Highland Plantation MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Highland Plantation, Maine.
1. Briggs Hill
CHALLENGING FOREST HIKE
Briggs Hill offers outdoor enthusiasts a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience in Highland Plantation. The trail winds through dense forests before opening to spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness. Hikers can enjoy the abundant wildlife and natural beauty that characterizes this rugged part of Maine.
2. Bald Mountain Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Bald Mountain Trail provides hikers with access to one of Highland Plantation's notable peaks. The path offers a moderate climb through Maine's characteristic wilderness with opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. At the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Somerset County landscape.
3. Witham Mountain Path
PEACEFUL WILDERNESS TREK
Witham Mountain Path takes adventurers through the heart of Highland Plantation's untouched wilderness. This less-traveled trail showcases the area's rich natural beauty and provides excellent opportunities for wildlife watching. The path follows portions of the mountain's natural contours, creating a varied hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Sandy Stream Trail
WATERSIDE NATURE WALK
Sandy Stream Trail follows one of Highland Plantation's beautiful waterways through pristine Maine forest. Hikers can enjoy the soothing sounds of running water while traversing this relatively gentle path. The trail provides excellent fishing access points and opportunities to observe riparian wildlife in their natural habitat.
5. Highland Research Forest Trails
EDUCATIONAL FOREST EXPERIENCE
Highland Research Forest Trails offer visitors easy walking paths around the headwaters of Highland Lake with an amazing wetland complex to explore. Several trail options allow hikers to reach either the large wetland area or Highland Lake, with distances ranging from 0.3 to 0.8 miles from the trailhead. The forest serves as both a recreational area and a space for long-term research projects related to woods, wildlife, soil, and water.
6. Bigelow Preserve Trails
MOUNTAIN RANGE ADVENTURE
Bigelow Preserve Trails traverse one of Maine's most spectacular mountain ranges located near Highland Plantation. The network includes sections of the famous Appalachian Trail and offers hiking experiences ranging from moderate day hikes to challenging multi-day treks. Hikers can experience stunning alpine environments, panoramic views of Flagstaff Lake, and abundant opportunities to observe Maine's diverse wildlife.
7. Kennebec Highlands Trails
VARIED TERRAIN NETWORK
Kennebec Highlands Trails offer a 2.9-mile loop through diverse terrain in the region surrounding Highland Plantation. The trail system includes the Sanders Hill Trail and the Kennebec Highlands Trail, providing moderate hiking challenges through beautiful forested landscapes. These paths showcase the natural beauty of central Maine with varying elevations and ecological zones.
8. Little Jackson Mountain Trail
CHALLENGING SUMMIT CLIMB
Little Jackson Mountain Trail provides hikers with a challenging route to one of western Maine's impressive peaks near Highland Plantation. The trail features varying terrain and ecosystems as it climbs to higher elevations through Maine's western mountains. From the summit, hikers enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys that characterize this beautiful region.
9. Long Falls Dam Road Trail
HISTORIC SCENIC ROUTE
Long Falls Dam Road Trail follows portions of the historic road that begins in New Portland and ends near Long Falls Dam and Dead River. This trail offers hikers a less strenuous option to experience Highland Plantation's beautiful wilderness and connects several natural attractions. The path provides excellent opportunities for seasonal outdoor activities including hiking in summer and snowshoeing in winter.
10. Michael Stream Path
TRANQUIL WATER TRAIL
Michael Stream Path follows one of Highland Plantation's picturesque waterways through unspoiled Maine wilderness. The trail offers hikers a peaceful journey alongside running water with chances to spot local wildlife in their natural habitat. This less-visited path showcases the quiet solitude and natural beauty that makes Highland Plantation a special destination for outdoor enthusiasts.