Canaan MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Canaan, Maine.
1. Lake George Regional Park
LAKESIDE TRAILS AND RECREATION
Lake George Regional Park features over 10 miles of easy to moderate trails winding through 320 acres along the shores of Lake George. Visitors enjoy scenic forest paths, access to freshwater beaches, and diverse opportunities for hiking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. This popular spot is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and natural beauty year-round.
2. Canaan Bog
UNIQUE KETTLE BOG HABITAT
Canaan Bog is a rare wetland preserve featuring a large floating moss layer and an uncommon kettle bog ecosystem. Accessible primarily in winter, the 1.8-mile loop trail offers opportunities for snowshoeing, skiing, and wildlife observation in a serene natural setting. Managed by Somerset Woods Trustees, the bog is prized for its distinctive landscape and biodiversity.
3. Houston Brook Falls
PICTURESQUE WATERFALL TRAIL
Houston Brook Falls offers a short, scenic hike to a stunning 32-foot waterfall that plunges into the Kennebec River. The trail is easily accessible and perfect for families or casual hikers, providing both relaxation and photo opportunities. The falls are a favorite local destination for picnics and summer outings.
4. Orono Bog Boardwalk
ACCESSIBLE WETLAND WALKWAY
The Orono Bog Boardwalk provides a 1.5-mile accessible path through one of Maine's unique peat bogs, allowing visitors to explore rare plants and spot local wildlife. The boardwalk begins from the Bangor City Forest and features educational kiosks along the route. This well-maintained trail is ideal for nature lovers and families seeking a leisurely walk.
5. Mount Megunticook
ICONIC COASTAL SUMMIT
Mount Megunticook, located in Camden Hills State Park, is one of Maine's most popular hikes, offering a 2.9-mile trail to panoramic summit views of Penobscot Bay and the surrounding countryside. The forested route is well-marked, moderately challenging, and highly rewarding for hikers of all skill levels. The summit's scenic vistas make it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
6. Moxie Falls
IMPRESSIVE TALL WATERFALL
Moxie Falls is renowned for its 90-foot drop, making it one of Maine's highest and most dramatic waterfalls, accessed by a 1.9-mile easy hike. The wide, family-friendly trail winds through forest before culminating in several viewpoints of the powerful falls and surrounding gorge. Moxie Falls is a top choice for waterfall chasers and day hikers alike.
7. River Loop Trail
WOODLAND AND RIVER VIEWS
The River Loop Trail in Canaan offers a 0.7-mile walk through mixed woods with gentle elevation changes and scenic river vistas. This peaceful trail is suitable for all ages and connects with other routes within the Lake George Regional Park trail network. It's a great choice for a quick nature escape close to town.
8. Hawkes Trail
SHORT NATURE TRAIL
Hawkes Trail is a 0.5-mile path marked by pink blazes, meandering through the wooded areas near Canaan. With mild elevation changes, it offers a brief but enjoyable hike ideal for beginners or those looking for a quick outdoor walk. The trail connects with others to create longer hiking options in the area.
9. Overlook Trail
QUICK HIKE, GREAT VIEWS
The Overlook Trail is a short, 0.2-mile route with a steady climb leading to a scenic viewpoint over the local landscape. Ideal for those seeking a brief outing with a scenic payoff, this trail is accessible and connects easily to other nearby paths. It is especially popular for sunrise or sunset hikes.
10. Deer Trail
WOODED LOOP HIKE
Deer Trail is a 0.5-mile loop winding through local forests, providing a tranquil escape in the Canaan area. The trail features modest elevation shifts and is ideal for wildlife observation, particularly deer. It offers a peaceful, immersive experience in the region's woodlands.