There is a vast network of hiking opportunities in Maine stemming from 282 miles of the Appalachian Trail traversing the state and the hiking trails that are part of Maine’s 48 state parks and historic sites managed by the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation & Forestry. Here are some of the best summer hikes in Central Maine for you, your friends, and your family to enjoy this year.
Shorter Day Hikes
Moxie Falls Trail: The Moxie Falls Trail is an easy 1.7 mile trail that leads to a spectacular waterfall in Central Maine. The hike begins flat and smooth on a gravel path and transitions to wooden walkways and steps as you approach the falls. Be careful as you grow closer to the water as it can be slippery. This Somerset County hike is perfect for the whole family!
Shore Line Trail: The Shore Line Trail overlooking Moosehead Lake in Lily Bay State Park is another easy hike and a family favorite. This 1.7 mile trail is smooth and wide, but do pay attention. There will always be obstacles when you are hiking. There is a half mile section with rocks and exposed tree roots to navigate.
Longer Day Hikes
Caribou Mountain: This hike is worth the trip! A short drive from Sebago, Maine will bring you to the trailhead in Franklin County Maine. The mountain is on the Canada-United States border. The Caribou Muddy Brook Loop is a 7 mile hike with a steep ascent on Caribou Trail with waterfall crossings and slippery rocks. This hike will take an experienced hiker approximately 4 hours to complete. It is considered moderately challenging.
Gulf Hagas Rim Trail: Often called the “Grand Canyon of Maine'' the rugged network includes 11.8 miles of trails. You can enjoy the quarter mile Screw Auger Falls Trail for a quick walk to the breathtaking 23 foot waterfall along Bear River just to tickle your fancy. For a longer day hike, the Gulf Hagas Rim Trail and Pleasant River Tote loop will take the hiker through 8.2 miles of forest and waterfalls to enjoy a variety of terrain including rock scrambles. Poles are recommended to help keep balance on the slippery rocks. The 8.2 mile loop is considered moderately challenging and takes approximately 3.5 hours to complete.
Mount Blue Trail: This short but challenging 3.2 mile round trip hike takes you straight up the mountain on a steep trail. It is considered an advanced hike. There is an observation tower at the summit offering 360º mountaintop views. Hikers caution against bringing small dogs on this hike, as the rockiest and steepest part of the trail can prove difficult for your smaller canine hiking companion. This challenging hike takes approximately 2.75 hours to complete.
Little Bigelow: This 6.2 mile round trip hike to the top of Little Bigelow Mountain is both challenging and family friendly. It will take you along one of the more accessible sections of the Appalachian Trail in Maine to the 3,040 foot summit of Little Bigelow. The hike is considered moderate to advanced and will take a family a little over 6 hours to complete (start early and plan accordingly).
Meservier & Associates has been serving Maine home buyers and sellers with a collection of resources, agents, and market data since 1988. The rich tapestry of wilderness trails will be available to you all year long when you find a home and move to Central Maine. We look forward to working with you. Contact us today!
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