20 Best Trails and Hikes in Maine

1. Ocean Path Trail

Explore this famous trail in Maine that is evidenced by the number of people every day. The trail is mostly a flat one-way ocean path with picturesque spots and incredibly awesome ocean views including central attractions like Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff. The trail starts at the far end of the upper parking lot at Sand Beach, and then it meanders in a southerly direction.

A certain fee is liable to enter the place and early arrival is recommended to avoid the possible crowd and for a more enjoyable experience. The trail is dog-friendly with ample parking space and good-condition restrooms available. However, being an easy and popular destination, it may get crowded.

• Length: 7.2km
• Elevation gain: 114m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Estimated time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-Friendly: Yes

2. Jordan Pond Path

Jordan Pond Path traverses the shore of the Jordan Pond which is Acadia`s one of the most iconic landscapes and good hikes in Maine. Located near Mount Desert, Maine, it is an easy trail with great views and plenty of walking around the lake.

Early going is recommended to avoid the crowd and access the parking space as it may get difficult later because of the traffic and small lot.

A fee is required to enter the place and is crowded, especially on summer afternoons. You may also experience the crowd in the narrow wooded areas. Apart from that, the rail is easy peasy and enjoyable.

• Length: 5km
• Elevation gain: 13m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Estimated time: 55 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

3. Eastern Promenade Trail

It is a flat and fully paved trail with a slight incline at a part that is easily accessible and suitable for all ages. A wheelchair, stroller, or other mobility equipment can also access it. The trail also has benches and picnic tables for visitors.

It has easy parking with a small lot, but once it gets crowded, parking may be difficult. So, an early visit is recommended to avoid the crowd.

• Length: 5.6km
• Elevation gain: 29m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Estimated time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

4. Champlain Mountain and Beehive Loop Trail

Enjoy this best hike in Maine which moderately challenging trail near Bar Harbor, Maine. It offers insane views along with decent challenges, especially in the Champlain section which may be the reason it usually remains less crowded in comparison to the rest of the trail part.

On the other hand, Beehive is noticeably congested but still fully enjoyable and worth visiting. The medium-sized lot has free parking and is generally not crowded. A certain amount of fee will be charged as an entry fee.

• Length: 10.6km
• Elevation gain: 634m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 4 hours and 05 minutes
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No

5. Precipice Loop

Precipice Loop is a challenging and steep route that will especially test your guts as it has been made out of iron rungs and ladders over the exposed cliffs. But, once you reach the peak it rewards you with spectacular views of the Acadia National Park but you will need to pay a certain entry fee. Usually not crowded and easy to park.

You won't require hiking poles as you have to use your hands and legs and pull yourself ahead. This route is not for the faint of heart as well as some may find it scary. But, overall it is worth visiting a place that you will remember for a lifetime and quite enjoyable because of the challenges and path variety.

• Length: 3.4km
• Elevation gain: 323m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No

6. South Bubble Mountain

Experience this fun loop hike near Mount Desert, Maine. It highlights stunning views, and hiking clockwise is recommended for a better experience. Though it's a moderately challenging trail, for some, it may also be challenging because of the rocky sections, scrambles, and climbs.

You will be charged a certain amount for the entry fee, and parking might be difficult, especially on weekends, but apart from that, it's usually quiet and enjoyable.

• Length: 2.3km
• Elevation gain: 150m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: No

7. Great Head Trail

Explore this family-friendly route near Bar Harbor. Maine offers amazing coastal views. Plenty of spots are available to have a picnic, sit and relax. Some sections might be slippery and sandy rocks which is why suitable footwear is recommended.

It charges a certain amount as an entry fee. Despite the moderate difficulty, it's still a great option for families with kids. You can park in the lower Sand Beach parking area and they also allow dogs, but only on leash.

• Length: 2.6km
• Elevation gain: 92m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

8. Cadillac North Ridge Trail

The moderately challenging trail leads to the highest point both at Acadia National Park and on the eastern seaboard. This hike is also popular for the sunrise and sunset views. It has some rocky sections that require scrambling but in the end, you are rewarded with spectacular views from the top.

Conditions might get cold and windy at the summit. Entry fee is a must and there is also limited parking due to which visitors often face parking difficulty. Good condition bathrooms are available and dogs are allowed on leash.

• Length: 6.8km
• Elevation gain: 344m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 25 minutes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

9. Bar Island Trail

Bar Island Trail is a popular hiking trail near Bar Harbor, Maine. It's a short and easy family-friendly place that is approachable only before and after 1.5 hours of low tide. but still, you will have plenty of time to enjoy the scenic beauty of the trail.

It asks for the entry fee to explore this beautiful route, also some sections may be a bit slippery so appropriate footwear is recommended. Paid parking is available and dogs on leashes are permitted.

• Length: 3.1km
• Elevation gain: 57m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Estimated time: 45 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

10. Flying Mountain Trail

Flying Mountain hiking trails in Maine is an easy loop trail that is suitable for all ages. It includes a steep climb to reach the top of the small mountain offering insane views of the surrounding areas. However, it requires an entry fee to access those breathtaking views.

Green and lively conditions make the trip more beautiful and energized. The place is usually less crowded which is why there isn’t parking difficulty. Dogs are allowed but must be on a leash at all times for the safety of all.

• Length: 2.4km
• Elevation gain: 98m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

11. Step Falls Preserve Hiking Trail

Located near Newry, Maine, it is an easy and very popular trail among the hikers. Stunning waterfalls with great forest views are the main attractions of this place. Though an easy trail, it could be moderately challenging to some sections because of the tree routes and rocks.

