Industry MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Industry, Maine.
1. Pico Ledges Trail
SCENIC LEDGE VIEWS
Pico Ledges Trail offers a short but moderately challenging hike to an open ledge with fantastic views of Clearwater Lake, Mt. Blue, and western Maine hills. The trail is about half a mile one way and begins at the Center Hill Cemetery, making it easily accessible while passing through tranquil woodland paths. This trail is notable for its hand-painted nature quotes and requires hikers to respectfully stay on the main path, as it crosses privately owned land.
2. Mount Blue State Park
EXTENSIVE MOUNTAIN TRAILS
Mount Blue State Park is one of Maine's largest parks and offers a wide network of hiking trails, including the popular summit hike up Mount Blue for sweeping views. The park features over 8,000 acres of forest, lakeshores, and rugged hills, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Amenities include camping, swimming, and wildlife observation, with hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more strenuous climbs.
3. Smalls Falls
WATERFALLS AND PICNIC AREA
Smalls Falls is a popular scenic spot featuring a series of picturesque waterfalls cascading through a rocky gorge surrounded by forest. Visitors can enjoy short, easy walking trails leading to excellent views of the falls, as well as picnic tables and swimming spots. The site is especially popular in the summer and fall for its beauty and accessibility.
4. Bigelow Preserve
HIGH PEAKS WILDERNESS
Bigelow Preserve is a vast protected area known for its challenging and scenic hiking trails, including the strenuous ascent to the twin summits of Bigelow Mountain. The preserve lies within the High Peaks region and offers panoramic views, diverse wildlife, and remote wilderness experiences. Backpackers often explore its section of the Appalachian Trail for multi-day hikes.
5. Tumbledown Mountain
ALPINE LAKE AND SUMMITS
Tumbledown Mountain features one of Maine's most unique hikes, where trails lead to rocky summits and an alpine pond set high above the surrounding forests. The mountain offers several ascent routes, catering to both moderate and advanced hikers, all culminating in wide views and the opportunity to swim in Tumbledown Pond. The combination of challenging terrain and picturesque scenery makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
6. Appalachian Trail (Rangeley Area)
NATIONAL SCENIC LANDMARK
The Appalachian Trail runs through the Rangeley area, presenting hikers with sections featuring open ridgelines, forested paths, and notable peaks like Saddleback Mountain. These trails are renowned for rugged beauty and offer both day hikes and longer backpacking opportunities. The Rangeley section is particularly favored for its frequent moose sightings and panoramic mountain vistas.
7. French Mountain Trail
SHORT PANORAMIC HIKE
French Mountain Trail is a short but steep hike offering rewarding, sweeping views over the Belgrade Lakes region from its rocky summit. The well-trodden trail is family-friendly and can be completed in less than an hour, making it ideal for a quick outdoor excursion. Its close proximity to central Maine lakes makes it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
8. Mt. Abraham
REMOTE ALPINE SUMMIT
Mt. Abraham is known for its challenging ascent leading to a remote, windswept summit with expansive views across the western Maine mountains. The trail traverses mixed forest and open talus slopes, offering a strenuous but rewarding hiking experience. Its alpine habitat and isolation make it popular among experienced hikers seeking solitude.
9. Poplar Stream Falls
FOREST WATERFALL HIKE
Poplar Stream Falls Trail leads hikers through peaceful woodlands to a pair of beautiful cascading waterfalls ideal for pictures and relaxation. The relatively easy trail is suitable for most skill levels and is part of the larger Carrabassett Valley trail network. The site is especially attractive in spring and summer when water flow is highest.
10. Mount Kineo
HISTORIC CLIFFSIDE VIEWS
Mount Kineo rises dramatically from Moosehead Lake, offering hiking trails that climb to a historic fire tower with breathtaking lake and mountain views from the summit. The area features unique geological formations and is accessed by a seasonal ferry or private boat. Its rich history and spectacular natural vistas make it a top destination for hikers in the region.