3 Must-Do Hidden Hiking Trails in Down East Maine

Written By Josh Ingram

Attention wildlife watchers and crowd loathers…this one is for YOU! Hike like a local on these Down East trails off the beaten path. The three hikes below all offer beautiful ocean views of the rugged Maine coastline with a fraction (of a fraction) of the people you’d see in nearby Acadia National Park. Drive a little further up (down 😉) the coast toward New Brunswick to find these secret spots, but just don’t tell too many people!

1. Bog Brook Cove

Starting off this list with a bang, Bog Brook Cove Preserve in Trescott truly has it all. This Maine Coast Heritage Trust property is known for its wild, rocky beaches, dramatic cliffs, and views to Great Manan Island in New Brunswick. You know what it’s not known for? People. There’s a good chance you see more seals than humans!

Use the Moose Cove entrance on Moose River Road and continue 1.1 miles until the parking area at the end. The road starts out paved but turns to gravel and crosses private blueberry barrens. To respect these gracious landowners, please do not pick their blueberries. 

Start walking on the universally accessible trail for .2 miles until you get to the overlook. You’ll pass the equally stunning Ridge Trail along the way on your left. Next, descend the stone stairs to the  cobblestone beach. Here’s where the magic happens: the iconic sound of the waves dragging the stones back and forth along the beach. At the end of the beach, there is a path leading up the the .7 miles Chimney Trail. Hang a left and follow the trail to the end. Make sure to walk the little side trails because that’s where the real views are…sit on a rocky outcrop and watch seals and the occasional harbor porpoise frolicking in the surf. Or just close your eyes and listen to the waves crashing on the cliffs right below your feet. 

You can head back the way you came or follow the wide, grassy Chimney Trail back to the access road and the parking lot. Bog Brook is definitely one to write home about, and is patently and authentically Maine.

2. Edgar Tennis Preserve

If you thought Bog Brook was remote, Edgar Tennis Preserve should be next on your list. An Island Heritage Trust preserve on Deer Isle, this trail network is perfect for hikers seeking a coastal walk away from crowds, but with plenty to see. 

There are 3.4 miles of hiking trails on the property leading to the old Davis Farmstead and cemetery, but follow the shore path for the best views. Imagine calm coves dotted with sailboats and waterfowl galore. Rafts of Eider Ducks, cormorants, bald eagles, barred owls and great blue herons are all seen regularly. While you’re looking for seals and otters just off the trail, be sure watch for the many tree roots waiting to trip you up…classic Maine 🙃! A highlight to discover is a spot colloquially called “Thinking Rock” (okay fine, maybe I just call it that, but trust me). Halfway along the shore path you’ll see a small side trail leading up a rock…climb up and you’ll be rewarded with a perfect view over Southeast Cove. 

There are 4 small parking areas and only room for about 10 cars, so please come back to enjoy a different time if full. Also, the road is often not plowed, so be very cautious in those winter months!

3. John B Mountain

John B Mountain may actually be a hill, but it packs more bang for buck than mountains triple its size! Do you lichen moss? Then this hike is for you! This Blue Hill Heritage Property in Brooksville is a mossy wonderland for huge swaths of the trail. So please keep your pup on its leash for this one…lichen takes YEARS to recover and we want everyone to enjoy this spongy wildland. From the top of the trail there is a short summit loop with a bench overlooking Orcutt Harbor towards Little Deer Isle. Follow the loop around and that’s where you can pack a picnic, sit on a rocky outcrop and watch the sunset with a distant Megunticook Mountain and Bald Peak providing a postcard-worthy backdrop. 

There is a small parking area with room for 8 cars. You can either go right up past the cemetery for a quick, steep walk through some seriously mossy terrain or take the meandering, more relaxed route down the path on the left. It may seem boring at first, but I suggest the latter! Follow the signs for the trail up the hill until you come to the first loop sign. Take the right loop and for even more scenic views along the way to the top. The first bench along the way is a great place to rest and take in the view before continuing to the top.

Josh Ingram https://www.instagram.com/the_real_maine_shorts_guy/
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