Despite that, many families find it doable which is the reason it is marked as a kid-friendly route as well. Easy parking in a medium-sized lot and has good-condition bathrooms. During weekends and pleasant weather conditions, it could be busy.

• Length: 1.8km
• Elevation gain: 69m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Easy
• Estimated time: 35 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

12. Cliff Trail

The family-friendly hike with great views and is accessible for all ages. It consists of a shore walk along the tidal Strawberry Creek with an amazing view of the cascade and a resting area. A bit steep in parts and could be muddy depending on the recent weather conditions, especially after rain.

Man activities include birding and hiking and are usually less crowded which is why it has easy parking along with good-condition bathrooms. Dogs are permitted but should be kept on leash.

• Length: 3.5km
• Elevation gain: 80m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 55 minutes 
• Kid-friendly: Yes 
• Dog-friendly: Yes

13. Cascade Stream Gorge

A short and sweet trail that leads into the deep gorge of cascade stream offering access to several waterfalls and chutes. Hiking in the summer could be even more refreshing and cool. Picnic spots are available where you can enjoy your lunch in the lap of heavenly nature.

Exposed roots and rocky sections require caution apart from that it's a great family hike option too in a peaceful environment with great scenic beauty. Dogs can be taken following some safety precautions.

• Length: 1.4km
• Elevation gain: 38m
• Route type: Out and back
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 25 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

14. Blue Hill Mountain Loop

Enjoy this short and moderate hike that offers wonderful views of the Blue Hill Peninsula and Acadia National Park. Its well-marked trail starts from an open field taking through woods and staircases to the top. Some parts may have exposed roots, scramble, and rocky so, the visitors are advised to use caution.

Usually, a less crowded trail allows dogs but must be on a leash at all times. Typically August conditions are best suitable to explore this piece of beauty.

• Length: 3.2km
• Elevation gain: 173m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: Yes

15. Gorham Mountain Loop

The trail starts at the southwest corner of the Gorham Mountain parking lot taking you over the mountain ledges along the shore of the beaches. It features rocky terrains, especially along the ocean path, and can be slippery after the rain. Being a popular destination it may get crowded specifically later in the day or on weekends.

Despite the crowd, it is still easy to park and equally enjoyable. However, an entry fee is required. Overall, it is an average hike that can be visited by all ages. Dogs are permitted on leash only.

• Length: 4.8km
• Elevation gain: 178m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Estimated time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

16. Great Head Trail (Short Option)

The Great Head Trail features a mix of ocean views, rocky sections, and hidden history which begins at the end of the sand beach with granite steps. This family-friendly hike is located near Bar Harbor, Maine offering stunning coastal views.

Depending on weather conditions you may come across slippery sections and also the chances of bugs so, prepare yourself accordingly.

It provides free parking in a medium-sized parking lot and the trail isn’t usually crowded except for weekends and holidays. Dogs are allowed but please keep them on a leash at all times, hence, they charge an entry fee for entrance.

• Length: 2.6km
• Elevation gain: 92m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Moderately challenging
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

17. Giant's Stairs

Enjoy this easy but rewarding trail in Bailey Island, Maine which is a great option for all ages and can also be accessed through a stroller, wheelchair, or other mobility equipment having all-terrain tires. It is described as a short and beautiful place for scenic coastal views.

In this peaceful trail, there are several designated areas for parking including the Episcopal church, but please avoid parking there at the times when the church is in use. Dogs are permitted but it is mandatory to keep them on the leash all the time.

• Length: 1.1km
• Elevation gain: 12m
• Route type: Out and back
• Estimated time: 15 minutes
• Kid-friendly: Yes
• Dog-friendly: Yes

18. St. Sauveur and Acadia Mountain Loop

With steep scrambles and beautiful views, this is a demanding loop trail that lies in Mount Desert, Maine. Prepare yourself for some agile scramble and slipper sections, particularly after the rain but other than that it's a good condition route that appreciates your efforts rewarding with amazing sceneries.

A certain amount of fee is liable to enter the route that has easy-to-park spaces and good-condition bathrooms. Dogs are permitted but make sure you keep them on leash for the safety of all.

• Length: 6km
• Elevation gain: 369m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: Yes

19. Pemetic Mountain Loop

Featuring a variety of terrain, it is a challenging route that is not suitable for all. It requires climbing up a steep rocky section to reach the top but all the efforts are worth it in the end as it rewards you with breathtaking views that will blow your mind.

It may get muddy or slippery on some sections after the rain but overall the route is fair enough to provide you with that adventure. An entry fee is required as well and it has a paid parking system in a medium-sized lot. Generally not crowded and peaceful to enjoy.

• Length: 8.0km
• Elevation gain: 317m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: No

20. Burnt Meadow Mountain Trail

Last but not least, Burnt Meadow Mountain Trails in Maine is a gorgeous place that is a must-visit which is located in Brownfield, Maine. The Blue Trail has aggressive climbing through the woods and up rock faces, it is a difficult route that requires optimum efforts to reach the summit.

Green lush forests, rivers, and streams provide relief from the heat creating favorable hiking conditions.

Despite the difficulty, it still allows the dogs but must be kept on a leash and may need your assistance in some narrow or rocky sections. Parking isn’t difficult here and the trail is usually peaceful where you get to feel nature at its best.

• Length: 6.1km
• Elevation gain: 433m
• Route type: Loop
• Difficulty level: Challenging
• Kid-friendly: No
• Dog-friendly: Yes