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Writer's pictureGerry Caron

Top 10 Must-Hike Trails in Northern Maine: Epic Views, Waterfalls & Mountain Adventures


river's edge with many rocks and boulders and mountains in the distance

Top 10 Must-Hike Trails in Northern Maine - Adventure Awaits

Maine is home to some of the most stunning trails in the northeastern U.S., offering outdoor enthusiasts unparalleled views, challenging terrains, and unique natural landscapes. From rugged mountain ascents to tranquil ponds and powerful waterfalls, Maine's trails showcase the state's diverse beauty. Whether you're an avid hiker seeking a tough summit or a casual explorer wanting a serene forest walk, these top trail spots are not to be missed.


Here’s an expanded look at the 10 must-hike trails in northern Maine, along with helpful contact information for planning your adventure:


1. Mount Katahdin (Baxter State Park)

  • Why Visit?: As Maine’s tallest peak and the end of the Appalachian Trail, Mount Katahdin is a challenging climb with panoramic views. Its Knife Edge Trail is particularly famed for being both exhilarating and rewarding. Baxter State Park itself is a haven for wildlife and unspoiled wilderness.

  • Highlights: Knife Edge Trail, Chimney Pond, and Katahdin Lake.

  • Contact: Baxter State Park Headquarters

    Phone: (207) 723-5140

    Website: Baxter State Park


2. Precipice Trail (Acadia National Park)

  • Why Visit?: Thrilling and steep, this trail climbs up cliffs using iron rungs and ladders, offering jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Frenchman Bay. Not for the faint-hearted, but rewarding for those who seek an adrenaline rush.

  • Highlights: Cliffside ascent, panoramic ocean views.

  • Contact: Acadia National Park Visitor Center

    Phone: (207) 288-3338

    Website: Acadia National Park


3. Gulf Hagas (Katahdin Iron Works)

  • Why Visit?: Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Gulf Hagas features a stunning gorge with waterfalls, swimming holes, and rugged trails. This area is perfect for those seeking a remote, challenging hike with plenty of scenic rewards.

  • Highlights: Screw Auger Falls, Buttermilk Falls, gorge views.

  • Contact: Katahdin Iron Works Checkpoint

    Phone: (207) 965-8135

    Website: Gulf Hagas


  • Why Visit?: Tumbledown is famous for the serene alpine pond near its summit. It’s a moderately challenging hike, and the pond offers a peaceful spot to relax amidst beautiful mountain views.

  • Highlights: Tumbledown Pond, summit vistas, diverse trails.

  • Contact: Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands

    Phone: (207) 585-2347

    Website: Tumbledown Mountain


5. Moxie Falls (The Forks)

  • Why Visit?: This family-friendly trail leads to one of Maine’s tallest waterfalls, plunging nearly 90 feet. The short, easy trail makes it perfect for casual hikers and nature lovers.

  • Highlights: Spectacular waterfall, forested trail.

  • Contact: Moxie Falls Scenic Area

    Phone: (207) 663-4466

    Website: Moxie Falls


6. Bigelow Mountain Range (Carrabassett Valley)

  • Why Visit?: Bigelow Range offers some of Maine’s most stunning and difficult hikes, with routes leading to West Peak and Avery Peak. The Appalachian Trail runs through this area, providing scenic views of Flagstaff Lake and the surrounding mountains.

  • Highlights: West Peak, Avery Peak, Flagstaff Lake views.

  • Contact: Maine Appalachian Trail Club

    Phone: (207) 512-5550

    Website: Bigelow Mountain Range


7. Jordan Pond Path (Acadia National Park)

  • Why Visit?: This easy loop around the crystal-clear Jordan Pond offers picturesque views of the Bubbles Mountains. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely hike, photography, and picnicking.

  • Highlights: Jordan Pond waters, views of the Bubbles.

  • Contact: Acadia National Park Visitor Center

    Phone: (207) 288-3338

    Website: Acadia National Park


  • Why Visit?: Grafton Notch boasts rugged terrain and diverse trails, including the Eyebrow Loop and the challenging Old Speck Mountain trail. The park’s geological features and beautiful vistas make it a must-see for adventurers.

  • Highlights: Old Speck Mountain, Screw Auger Falls, Eyebrow Loop.

  • Contact: Grafton Notch State Park Office

    Phone: (207) 824-2912

    Website: Grafton Notch State Park


  • Why Visit?: Camden Hills offers trails with stunning views of Penobscot Bay and the surrounding islands. Mount Battie is the most popular trail, with moderate paths suitable for all hikers.

  • Highlights: Mount Battie, Ocean Lookout Trail, Penobscot Bay views.

  • Contact: Camden Hills State Park

    Phone: (207) 236-3109

    Website: Camden Hills State Park


10. Little Moose Mountain (Moosehead Lake Region)

  • Why Visit?: A quieter, lesser-known hike with serene views of Moosehead Lake, this trail is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. It offers moderate terrain and a peaceful experience.

  • Highlights: Moosehead Lake views, forested paths, peaceful summit.

  • Contact: Little Moose Public Reserved Land

    Phone: (207) 287-3200

    Website: Little Moose Mountain


These trails offer an excellent mix of breathtaking views and diverse hiking experiences, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in Maine's beautiful wilderness.


What to Do in Moosehead Lake

Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.

  • Boating: Explore the lake's serene waters.

  • Hiking: Explore the the wilderness.

  • Fishing: Discover prime fishing spots.

  • Camping: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.

  • Local Attractions: Learn about must-see sights in the region.


  • Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.


Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit

Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.


Ultimate Outdoor Getaway

With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.


Book Your Stay

Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout our Rockwood Moose River cabin!



Be sure to check out the nearby trails and enjoy some of the local dining options in Rockwood and Greenville to round out your visit. Whether you're after a rugged mountain climb or a tranquil lakeside stroll, these hikes deliver unforgettable experiences.

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