Brownfield MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Brownfield, Maine.
1. Burnt Meadow Mountain
CHALLENGING SCENIC SUMMIT
Burnt Meadow Mountain offers a moderately challenging hike up to a 1,570-foot summit with sweeping views of the surrounding hills and the White Mountains. The trail features shaded woods, exposed rock faces, and, in summer, wild blueberries along the way, making it enjoyable for both adults and motivated children. The hike is especially popular in fall for its vibrant foliage and in winter for panoramic views above the leafless trees.
2. Burnt Meadow & Stone Mountain Loop
VARIED TERRAIN ADVENTURE
The Burnt Meadow & Stone Mountain loop provides hikers with a mix of woods walking, open ledges, steep rock scrambles, and gradual ascents. This family-friendly trail is known for its diversity, including rocks to climb, water features, and options for kids and dogs to enjoy. Summer visitors often combine their hike with a swim and picnic at nearby Burnt Meadow Pond for a full day outing.
3. Gregory Sanborn Wildlife Management Area (Brownfield Bog)
WETLANDS WILDLIFE TRAILS
The Gregory Sanborn Wildlife Management Area, formerly known as Brownfield Bog, features a network of walking trails winding through the scenic Saco River wetlands. This area is popular for birdwatching and quiet nature walks, offering opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife in a peaceful setting. The flat terrain makes the trails accessible for hikers of all skill levels seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
4. Peary Mountain
EASY-TO-MODERATE FORESTED HIKE
Peary Mountain provides an easy to moderate trail experience starting just off Route 113 in Brownfield. The wooded path ascends gently and is suitable for a variety of hikers, including families and beginners. The summit delivers rewarding views of the surrounding forests and mountains without a strenuous climb.
5. Burnt Meadow Pond
LAKESIDE PICNIC & SWIM
Burnt Meadow Pond is a popular lakeside destination for hikers looking to relax after an outing on nearby trails. The pond offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the serene waterside environment. It's a perfect addition to a hiking day for families and groups seeking a combination of outdoor activities.
6. Pleasant Mountain
PANORAMIC WESTERN MAINE VIEWS
Pleasant Mountain, located just east of Brownfield in Bridgton, is the highest peak in southern Maine and a premier hiking destination. The well-maintained trail network leads to spectacular 360-degree vistas from the summit, especially appealing during foliage season. This mountain offers a range of routes suitable for both casual hikers and more experienced adventurers.
7. Jockey Cap Trail
SHORT HIKE WITH HISTORY
Jockey Cap Trail, situated in nearby Fryeburg, is a quick, family-friendly hike leading to a historic summit marker and panoramic views. The trail is renowned for its accessibility, making it ideal for beginning hikers or those seeking a brief outdoor excursion. At the top, visitors find an informative plaque detailing the mountains visible in the distance.
8. Baldface Circle Trail
HIGH-ELEVATION RUGGED LOOP
The Baldface Circle Trail, just west across the border in Chatham, NH, is a challenging and scenic route for experienced hikers. This rugged loop traverses open ledges and alpine environments, offering dramatic vistas of the White Mountains. The trail is best known for its open ridgelines and demanding elevation changes.
9. Evans Notch Trails
GATEWAY TO THE WHITE MOUNTAINS
Evans Notch serves as the southernmost notch in the White Mountain National Forest, featuring numerous trailheads for hikes of varying difficulty. Trails here provide access to stunning overlooks, tranquil forests, and remote mountain summits. Its proximity to Brownfield makes it a favored starting point for those exploring the eastern White Mountains.
10. White Mountain National Forest – Speckled Mountain Loop
EXTENSIVE FORESTED TRAIL SYSTEM
The Speckled Mountain Loop within the White Mountain National Forest offers hikers a moderately strenuous climb to expansive summit views. This area is prized for its diverse plant life, quiet woodlands, and opportunities for solitude. The mountain is a rewarding destination for those seeking a classic Maine hiking experience near Brownfield.