Easy Trails Recommended By a Local
As an outdoor enthusiast, I find that Maine is a treasure trove of trails, offering something for every hiker. You don’t have to summit Katahdin to appreciate the beauty of Maine’s forests and paths. My adventures range from secluded trails in the 100-Mile Wilderness to picturesque city river walks and rugged coastal routes. No matter where I roam, Maine’s trails truly nourish my heart and soul.
Here are five hikes I highly recommend for those who enjoy a more casual, lower key hike in the woods and breathtaking views:
1. Step Falls
Arrive early to beat the crowds at this short hike featuring waterfalls, swimming holes, natural slides, and fantastic views!
Nestled just outside of Grafton Notch, Step Falls offers a well-marked trail that gently follows Wight Brook as it cascades over open ledges and into natural pools, creating perfect spots for swimming and sunbathing. The views of the Western Maine mountains are breathtaking, especially as you climb to the upper sections of the trail where it gets moderately steeper. With plenty of scenic places to pause along the way, this hike offers an ideal mix of short, easytrekking and rewarding waterslides.
Due to its popularity, especially on warm days, it’s best to arrive early to enjoy the serenity. Managed by the Mahoosuc Land Trust, this is a dog-friendly trail, so long as your four-legged friend stays on a leash.
Location: Newry, Maine
Distance: 1.1 miles (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Easy
Trailkeeper: Mahoosuc Land Trust
2. Beech Hill Preserve
Explore a historic stone hut atop a hill with panoramic views—a must-visit for nature lovers, history buffs, and anyone seeking a perfect day outdoors!
Beech Hill Preserve is one of the most picturesque conservation lands in the western Penobscot Bay area, offering stunning, wide-ranging views of Penobscot Bay, the Camden Hills, and the St. George Peninsula. At the summit, you’ll discover a distinctive stone hut with a sod roof, built in 1914 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places—truly a unique destination for history and nature lovers alike.
Hikers can choose from two main trails: the Summit Road Trail, an easy path that follows an old farm road bordered by a historic stone wall, and the Woods Loop Trail, rated moderate, which winds through a mix of young forest and open fields, with two routes to reach the top. Be aware, this spot is especially popular on weekends!
The summit has been protected since 2003, thanks to the Coastal Mountains Land Trust and generous support from local organizations. Dogs on leashes are welcome to join in on this scenic hike.
Location: Rockport
Distance: 1.5 miles (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Easy
Trailkeeper: Coastal Mountains Land Trust
3. ClifF Trail
Check out this Harpswell gem featuring waterfront strolls, fairy houses, and breathtaking views from 150-foot cliffs.
The Cliff Trail in Harpswell offers an inviting 2.3-mile loop with an accessible half-mile section along Strawberry Creek, complete with beautiful waterfront views. Further into the hike, you’ll encounter sweeping vistas of Long Reach from dramatic 150-foot cliffs, where the bay extends from Casco Bay deep into the forested landscape.
The trail features a series of switchbacks winding through rocky outcrops and mossy knolls, guiding hikers up and down the ridge along the cliffside. There’s a perfect spot at the top for resting on the open rock ledge, ideal for taking in the view and having a snack. Along the way, don’t miss the enchanting fairy house zones—visitors can add their own little creation or wander through and enjoy the tiny village.
For safety, take care around the Long Reach cliffs, as the drop-offs are steep and require caution, especially with young children. Parking is available at the Harpswell Town Office on Mountain Road, and the trail is well-maintained by the town, making it a popular choice for locals.
Location: Harpswell
Distance: 2.2 miles (Loop)
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Trailkeeper: Town of Harpswell
4. Morse Mountain
Discover a secluded beach with dunes, rock ledges, and island vistas.
This trail offers a unique blend of scenic mountain views and a peaceful beach walk. The route follows a wide, private access road made of asphalt, crushed stone, and compacted earth, making it easy for groups to walk together and chat along the way. As you hike, you’ll pass through picturesque marshlands and catch views of nesting sites for endangered species like the piping plover and least tern, as well as an array of rare plants, mosses, and lichens.
At the trail’s end, a stunning, secluded beach awaits, with sand dunes, rock ledges, and island views along a long, unspoiled stretch of shoreline. Be mindful of the tides, as some areas flood up to thigh-high during high tide.
Managed by Bates College on behalf of the Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area Corporation, this private property prioritizes conservation. Dogs are not permitted in any season, and visitors should check parking availability online at bmmparking.com.
Location: Phippsburg
Distance: 4.0 miles (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Easy/Moderate
Trailkeeper: Bates College
5. Hawk Mountain Lookout
A quick, rewarding, and uncrowded hike with a glimpse of Mount Washington.
Hawk Mountain may not be the tallest peak at only 100ft, but it rewards hikers with breathtaking views that make the climb worthwhile. The trail starts off resembling an old logging road, offering a quick and enjoyable hike with a moderate incline. As you ascend, you'll be treated to sweeping panoramic vistas of the Lakes Region and Oxford Hills, with Mount Washington visible on clear days.
The trail primarily consists of dirt and loose rocks until you reach the forested sections leading to the stunning rock ledge overlook. Keep an eye out for wild blackberries along the way—an uncommon treat compared to Maine’s usual blueberries!
Parking is available in a nearby residential area, so please be respectful of the local residents and utilize designated spots. Although the parking area is small, the trail is typically uncrowded, making it a fantastic option for a sunrise or sunset hike. This beautiful area is managed by the Western Foothills Land Trust and the town of Waterford. Remember, dogs must be kept on a leash while on the trail.
Location: Waterford
Distance: 1.0 miles (Loop)
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailkeeper: Western Foothills Land Trust
While these trails are some of my favorites, Maine is home to countless stunning hikes, so it’s wise to have a backup plan in case your first choice is crowded or fully booked. Additionally, please take a moment to familiarize yourself with Leave No Trace principles (like "Pack it in, pack it out") to help protect the natural beauty and wildlife of these areas. Responsible outdoor practices ensure that these trails remain pristine for everyone to enjoy.
—Christina Monagle
