Union MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Union, Maine.
1. Clarry Hill
BLUEBERRY FIELDS AND VIEWS
Clarry Hill offers a 1.25-mile one-way trail that takes hikers through beautiful blueberry fields and woods. The moderate difficulty trail features dirt, forest floor, and grass surfaces as it winds through the picturesque landscape. Hikers are rewarded with stunning views at the end of this scenic Union trail.
2. Mount Pleasant to Spruce Mountain
SCENIC MOUNTAIN TRAVERSE
The Mount Pleasant to Spruce Mountain trail offers a challenging traverse between 3 and 4 miles long. Hikers can experience varied terrain and elevation changes as they make their way from one mountain to the other. This trail provides excellent opportunities for nature observation and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Union River Walk
RIVERSIDE URBAN ESCAPE
Union River Walk is a short, easy trail starting behind the Ellsworth Public Library offering a peaceful escape along the Union River. The first 165 feet of the trail are ADA accessible with a gravel surface, ending at an overlook perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying river views. Beyond the accessible section, the trail narrows and includes stone steps, passing impressive cliffs and culminating with a view of the dam.
4. Down East Sunrise Trail
VAST WILDLIFE CORRIDOR
The Down East Sunrise Trail begins in Ellsworth and extends all the way to Calais, Maine, serving as a multi-use corridor connecting eastern Maine and the East Coast Greenway. This expansive trail passes through green forests and vast marshes that provide habitat for iconic wildlife including moose, beavers, eagles, wild turkeys, and whitetail deer. Offering numerous recreational opportunities, the trail can be used for hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife observation.
5. Woodlawn Trails
HISTORIC ESTATE PATHS
Woodlawn Trails were originally built as exercise tracks for the Black family's horses and later used for automobiles. Today, these historic paths offer opportunities for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, running, and walking throughout the scenic estate grounds. Benches are strategically placed near the peaceful lily pond and other locations for rest and contemplation during your hike.
6. Clark Island
COASTAL ISLAND EXPLORATION
Clark Island offers hikers a unique coastal exploration experience in Midcoast Maine. The trail allows visitors to discover the diverse ecosystems of a Maine island, from rocky shores to inland forests. This easy hike provides spectacular views of the surrounding waters and is accessible for most skill levels.
7. Maiden Cliff
DRAMATIC MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Maiden Cliff is a popular hiking destination in Midcoast Maine featuring dramatic cliff-top views. The trail climbs moderately to a famous overlook marked by a large metal cross commemorating a tragic accident from the 1800s. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic vistas of Megunticook Lake and the surrounding countryside from this impressive natural formation.
8. Beach Hill Preserve
COASTAL FOREST RETREAT
Beach Hill Preserve offers a peaceful network of trails through coastal forests in Midcoast Maine. The preserve features well-maintained paths suitable for hikers of various ability levels seeking a natural retreat. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of mature woodlands while exploring this accessible conservation area.
9. Woodward Preserve
SERENE WOODLAND PATHS
Woodward Preserve provides hikers with serene woodland paths through protected natural habitat in Midcoast Maine. The trail system winds through diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities to observe local flora and fauna in their natural environment. This peaceful preserve makes for an ideal easy hiking experience away from more crowded destinations.
10. Giant's Stairs
DRAMATIC COASTAL FORMATIONS
Giant's Stairs is a remarkable coastal trail featuring dramatic rock formations that resemble a massive stone staircase carved by the ocean. Located in Midcoast Maine, this geological wonder provides hikers with spectacular views of crashing waves and rugged shoreline. The relatively short trail offers an impressive payoff for minimal hiking effort, making it a popular destination for visitors to the region.