Medford MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Medford, Maine.
1. Lagrange-Medford Multi-use Trail
FORESTS AND FARMLANDS PATH
Lagrange-Medford Multi-use Trail extends 16 miles from South Lagrange to Medford Center, offering a scenic journey through rural forests and farmlands. The trail features a packed gravel surface suitable for hiking, off-road biking, and year-round outdoor activities. Visitors enjoy a peaceful route well-suited for nature observation and local wildlife sightings.
2. Chimney Pond Trail
ICONIC MOUNTAIN TREK
Chimney Pond Trail offers hikers a 3.1-mile one-way path leading to the scenic Chimney Pond in Baxter State Park. Renowned for its mountain vistas and pristine wilderness, the trail is considered one of the premier hikes in the region. The route provides access to Katahdin's dramatic landscape and is popular with serious hikers and backpackers.
3. Baxter State Park
MAINE'S WILDERNESS GEM
Baxter State Park encompasses over 200,000 acres of rugged terrain, including Mount Katahdin, Maine's highest peak. The park features a network of hiking trails for all skill levels, ranging from easy walks to challenging summit hikes. Wildlife viewing, secluded ponds, and breathtaking views make it a favorite destination for hikers across New England.
4. Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area
LAKESIDE FOREST TRAILS
Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area consists of a vast, wild landscape with numerous lakes and well-maintained hiking trails. The area offers peaceful paths through old-growth forests and along pristine shorelines. Its remote location provides opportunities for solitude, birdwatching, and exploration of Maine's unspoiled nature.
5. Gulf Hagas
THE GRAND CANYON OF MAINE
Gulf Hagas features a deep, scenic gorge carved by the West Branch of the Pleasant River and is renowned for its waterfalls and dramatic rock walls. The main trail provides a moderately challenging 8-mile loop, with numerous side trails offering views of cascades and forested cliffs. Its remote wilderness feel and breathtaking scenery draw hikers and nature lovers year-round.
6. Pleasant River Walk
RIVERSIDE HIKING EXPERIENCE
Pleasant River Walk follows the course of the Pleasant River, offering gentle terrain suitable for families and casual walkers. The path winds through mixed woods with frequent river views and opportunities to spot wildlife. This easy-access trail is popular with locals seeking a tranquil nature outing.
7. Jo-Mary Lake Trails
LAKESIDE ADVENTURE PATHS
Jo-Mary Lake Trails meander along the shores of the expansive Jo-Mary Lake, providing access to both wooded and waterfront hiking. The area is known for its serene scenery, clear waters, and excellent opportunities for swimming and fishing post-hike. Hikers enjoy peaceful sunrises, birdwatching, and relaxing by the water's edge.
8. Little Moose Mountain Trail
SUMMIT AND LAKE VIEWS
Little Moose Mountain Trail offers a moderately challenging ascent to scenic summits overlooking Moosehead Lake and expansive forestland. The trail loops through dense woods, crossing streams and passing several picturesque ponds. Its panoramic views and quiet setting make it a popular hike for both locals and visitors.
9. Appalachian Trail - 100 Mile Wilderness
REMOTE WILDERNESS TREK
The 100 Mile Wilderness section of the Appalachian Trail starts near Monson and is considered one of the wildest and most scenic portions of the entire trail. Hikers experience unbroken stretches of remote forest, lakes, and rugged terrain with limited access to roads or resupply. This challenging trek is a bucket-list adventure for experienced hikers seeking solitude and immersion in Maine's backcountry.
10. Peaks-Kenny State Park
TRAILS AND LAKE VIEWS
Peaks-Kenny State Park, located on the shores of Sebec Lake, features a variety of well-maintained trails through mixed forest and along scenic lakeside routes. The park is ideal for family hikes, picnics, and spotting local wildlife. Its easy access and beautiful setting make it a favorite day-trip destination for outdoor enthusiasts.