Top Hiking Trails in Maine

There’s more to Maine than lobsters; it’s also home to some of the best hiking in the northeast US, with thousands of miles of trails suitable for various skill levels.

For the adventurous explorer, there are plenty of backcountry multi-day hikes available. However, beginners who just want to take in the beautiful coastline will find plenty to enjoy as well. From coastal treks with stunning views of lighthouses over rocky ledges to breathtaking hikes in Maine’s legendary wilderness, lace up your hiking boots and discover why Maine is known as Vacationland.

1. Beehive Trail, Acadia National Park

Best for a unique hiking experience
1.5 miles, 2–3 hours, strenuous

Acadia National Park offers incredible mountain peaks to climb for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Maine’s dramatic coastline. The Beehive Trail is one of the most unique trails in Acadia National Park, requiring hikers to climb iron rung ladders bolted to granite.

The trailhead begins on a gradual path through the forest, leading to granite stairs, iron bridges, and finally, iron rung ladders over boulders. Reaching the summit at 520ft rewards you with stunning views of Sand Beach. Descend via the Bowl Trail, where you can cool off in an alpine pond situated between Beehive and Gorham Mountain.

2. Mount Katahdin, Baxter State Park

Best for experienced hikers
5.2 miles, 8–12 hours, very strenuous

Known as the “Greatest Mountain” by the Penobscot, Mt Katahdin is situated in the heart of Baxter State Park. Standing at 5,269 ft, it is Maine’s tallest peak and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Trekking Mt Katahdin typically takes 8 to 12 hours and is highly demanding.

The 5.2-mile Hunt Trail is popular for reaching Baxter Peak, featuring picturesque views of Maine’s foothills and Katahdin Stream Falls. For well-prepared hikers, the famed 1.1-mile traverse of Knife Edge will challenge your fear of heights, but you’ll earn respect from the locals.

3. Gulf Hagas, Brownville

Best hike for going for a swim
8.2 miles, 5–6 hours, moderate

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Gulf Hagas on the West Branch of the Pleasant River features a three-mile-long rock canyon that towers 500 ft above the river. This trail can be accessed through Katahdin Iron Works Road in Brownville, part of the Appalachian Trail corridor.

After the parking area, you’ll need to ford the varying water levels of the river. You will then walk along the Appalachian Trail through 150-year-old white pines before connecting to the Gulf Hagas loop. Choose the Rim Trail at the next intersection to face multiple waterfalls as you ascend. On hot summer days, this area offers excellent swimming opportunities.

4. Mt Battie, Camden Hills State Park

Best for the family
1.1 miles, 1–2 hours, moderate

Mt Battie, located in Camden Hills State Park, is one of Maine’s most iconic hikes. The 1.1-mile trail is short but steep, requiring some scrambling, making it manageable for individuals of all ages. At 780 ft, the summit provides stunning views of Camden and Penobscot Bay. Climb the stone tower at the summit for even better vistas.

5. Fairy Head Loop, Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land

Best for nature enthusiasts
10.4 miles, 7–8 hours, difficult

Overlooking the Bay of Fundy, Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land spans over 12,334 acres of wilderness in Downeast Maine. Known as the Bold Coast, this nature preserve offers unique experiences across a variety of Maine’s coastal ecosystems. Bring your camera, as you won’t want to miss the sunrise over the rugged coastline.

The Fairy Head Loop spans 10.4 miles and provides almost four miles of shorefront hiking before moving inland through meadows, forests, and grass marshes. Wildlife is abundant in this area, and camping spots are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

6. Tumbledown Mountain, Weld

Best hike for joining the crowd
3.7 miles, 3–4 hours, moderate

Tumbledown Mountain in Weld is among Maine’s most popular day hikes. Although it may not be the highest peak or the one with the best views, it boasts spectacular features, including an alpine pond at 2,800 ft and 700 ft granite cliffs overlooking the pond.

The easiest way to reach the pond is via the Brook Trail, which features a 1,600 ft elevation gain. Tumbledown Ridge Trail leads to East Peak before descending through a saddle to the West Peak summit.

The Loop Trail is the most challenging and suitable only for experienced hikers, as it entails steep sections and climbing metal rungs through boulders to reach the summit. Pack a swimsuit and a picnic to enjoy a peaceful moment on the granite summit.

7. 100-Mile Wilderness, Central Maine

Best for experienced multi-day hikers
100 miles, 5–10 days, strenuous

Spanning 100 miles from Monson to the southern border of Baxter State Park, the 100-Mile Wilderness is the “wildest section” of the Appalachian Trail, known for its challenging navigation and traverse. Best hiked from late June through July, this trail is a bucket-list journey for seasoned and adventurous hikers.

Hikers should pack all necessary supplies and anticipate trekking for 8 to 12 hours each day. Over this 100-mile span, expect to climb almost 15,000 ft. While this hike can be arduous, it offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Maine’s pristine wilderness and diverse wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for moose!

8. Bigelow Mountain, Bigelow Preserve

Best for elite hikers
16.3 miles, 8–10 hours, strenuous

Experience one of Backpacker Magazine’s hardest day hikes in America with the Bigelow Mountain Traverse. This 16.3-mile journey via the Appalachian Trail features stunning views of Maine’s western mountains and nearby Flagstaff Lake.

This point-to-point hike requires car arrangements at both ends. The ascent of Little Bigelow begins gradually before steepening as you reach its summit. The next 6.4 miles involve strenuous climbs and descents along Bigelow Mountain until Avery Peak at 4,088 ft. More ups and downs await until the end. Camping platforms are available just below Avery Peak in Bigelow Col for those wishing to extend their hike into a weekend adventure.

9. Southwest Ridge Trail, Pleasant Mountain

Best for stunning views
5.8 miles, 3–4 hours, moderate

Just an hour’s drive from Portland, Pleasant Mountain is southern Maine’s tallest mountain at 2,006 ft. Managed by Loon Echo Land Trust, Pleasant Mountain features six trails that span over 10 miles. The open summit provides stunning views, and if you’re lucky, you might spot Mt Washington in New Hampshire.

The 3.6-mile Ledges Trail is the most popular route to the summit. However, on beautiful summer days, this trail tends to be crowded. If you desire a more peaceful experience, the 5.8-mile roundtrip Southwest Ridge Trail is a superb alternative. Pack a picnic lunch and unwind on the granite ledges at the summit.

10. Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park

Best for watching the sunrise
2.2 miles, 2–4 hours, moderate

Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is one of the first places in the US to witness the sunrise. While many opt to drive to the summit, hiking offers a relatively easy experience compared to other hikes on Mount Desert Island. The open granite peak allows for panoramic views of Bar Harbor, Mount Desert Island, and the Atlantic Ocean.

The optimal time to hike is in the early morning, allowing you to reach the summit in time for the sunrise. Equip yourself with a headlamp and embark on the 2.2-mile Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail to the 1,528-ft summit under the stars. Remember to pack your favorite morning beverage!

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