Lincolnville MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Lincolnville, Maine.
1. Tablelands Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY NATURE WALK
Tablelands Trail is an easy, family-friendly trail that meanders through wooded areas and open fields in Lincolnville. Visitors can enjoy opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing along this accessible path. The trail provides a perfect introduction to Lincolnville's natural beauty for hikers of all skill levels.
2. Fernald's Neck Preserve
LAKESIDE PENINSULA HIKING
Fernald's Neck Preserve offers a lovely walk on a 326-acre protected peninsula on Megunticook Lake. The preserve features multiple trail options including the Blue Trail (1.8 miles), White Trail (0.4 miles), and Orange Trail (1.75 miles) of varying difficulty. Visitors should note that hunting and dogs are not permitted on this beautiful lakeside hiking area.
3. Tanglewood Trails
EXPANSIVE FOREST NETWORK
Tanglewood Trails encompasses approximately 12 miles of paths meandering through 950 forested acres and along the Ducktrap River. The trail system includes several notable routes such as the Forest Loop Trail (3 miles), Turner Falls Trail (1.75 miles), River Trail (1 mile), and Old Boundary Trail (0.5 miles). These trails are open for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, while activities like snowmobiling and bicycling are restricted to specific roads.
4. Ducktrap River Preserve
WILD SALMON HABITAT
Ducktrap River Preserve is Coastal Mountains Land Trust's largest and most wild preserve, protecting 1140 acres of river shoreline for wild Atlantic salmon habitat. The trail system offers 5.6 miles of moderate difficulty hiking with the first 1.4 miles shared with a snowmobile trail. Visitors should be aware that the bridge across the Ducktrap River is out, making river crossing potentially hazardous at times.
5. Bald Mountain Preserve
CHALLENGING SUMMIT HIKE
Bald Mountain Preserve offers a challenging 2.6-mile round trip trail on 583 acres in nearby Camden. The difficult trail rewards hikers with spectacular views from the summit after a steep climb. Activities at this preserve include hiking, birding, and snowshoeing in winter months.
6. Beech Hill Preserve
SCENIC SUMMIT VIEWS
Beech Hill Preserve features two main trails across its 295 acres in Rockport, just a short drive from Lincolnville. The Summit Trail (0.6 miles one-way) offers an easy route to panoramic views, while the Woods Loop (0.9 miles one-way) provides an alternative easy path through beautiful forests. This preserve is ideal for hiking, birding, and snowshoeing, making it accessible year-round for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Belfast Rail Trail
ACCESSIBLE WATERFRONT PATH
Belfast Rail Trail is a 2.3-mile one-way easy path that follows a former railway line in Belfast, a short distance from Lincolnville. The trail is exceptionally accessible, perfect for hiking, birding, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing throughout the seasons. Its level grade and waterfront views make it an ideal option for families and those seeking a less strenuous outdoor experience.
8. Forest Loop Trail
COMPLETE HABITAT OVERVIEW
Forest Loop Trail is a 3-mile path that completely encircles the interior of the Tanglewood property, offering a comprehensive view of the many habitats it encompasses. The trail includes several moderately steep slopes, providing a moderate challenge for hikers. Most other trails on the Tanglewood property connect with the Forest Loop Trail, making it an excellent backbone for exploring the entire area.
9. Turner Falls Trail
RIVER AND FALLS ROUTE
Turner Falls Trail begins at the watertower in the Tanglewood property and winds 1.75 miles through old growth spruce forest in Lincolnville. The trail features a steep descent to the Ducktrap River, where it joins with the River Trail before reaching the falls. Hikers are rewarded with views of pristine waterways and the chance to spot native wildlife throughout this scenic route.
10. River Trail
ATLANTIC SALMON WATERS
River Trail is a 1-mile path that parallels the pristine Ducktrap River, home to Atlantic Salmon, as well as a section of Black Brook in Lincolnville. The trail crosses behind the camp village and gains elevation to the west of the Ducktrap River, offering varying perspectives of the waterway. Hikers can observe the protected salmon habitat while enjoying the tranquil riverside environment throughout all seasons.