Clifton MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Clifton, Maine.
1. Chick Hill (Peaked Mountain)
EASY SUMMIT WITH VIEWS
Chick Hill, also known as Peaked Mountain, offers an easy and accessible hike with a round-trip distance of about 1.6 miles. The summit provides stunning panoramic views, making it a favorite for locals seeking a quick outdoor escape. The well-known trail is family- and dog-friendly, with parking conveniently available close to the trailhead.
2. Little Peaked and Big Peaked Mountains
CONJOINED MOUNTAIN LOOP
Little Peaked and Big Peaked Mountains form a nearly 3-mile loop, offering open summits and expansive views over the surrounding landscape. This moderate hike allows visitors to traverse both peaks either by footpath or by returning on the service road. The route is popular for its accessible terrain and rewarding scenery.
3. Eagle Bluff
SCENIC CLIFFSIDE TRAIL
Eagle Bluff features a short but steep hike leading to a dramatic cliff that attracts both hikers and rock climbers. The preserved area is managed by a local climbing group, but anyone can enjoy the quick ascent for rewarding views. The trail is a favorite for those looking for a challenging, scenic place to explore.
4. Parks Pond Bluff
CLIFFSIDE POND VIEWS
Parks Pond Bluff offers an easy half-mile walk to an open bluff with sweeping views of Parks Pond and nearby hills. This spot is also favored by climbers but makes an excellent short hike for all skill levels. The gentle ascent and scenic outlook make it a popular choice for families and casual hikers.
5. Bangor City Forest
EXTENSIVE URBAN TRAILS
Bangor City Forest offers more than 680 acres of woodlands with a network of well-maintained trails suitable for hiking, running, and biking. The area is popular for its peaceful natural setting just minutes from downtown Bangor. Visitors can explore various loop trails of different lengths and difficulties.
6. Orono Bog Boardwalk
UNIQUE BOG ECOSYSTEM
The Orono Bog Boardwalk provides a one-mile accessible path through a rare peat bog, showcasing unique plant and animal life. Educational signs line the boardwalk, helping visitors learn about this special ecosystem. The trail is flat and suitable for all ages, making it a great family outing.
7. Sunkhaze Meadows National Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE AND WETLAND TRAILS
Sunkhaze Meadows National Wildlife Refuge features several flat trails winding through wetlands, forests, and meadows rich with wildlife. Birdwatchers flock here to spot a diverse range of species in this protected natural area. Boardwalks and observation points make it easy to enjoy the scenic views and habitats.
8. Dedham Bald Mountain
ROCKY SUMMIT ASCENT
Dedham Bald Mountain offers a moderate, rocky hike leading to an open summit with panoramic views of lakes and forests. The loop trail is especially popular in the fall for its vibrant foliage. Adventurous hikers enjoy the rugged terrain and stunning vistas from the top.
9. Hirundo Wildlife Refuge
RIVERSIDE NATURE TRAILS
Hirundo Wildlife Refuge spans more than 2,400 acres and provides a variety of hiking trails along the Pushaw and Dead Rivers. The refuge focuses on conservation and environmental education, with opportunities for wildlife observation. Trails range from short walks to longer riverside journeys.
10. Great Pond Mountain Wildlands
REMOTE WILDERNESS HIKES
Great Pond Mountain Wildlands encompasses thousands of acres with a wide range of trails through forest, wetlands, and up to mountain summits. The area is great for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching. Hikers can enjoy both challenging ascents and peaceful walks in a pristine natural environment.