Bangor MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Bangor, Maine.
1. Bangor City Forest
EXPANSIVE URBAN FOREST
Bangor City Forest offers a network of well-maintained trails suitable for all levels of hikers, with options for short strolls or longer loops. The trails wind through varied terrain, including woods and wetlands, and are wide enough for side-by-side walking. It is also popular for biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
2. Kenduskeag Stream Trail
SCENIC STREAMSIDE PATH
Kenduskeag Stream Trail features a groomed path following the picturesque Kenduskeag Stream, offering excellent terrain for running and walking. Picnic areas are located along the trail, providing scenic spots to rest. Parking is available nearby, making it easily accessible for visitors.
3. Penobscot River Walkway
RIVERFRONT WALKING TRAIL
Penobscot River Walkway runs alongside the Penobscot River, connecting downtown Bangor to the waterfront. This landscaped trail is ideal for walking and dog-walking and features picnic areas as well as views of the water. The walkway provides a pleasant urban hiking experience close to the city center.
4. Essex Woods
WETLAND AND FOREST TRAILS
Essex Woods encompasses about 70 acres including wetland and reforested areas, making it suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and cross-country skiing. The trails are easily accessible with parking available off Watchmaker Street. It also features a popular sledding hill in winter.
5. Brown Woods
LOCAL FOREST SANCTUARY
Brown Woods is a compact forested area offering peaceful trails ideal for short hikes and nature walks. It's a quiet spot for those seeking a quick escape into nature without leaving the city. The area is especially popular for birdwatching and short family outings.
6. Prentiss Woods
HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOOD FOREST
Prentiss Woods offers a network of trails winding through a historic wooded area within Bangor. The setting provides a tranquil natural retreat with opportunities for wildlife observation. Its proximity to residential areas makes it a favored spot for community walks and peaceful hikes.
7. Walden Parke Preserve
SUBURBAN NATURE PRESERVE
Walden Parke Preserve offers hikers a variety of trail options through forested landscapes and open spaces. The preserve is accessible and well-loved by local residents seeking to enjoy walking, running, or dog walking. Its network of paths makes it suitable for both short and extended hikes.
8. Orono Bog Walk
UNIQUE BOARDWALK LOOP
Orono Bog Walk features a 1-mile boardwalk loop through the heart of a peat bog and diverse wetland ecosystems. Visitors can observe unique plant and animal life along the interpretive trail. This spot is especially popular for families and nature enthusiasts interested in local ecology.
9. Hirundo Wildlife Refuge
WILDLIFE AND NATURE PRESERVE
Hirundo Wildlife Refuge encompasses more than 2,400 acres along the Pushaw and Dead Streams, offering extensive hiking trails for all skill levels. The refuge is renowned for its opportunities to observe a wide range of wildlife and pristine natural habitats. It is a popular spot for hiking, canoeing, and educational programs.
10. Brewer Riverwalk
RIVERSIDE URBAN PATHWAY
Brewer Riverwalk is a paved riverside trail offering scenic views of the Penobscot River and the Bangor skyline. This urban trail is popular for biking, jogging, and walking with family or pets. The trailhead is easy to access from downtown Brewer, making it a convenient choice for a leisurely outing.