Swanville MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Swanville, Maine.
1. Meadow Brook Preserve
WETLANDS AND FOREST HABITATS
Meadow Brook Preserve offers a 2.1-mile one-way trail through 444 acres of mature forest, wetlands, and early successional habitats. Hikers experience sweeping views of wetlands around Hurds Pond, diverse birdlife including chestnut-sided and prairie warblers, and abundant wildflowers and brooks supporting amphibian life. The preserve is a key part of a larger undeveloped habitat block and provides opportunities for moderate hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
2. Swan Lake State Park
LAKESIDE LEISURE TRAILS
Swan Lake State Park features short, easy woodland trails alongside a scenic lakeside setting, ideal for walking and enjoying nature. The park is popular for swimming, fishing, picnicking, and quiet strolls, making it a family-friendly destination year-round. In the off-season, visitors can walk the paved access road down to the small park for peaceful views and wildlife observation.
3. Beehive Trail
ICONIC IRON-RUNG CLIMB
The Beehive Trail in Acadia National Park is renowned for its iron rungs and exposed cliffs, presenting a short but challenging 1.9-mile loop. Adventurous hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Sand Beach, the ocean, and the surrounding park from the summit. The trail is not recommended for small children or those with a fear of heights but is a must for thrill-seekers in the area.
4. Ocean Path
COASTAL SCENERY WALK
Ocean Path is a popular, relatively easy trail in Acadia National Park running parallel to the dramatic coastline between Sand Beach and Otter Point. At approximately 4 miles round trip, the path offers continuous ocean views, rocky shorelines, and access to iconic landmarks like Thunder Hole. The trail is perfect for all ages and showcases the raw beauty of Maine's Atlantic coast.
5. Cadillac North Ridge Trail
SUMMIT ASCENT ROUTE
The Cadillac North Ridge Trail provides a moderately challenging hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast. This trail offers sweeping vistas of Frenchman Bay and is especially popular at sunrise and sunset. Hikers are treated to open granite ledges, spruce forests, and one of Acadia's most celebrated summit experiences.
6. Cadillac South Ridge Trail
LONG MOUNTAIN TRAVERSE
The Cadillac South Ridge Trail spans over 7 miles round-trip, traversing forests, granite ridges, and open summits. This route is less crowded and showcases diverse scenery, including the Featherbed pond and beautiful mountain landscapes. The trail culminates at Cadillac Mountain's summit, providing hikers with rewarding panoramic views.
7. Bubbles Trail
TWIN PEAKS WITH VIEWS
The Bubbles Trail leads hikers to the North and South Bubble peaks, two iconic rounded summits in Acadia National Park. The trail is relatively short but steep, offering spectacular views of Jordan Pond and the surrounding forests and lakes. It's a favorite for families and photographers looking for classic Maine vistas.
8. Precipice Trail
VERTICAL ROCK SCRAMBLE
Precipice Trail is a demanding hike famous for its near-vertical climbs, metal rungs, and ladders along the cliffs of Champlain Mountain. The trail is thrilling and physically challenging, recommended only for experienced hikers without a fear of heights. Those who complete it enjoy some of the most dramatic views in Acadia National Park.
9. Gorge Path
FORESTED VALLEY HIKE
Gorge Path takes hikers through a scenic forested gorge nestled between Dorr Mountain and Cadillac Mountain. The trail features lush vegetation, flowing streams, and cool, shaded terrain perfect for summer hikes. It's an intermediate route that offers connections to other notable Acadia trails and outstanding mountain views.
10. Perpendicular Trail
STONE STAIRCASE CLIMB
The Perpendicular Trail winds up Mansell Mountain along a series of historic stone staircases and switchbacks, making for a unique and strenuous ascent. This trail is famed for its engineering and the rewarding vistas over Long Pond and the surrounding mountains at the summit. Hikers will appreciate the trail's blend of natural beauty and craftsmanship.