I don’t need to convince you how awesome Maine hiking trails are!
With beautiful jagged peaks, lush forests, shimmering lakes, and panoramic views, they’re a hiker’s dream come true. And they’re great exercise.
The state of Maine features a wide range of mountains and nature trails for hikers.
So whether you’re a first-time hiker, experienced climber, or a veteran, there’s a hike that fits your skill level.
With so many Maine hiking trails, it’s difficult to know which to choose, so we’ve narrowed down the best of the best.
Here are the top 10 Maine hiking trails arranged from easy to difficult skill levels, for you to begin planning your day, week or month of adventure.
Best Maine Hiking Trails Not to Miss
1. Blueberry Mountain
You’ll find 360-degree views of the High Peaks region on this uphill climb. Some areas are steep, but it’s not too difficult.
At 2,890 feet in elevation, the views at the top take your breath away. This climb is a hidden gem. Make sure to pick some blueberries during the season.
Locale: Weld, Maine
Challenge Level: Beginner
Distance: 2.4 miles
2. Jordan Pond Shore Path
This stunning climb in Acadia National Park offers prime views of beautifully carved mountains overlooking Jordan Pond.
You’ll need good hiking boots for the rugged patches. For an easier climb, turn right at the pond. The north end has more jagged spots.
Locale: Acadia National Park
Challenge Level: Beginner
Distance: 3.2 miles
3. Mt. Kineo
Mt. Kineo slopes are gentle on the northwest and get steeper in the southeast. Take the Carriage Trail if you’re new to hiking.
This trail parallels Moosehead Lake on the peninsula’s western edge and leads to Hardscrabble Point.
The trail intersects with the North Trail, an intermediate level trail if you’re up for the challenge.
Locale: Moosehead Lake
Challenge Level: Beginner
Distance: 2.2 miles
4. West Quoddy Head Coastal Trail
The Coastal Trail is four miles round trip. It covers some steep terrain.
Hikers enjoy watching the rushing tides at Greenpoint. Be sure to stop there.
You’ll pass the intriguing Gulliver’s Hole, a narrow gorge formed when a fault eroded in volcanic rock.
Locale: Quoddy National Park
Challenge Level: Intermediate
Distance: 1.3 miles
5. Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail
This trail located on the southern ridge of Cadillac Mountain is a beauty. Enjoy spectacular views of the sea below.
As you ascend the ridge, you’ll go through a forested area. You’ll reconnect to the ridge at Eagle’s Crag Loop Trail. Bring your dog, but keep him on a leash. Park rules.
Locale: Acadia National Park
Challenge Level: Intermediate
Distance: 7.1 miles
6. Mount Megunticook Trail
The sweeping views of the bay make this trail the gem of Camden Hills.
While the trail is only a mile hike, the views are worth it. You’ll climb 1,000 vertical feet. The hike takes an hour.
Locale: Camden Hills State Park
Challenge Level: Intermediate
Distance: 1.1 miles
7. Beehive Trail
This challenging trail is steep. It’s not recommended for kids.
Make sure you have boots with good traction for your climb. You’ll start on the Bowl Trail.
The north has a gradual slope, but the south has a really steep cliff. This trail is dangerous to climb during the winter months.
Locale: Acadia National Park
Challenge Level: Advanced
Distance: 2 miles
8. Bigelow Range Traverse
The traverse features rocky peaks and takes you through beautiful emerald ridges, so pack your camera or smartphone.
Bigelow is an eight to ten-hour hike. Make sure to have plenty of water.
Trek poles, good hiking boots, and trail runners are recommended.
Locale: Bigelow Mountain Preserve
Distance: 16.3 miles
Challenge Level: Advanced
9. Knife Edge Trail
Not for beginners. This rocky hike climbs 4,902 feet.
Saddle Trail is the least difficult and Cathedral Trail is the hardest to hike.
The trip can take about eight hours. Make sure you have boots with good traction and the best hiking gear. Load up on water in your reservoir.
It’s best not to hike this mountain on severe windy days and in bad weather.
Locale: Baxter State Park
Distance: 1.1 miles
Challenge Level: Advanced
10. 100 Mile Wilderness
The first thing you see is a huge sign that warns you this is the most challenging trail in all the Appalachian Mountains.
It reads don’t hike this unless you have “10 days of supplies and are fully equipped.”
You’ll see water all around in the mountain valleys while you hike across streams and rivers. Crossing the streams can be dangerous. Don’t do this hike alone.
Locale: Monson, Maine
Distance: 99.4 miles
Challenge Level: Advanced
Have you hiked any of these Maine hiking trails? Let us know about it in the comment section. We’d love to hear about your experiences.
