Amherst MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Amherst, Maine.
1. Bald Bluff Mountain
SCENIC FOREST OVERLOOK
Bald Bluff Mountain offers a 2.3-mile loop trail within the Amherst Mountains Community Forest, leading hikers to a striking overlook with sweeping views of the surrounding hills. While the summit is wooded, the trail provides a rewarding vantage point and a peaceful, remote hiking experience. The area is well-known for its tranquility and proximity to other trails in the forest.
2. Ducktail and Partridge Pond Trails
REMOTE POND TRAILS
The Ducktail and Partridge Pond Trails wind through the Amherst Mountains Community Forest, taking hikers past rocky woodlands, small brooks, and mossy glades. The well-marked network allows exploration of both ponds and features swimming ledges, making it a great place for scenic nature walks. With a combined hiking distance of about 3.3 miles, these trails provide peaceful immersion in northern Maine wilderness.
3. Halfmile Pond Trail
SECLUDED POND EXPERIENCE
Halfmile Pond Trail offers a quiet, forested walk that descends to a beautiful, secluded pond in the Amherst Public Lands. The trail begins on a footpath following stacked rock steps and features steep sections along its route. Hikers are rewarded with serene pond views and minimal crowds, perfect for those seeking solitude.
4. Amherst Mountains Community Forest
EXPANSIVE PUBLIC LANDS
The Amherst Mountains Community Forest encompasses nearly 5,000 acres of protected land, offering a network of trails traversing wooded hills and pristine water bodies. Besides Bald Bluff and the pond trails, the forest provides abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploration. This destination appeals to those looking for multi-trail adventures in a relatively undeveloped setting.
5. Partridge Pond and Ducktail Pond Loop
LOOP BETWEEN TWO PONDS
The Partridge Pond and Ducktail Pond Loop is a 3.4-mile route connecting two of Amherst's scenic ponds via marked forest trails and a logging road. The path offers a mix of wetlands, bridges, and gentle inclines, making it accessible for most hikers and pet-friendly. Lush glades and water features make this loop a favorite for nature lovers.
6. Great Pond Mountain Wildlands
SWEEPING MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Great Pond Mountain Wildlands, located in nearby Orland, features over 4,500 acres of conservation land with multiple hiking trails to panoramic mountain vistas. Trail options vary from easy walks to more challenging climbs, attracting hikers of all skill levels. The protected area also supports wildlife viewing and year-round outdoor recreation.
7. Tunk Mountain
ICONIC DOWNEAST SUMMIT
Tunk Mountain is a distinctive peak east of Amherst, renowned for its rugged hiking trail that climbs through forest and over granite ledges to stunning lake and ocean views. The 3-mile round trip hike is considered moderately challenging and popular among locals for its rewarding vistas. The area also connects to other trails in the Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land.
8. Black Mountain
STEEP ROCKY ASCENT
Black Mountain near Hancock offers a short but steep hiking trail culminating in expansive views of lakes and the surrounding forest. The rocky summit provides a dramatic payoff and is frequented by hikers seeking a moderate challenge. The trailhead is easily accessible from the Downeast Sunrise Trail corridor.
9. Schoodic Mountain
PANORAMIC COASTAL HIKE
Schoodic Mountain features a popular 2.6-mile round trip trail that rises above Donnell Pond to deliver sweeping views of the Downeast lakes and coastline. The route is moderately difficult and well-marked, making it a top choice for hikers in the region. Its summit attracts both casual walkers and adventure seekers hoping for spectacular vistas.
10. Donell Pond Public Reserved Land
LAKES AND LONG TRAILS
Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land offers a large tract of conserved wilderness with multiple hiking trails, pond access, and opportunities for swimming or camping. The area encompasses prominent mountains such as Tunk and Schoodic, along with miles of shoreline. This destination is ideal for hikers who enjoy mixed terrain and lakeside scenery.