Veazie MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Veazie, Maine.
1. Buck Hill Conservation Area
MEADOWS AND FOREST TRAILS
Buck Hill Conservation Area features 64 acres of diverse habitats, including meadows, streams, and mature forest, offering visitors a two-mile network of easy to moderate hiking trails. The area is well-maintained, with wide walking paths that wind through scenic woods and by American chestnut trees planted near the main entrance. It is managed by the Town of Veazie and supported by local volunteers, providing an accessible spot for nature walks and wildlife observation.
2. McPhetres Forest
QUIET WOODED ESCAPE
McPhetres Forest offers a 1.3-mile network of easy to moderate trails that loop through a peaceful forested area within Veazie. The terrain is primarily dirt and forest floor, making for a tranquil and accessible hiking experience. This community-managed preserve is perfect for those seeking a quiet walk in the woods close to town.
3. Veazie Town Forest (McPhetres and Davis Forests, Manter Wood)
HISTORIC PINES AND LOOP TRAILS
The Veazie Town Forest unites McPhetres Forest, Davis Forest, and Manter Wood into a 33-acre preserve with a two-mile network of blazed trails. Hikers can enjoy stands of white oak, a historic 100+ year-old white pine, and various forest ecosystems along this looped route. Several trailheads and good signage make this forest an inviting and educational area for walkers of all ages.
4. Orono Land Trust Trails
EXTENSIVE NATURE NETWORKS
The Orono Land Trust manages a network of trails that traverse forested land, wetlands, and open meadows near Veazie. These trails provide ample hiking opportunities for all skill levels, with scenic views and educational signage along the way. The system links several preserves, allowing hikes of varying lengths and experiences.
5. Bangor City Forest (Rolland F. Perry City Forest)
URBAN FOREST ADVENTURE
Bangor City Forest offers over 680 acres of woodland and 9 miles of trails suitable for hiking, biking, and wildlife observation. Well-marked paths and boardwalks lead visitors through a diverse landscape of forests, wetlands, and streams. Its proximity to Veazie makes it a popular destination for year-round outdoor recreation.
6. Hirundo Wildlife Refuge
WETLANDS AND WILDLIFE
Hirundo Wildlife Refuge spans 2,400 acres and features over seven miles of interpretive trails winding through forests, peatlands, and fields. The refuge is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including birds and beavers, and visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and educational programs throughout the year. Its well-maintained paths and scenic beauty make it a regional favorite for nature enthusiasts.
7. Penobscot River Walkway
RIVERSIDE WALKING PATH
The Penobscot River Walkway is a paved multi-use trail that stretches along the riverbank in downtown Bangor. It offers scenic views of the Penobscot River, access to waterfront parks, and connections to other urban trails. The walkway is ideal for a leisurely stroll, running, or biking right in the heart of the city.
8. University of Maine Forest Trails
EDUCATIONAL WOODS AND LOOPS
The University of Maine campus in Orono features a series of forested trails open to the public, with loops ranging from short walks to longer hikes. These well-maintained paths cross through research forests, offering interpretive signs about local ecology. The area is popular with students and locals for its educational and recreational opportunities.
9. Caribou Bog Conservation Area
BOG TRAILS AND BOARDWALKS
Caribou Bog Conservation Area features extensive hiking trails and boardwalks through diverse natural habitats, including forests, wetlands, and peat bogs. The area is known for its unique plant life and opportunities for birdwatching. With trail options for all levels, it is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to explore Maine's wetland ecosystems.
10. Piney Knoll Conservation Area
RIVERSIDE WOODLAND PATHS
Piney Knoll Conservation Area offers 70 acres of quiet woodland trails along the Penobscot River, with several miles of well-kept footpaths. Visitors can enjoy beautiful water views, mature pine stands, and interpretive signage about the area's natural history. The serene setting and easy access make it popular for both hikers and families.