The Forks MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near The Forks, Maine.
1. Moxie Falls
STUNNING 90-FOOT WATERFALL
Moxie Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in New England, accessible via an easy 1-mile hiking trail. The 90-foot waterfall can be viewed from several boardwalks built atop the steep, wooded gorge. The stream features numerous swimming holes that are popular on warm days, making it a perfect destination for hikers of all ages.
2. Mosquito Mountain
THE FORKS' HIDDEN GEM
Mosquito Mountain trail is considered "The Forks' hidden gem" offering spectacular 360-degree views at the summit. The trail begins easy but becomes a steep climb after crossing the power lines, rewarding hikers with amazing vistas of Indian Pond and surrounding landscapes. The western ledges at the summit provide perfect seats for watching sunsets, making this trail worth the challenging ascent.
3. Pleasant Pond Mountain
DUAL APPROACH SUMMIT
Pleasant Pond Mountain offers hikers two distinct approaches to reach its 2,447-foot summit. Visitors can choose between a steeper 1.6-mile trail from the west or a more gentle 5-mile path from the east. The mountain rewards hikers with good views of the surrounding Maine wilderness.
4. The Forks Area Scenic Trail
RIVERSIDE MULTI-USE PATH
The Forks Area Scenic Trail (F.A.S.T.) runs along the Kennebec River and is ideal for running, biking, or hiking with dogs and children. The trail spans approximately 6 miles from Northern Outdoors Resort to The Forks where the rivers meet, featuring a freshly laid gravel surface for the first four miles. During winter it serves as a snowmobile trail, but spring through fall it's reserved for foot traffic only.
5. Grand Falls
IMPRESSIVE WATERFALL EXPERIENCE
Grand Falls is one of the notable hiking destinations in The Forks region of Maine. The trail leads to an impressive waterfall that showcases the natural beauty of the Kennebec River Valley. Hikers can enjoy the scenic journey through Maine's forests before reaching this breathtaking natural attraction.
6. Appalachian Trail Section
ICONIC LONG-DISTANCE PATH
The Appalachian Trail section near The Forks offers hikers a chance to experience part of this legendary 2,190-mile footpath. This portion of the trail provides challenging terrain through Maine's pristine wilderness with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Day hikers and through-hikers alike appreciate the remote beauty and rugged character of the Maine section of the Appalachian Trail.
7. Kennebec River Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE HIKE
The Kennebec River Trail follows the banks of the iconic Kennebec River, offering hikers spectacular views of the waterway that defines The Forks region. The trail provides opportunities to observe local wildlife and the natural beauty of Maine's river valley ecosystems. Hikers can enjoy relatively flat terrain while experiencing the peaceful ambiance of one of Maine's most important rivers.
8. Mt. Katahdin Trail
MAINE'S HIGHEST PEAK
Mt. Katahdin, located in Baxter State Park, is Maine's highest peak and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. The mountain offers several challenging trails to its 5,269-foot summit, rewarding hikers with panoramic views of Maine's vast wilderness. This iconic Maine hiking destination requires advance preparations and good physical conditioning due to its steep, rugged terrain.
9. Indian Pond Trail
LAKESIDE WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Indian Pond Trail circles the shores of the scenic body of water that provides water for Kennebec River rafting adventures. The trail offers moderate hiking through mixed forests with frequent views of the expansive pond and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Hikers can enjoy the relative solitude of this less-traveled path while taking in the natural beauty of The Forks region.
10. Northern Forest Canoe Trail
LAND AND WATER ADVENTURE
The Northern Forest Canoe Trail features hiking paths that connect with paddling routes through The Forks region. This unique trail system allows outdoor enthusiasts to experience Maine's wilderness from multiple perspectives as they traverse both land and water. The trail showcases the interconnected nature of Maine's forests, rivers, and streams while providing access to remote areas of natural beauty.