Cushing MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Cushing, Maine.
1. Pleasant Point Nature Preserve
PENINSULA WOODLAND WALK
Pleasant Point Nature Preserve is a 65-acre woodland area situated on a quiet peninsula in Cushing. The preserve features a 1.5-mile narrow trail winding through dense balsam fir forests, lichen-covered rock ledges, and a scenic wetland boardwalk. Hikers can enjoy peaceful natural surroundings and occasional tricky footing amid mossy knolls and exposed ledges.
2. Langlais Art Preserve
ART AND NATURE TRAILS
Langlais Art Preserve marries outdoor art installations with miles of hiking trails on a 90-acre landscape in Cushing. Visitors can view numerous sculptures by Bernard Langlais while traversing both an ADA-accessible trail and a 2.3-mile woodland path. The preserve provides a unique setting where creativity and natural beauty intertwine.
3. Cross Cushing Nature Preserve
MOSSY FOREST LOOP
Cross Cushing Nature Preserve features a 1.6-mile loop trail through lush, moss-carpeted forest with a canopy of coastal spruce and pine. The hike ascends Robbins Hill and circles back past typical shoreland habitats and enchanting, mist-shrouded woodlands. Adventurers should prepare for some steep, single-track sections and exposed roots and rocks.
4. Thomaston Town Forest
MULTI-USE WOODED TRAILS
Thomaston Town Forest provides wooded hiking trails suitable for all skill levels just inland from Cushing. The forest offers a peaceful environment for walking, birding, and exploring varied natural terrain. Its proximity to local towns makes it a convenient destination for a short woodland escape.
5. Beech Hill Preserve
HILLTOP PANORAMIC VIEWS
Beech Hill Preserve in Rockport is celebrated for its sweeping views of Penobscot Bay and its iconic stone-and-cedar hut at the summit. The main trail winds through blueberry fields up to a broad hilltop, making it a local favorite during summer. Nature lovers can also spot diverse bird species in this open conservation area.
6. Georges Highland Path
EXTENSIVE TRAIL SYSTEM
Georges Highland Path is a regional trail network spanning more than 50 miles across the midcoast, accessible from various trailheads near Cushing. The path traverses forests, rivers, and ridges, offering challenging terrain and rewarding vistas. It's ideal for experienced hikers seeking longer and more remote adventures.
7. Aldermere Farm Preserve
FARM AND MEADOW TRAILS
Aldermere Farm Preserve features gentle walking trails through meadows, woods, and farmland within a working Belted Galloway cattle farm. Visitors enjoy scenic landscapes and a glimpse of the farm's unique cows grazing in open fields. The preserve hosts guided walks and offers family-friendly routes.
8. Owls Head State Park
COASTAL LIGHTHOUSE HIKES
Owls Head State Park offers short coastal trails leading to dramatic ocean views, rocky outcrops, and the historic Owls Head Light. The park is a popular destination for casual hikers and picnickers who enjoy scenic overlooks and maritime history. Wildlife watchers can spot seabirds and occasional seals along the shore.
9. Camden Hills State Park
MOUNTAIN AND OCEAN VISTAS
Camden Hills State Park is renowned for its extensive network of hiking trails, including the popular Mount Battie trail, which rewards hikers with panoramic views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay. The park's varied terrain ranges from wooded valleys to rocky summits. It's a premier destination for both easy walks and challenging hikes in midcoast Maine.
10. Ragged Mountain Preserve
CHALLENGING SUMMIT TRAILS
Ragged Mountain Preserve is favored by experienced hikers for its rugged trails and the rewarding summit vistas over lakes and countryside. The main loop climbs steadily through dense forest to open ledges and a communications tower at the top. The preserve is also a popular spot for wildlife viewing and berry picking in season.