West Bath MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near West Bath, Maine.
1. Hamilton Audubon Sanctuary
FOREST AND MARSHLAND TRAILS
Hamilton Audubon Sanctuary offers 93 acres of forest, marshes, and mud flats with over two miles of interconnected trails. The sanctuary is known for its diverse ecosystems, providing excellent birdwatching opportunities and scenic views. Visitors can enjoy relatively easy to moderate hiking while exploring the natural beauty unique to the West Bath area.
2. Green Point Preserve
BAYFRONT WOODLAND PRESERVE
Green Point Preserve is a 45-acre protected area boasting a lovely 1.2-mile out-and-back trail through spruce-pine forests with rocky outcrops and scenic views of Winnegance Bay. The preserve features vernal pools that serve as critical breeding grounds for local wildlife. It provides a tranquil hiking experience with close connections to the water and surrounding woodlands.
3. West Bath Snowmobile Trails
MULTI-USE FOREST TRAILS
The West Bath Snowmobile Trails offer miles of well-marked paths that wind through pretty woods, accessible to hikers as well as snowmobilers. Located near the local transfer station and behind the fire station, the trails give panoramic views, including glimpses of Mt. Washington on clear days. While some sections have seen recent changes due to forestry, the area remains a favorite for outdoor recreation.
4. Merritt Island
TIDAL ISLAND LOOP TRAIL
Merritt Island is a 28-acre undeveloped island accessible at lower tides, offering a one-mile trail that circles the island. The path is unblazed but easy to follow, making it an adventurous spot for experienced hikers and nature enthusiasts. The island is known for its tranquility and natural Maine shoreline, providing a unique coastal hiking experience.
5. Thorne Head Preserve
RIVERSIDE FOREST PRESERVE
Thorne Head Preserve covers a scenic waterfront forest area at the edge of Bath, with trails that explore diverse habitats and historic sites like Murderer's Cave. The preserve is rich in flora and fauna, including deer and numerous bird species, and connects to the Whiskeag Trail. It's cherished for its ecological importance and beautiful estuary views.
6. Whiskeag Trail
LONG-DISTANCE CONNECTOR PATH
The Whiskeag Trail runs for about five miles, linking Thorne Head Preserve south to the Bath YMCA, passing through forests, wetlands, and along streams. It is ideal for those seeking a longer hike or trail run, with a well-maintained path suitable for various skill levels. The trail offers frequent wildlife sightings and peaceful, natural scenery.
7. Bath Nature Preserve
EXPANSIVE FIELDS AND FOREST
Bath Nature Preserve features over 200 acres of varied terrain including forests, open fields, and salt marshes, crossed by several miles of trails. The area is popular with hikers, birdwatchers, and families, offering wide, easy paths and interpretive signs about the local ecology. Its scenic location provides views of the New Meadows River and plenty of opportunities for exploration.
8. Sewall Woods Preserve
QUIET WOODED TRAIL LOOP
Sewall Woods Preserve offers a network of peaceful trails that wind through mixed woodlands near the heart of Bath. It's a preferred spot for a quiet walk or gentle hike, full of ferns, mature trees, and glimpses of wildlife. The looped paths make for easy navigation and family outings.
9. Morse Mountain Conservation Area
SCENIC SUMMIT AND BEACH
Morse Mountain Conservation Area, just south of Bath, offers a moderately challenging 3.8-mile round-trip hike that leads to a high point with commanding ocean vistas. The trail then descends to Seawall Beach, a pristine and remote stretch of sand. This area is managed for both recreation and conservation, making it a favorite for hikers who love coastal landscapes.
10. Josephine Newman Wildlife Sanctuary
SALT MARSH AND WOODS TRAILS
Josephine Newman Wildlife Sanctuary in nearby Georgetown offers several miles of trails that traverse salt marshes, woods, and rocky outcrops. The sanctuary is renowned for its birdwatching and opportunities to see a variety of coastal habitats up close. Its well-marked, family-friendly paths provide a peaceful natural retreat close to West Bath.