Baring Plantation MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Baring Plantation, Maine.
1. Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE VIEWING AND TRAILS
Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge offers a network of peaceful, easy-to-follow walking trails through nearly 30,000 acres of protected forests, bogs, and ponds. The refuge features both wooded paths and wheelchair-accessible nature trails near the entrance, making it ideal for visitors of varying abilities. Wildlife sightings are common, and the wide tracks are also suitable for Nordic skiing in winter.
2. Bald Mountain Trail
SCENIC SUMMIT VIEWS
The Bald Mountain Trail, located within the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge, provides hikers with wooded terrain leading to panoramic summit views. The trail is suitable for most skill levels and is often less crowded than other popular Maine hikes. It's a prime spot for those seeking a quiet adventure with rewarding vistas.
3. Woodcock Trail
ACCESSIBLE NATURE WALK
Woodcock Trail is a short, paved, and wheelchair-accessible path located near the entrance of the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge. This easy 0.3-mile walk offers visitors close-up views of local flora and a tranquil forest setting. It's an excellent choice for families and those seeking a gentle stroll in nature.
4. Charlotte Trail
FLOWER-FILLED SECTIONS
Charlotte Trail in the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge features mown grassy paths and meanders through flower-filled fields and forest. The trail is flat and accessible, welcoming both casual walkers and avid hikers. Its peaceful setting is ideal for spotting wildlife and enjoying native plants.
5. Fairy Head Loop via Coastal Trail and Inland Trail
CHALLENGING COASTAL ADVENTURE
The Fairy Head Loop combines rugged coastal scenery and serene inland forests along a 9.2-mile route. Hikers encounter dramatic cliffs, ocean vistas, and peaceful wooded stretches for a full Downeast Maine experience. This trail is best suited for experienced hikers looking for varied terrain and fantastic views.
6. Amherst Mountains Community Forest
WILDERNESS AND RECREATION
Amherst Mountains Community Forest offers several recreation trails through remote woodlands, ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and even rustic camping. The network of trails provides a variety of options for different skill levels and outdoor interests. It's a top spot for those wanting to immerse themselves in Maine's natural beauty.
7. Barred Island Preserve
COASTAL ISLAND VIEWS
Barred Island Preserve features an easy 1.5-mile trail leading hikers to scenic views of Barred Island, sandy beaches, and Crockett Cove. At low tide, visitors can even walk out to Barred Island itself. The preserve is known for its tranquil forest and stunning coastal vistas.
8. Blue Hill Mountain Hayes & Service Trail
MODERATE MOUNTAIN CLIMB
The Hayes & Service Trail up Blue Hill Mountain is a moderately challenging hike, featuring stone steps and old-growth trees. The summit rewards hikers with expansive views over the region. It's a popular destination for those seeking a balance of exercise and scenic beauty.
9. Blue Hill Mountain Osgood Trail
STEEP FORESTED PATHWAY
The Osgood Trail is a well-maintained yet challenging route up Blue Hill Mountain, winding through rocky segments and dense forest. Hikers who reach the summit are treated to breathtaking vistas of coastal Maine. This trail is favored by experienced hikers in search of a tougher climb.
10. Black Point Brook Loop
DIVERSE FOREST EXPERIENCE
The Black Point Brook Loop, measuring 5.5 miles, offers a journey through lush forests and along the dramatic coastline of Cutler. Hikers enjoy varied landscapes, including wetlands and woodland, combined with the refreshing scent of ocean air. This loop is popular among those eager to experience both forest and sea in a single hike.