East Machias MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near East Machias, Maine.
1. Machias River Preserve
SCENIC RIVERFRONT TRAILS
Machias River Preserve offers a 5.5-mile network of interconnecting hiking trails, providing scenic and recreational access to the Machias River. The preserve spans 917 acres, featuring diverse habitats and opportunities for wildlife observation along the riverbanks. Visitors can easily explore this well-managed community forest, which also connects to the Down East Sunrise Trail.
2. Down East Sunrise Trail
MULTI-USE COASTAL TRAIL
The Down East Sunrise Trail stretches more than 87 miles from Ellsworth to Ayers Junction, passing through Machias and offering excellent hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. The trail follows a former rail corridor, providing scenic views of forests, wetlands, and coastal areas. Its wide, gravel surface makes it accessible for various activities and users throughout the year.
3. Hemlock Trail
SHORT RIVERSIDE WALK
Hemlock Trail is a short, 0.1-mile round trip path that winds along the Machias River, accessible from the Down East Sunrise Trail near the Trestle Bridge. The trail features striking hemlock trees and offers picturesque river views, making it ideal for a brief nature walk. Its proximity to the river allows hikers to enjoy tranquil scenery in a compact outing.
4. Machias River Heritage Trail
WOODLAND RIVER HIKE
Machias River Heritage Trail begins at a convenient parking area and leads 0.5 miles through woodland to a river bridge. The trail continues for 2.5 scenic miles along the Machias River, with opportunities to connect to the Down East Sunrise Trail. This riverside path is popular for its easy access and tranquil natural setting.
5. Long Point Preserve
PICTURESQUE COASTAL PRESERVE
Long Point Preserve offers hikers a scenic journey that begins on a dirt road and transitions to more rustic trails, presenting coastal and woodland views. The preserve is known for its peaceful atmosphere and access to the pristine coastline. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy both leisurely walks and more challenging hikes in this beautiful natural setting.
6. Fairy Head Loop
REMOTE COASTAL WILDERNESS
The Fairy Head Loop, located in Cutler Coast Public Land, is a 9.7-mile loop trail that offers hikers dramatic ocean vistas, forested paths, and rugged cliffs. This challenging trail is renowned for its wild beauty and remote feel, providing a quintessential Downeast Maine hiking experience. Trekking this loop immerses visitors in one of Maine's last great coastal wilderness areas.
7. Cutler Bold Coast Trails
DRAMATIC OCEANFRONT HIKING
The Cutler Bold Coast Trails traverse over 10 miles of coastal headlands, forests, and raised bogs, with frequent sweeping views of the Atlantic. These trails are well-known for their challenging terrain and breathtaking scenery, including high cliffs and wave-battered shores. Hikers seeking solitude and adventure will find these trails a highlight of Maine's eastern coastline.
8. Roque Bluffs State Park
COASTAL PARK TRAILS
Roque Bluffs State Park provides several miles of easy to moderate trails winding through forests, wetlands, and along rocky beaches. The park is a favorite for family hikes, birdwatching, and swimming in both saltwater and freshwater settings. Its diverse landscapes make it a popular year-round destination for outdoor recreation.
9. Great Wass Island Preserve
ISLAND HIKING ADVENTURE
Great Wass Island Preserve features more than 4.5 miles of trails through spruce-fir forest, bogs, and across open ledges with ocean views. The preserve's rugged landscape offers hikers a chance to explore unique flora and dramatic coastal scenery. Its varied habitats make it a standout destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurous hikers.
10. Sipayik Trail
SEASIDE COMMUNITY PATH
Sipayik Trail is a nearly 1.5-mile community path that follows the Passamaquoddy Bay shoreline, offering expansive ocean vistas and interpretive signs about local heritage. The trail is flat and accessible, making it suitable for walkers of all abilities. Visitors can enjoy peaceful bay views while learning about the area's cultural and natural history.