can now use the information for the Safford Brook hike to reach Avery Peak. Hikers will descend into the Bigelow Col and have the option of hiking the Firewarden’s Trail. Hikers can download the section of the Bigelow Firewarden’s Trail, Appalachian Trail, and Horns Pond Trail Loop required to continue south on the A.T.
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