Frankfort MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Frankfort, Maine.
1. Mount Waldo
PANORAMIC SUMMIT VIEWS
Mount Waldo is a 160-acre preserve in Frankfort that rises about a thousand feet in elevation, showcasing panoramic views of Upper Penobscot Bay. The mountain offers exceptional views from its open granite ledges at the 1,060-foot summit, with visibility stretching as far as Acadia and the Camden Hills on clear days. Hikers can choose from three different routes to the summit, with the Murray Lane trail being particularly recommended for its airy oak forest and gradual opening to scenic ledges.
2. Frankfort Town Forest
VAST WOODLAND TRAILS
Frankfort Town Forest encompasses an impressive 1440 acres of woodland bounded by Marsh Stream, Loggin Road, Hamm Road, and West. The forest provides a natural setting for hiking and outdoor recreation within the town's boundaries. Visitors can explore the extensive trail network while enjoying the diverse local ecosystem.
3. Mount Waldo Quarry Trail
HISTORIC QUARRY ROUTE
The Mount Waldo Quarry Trail offers hikers a unique approach to the mountain with a variety of terrain and great elevation gain. This trail route concludes at the historic quarry, providing a perfect spot to cool off after completing the hike. Hikers particularly enjoy this spring opener trail for its combination of mileage, elevation, and diverse landscapes.
4. Bald Mountain Loop
POPULAR LOCAL SUMMIT
Bald Mountain Loop is one of the top hiking picks near Frankfort, offering a moderate trail experience with rewarding views. The trail leads to a scenic summit with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Hikers appreciate this trail for its accessibility and the quality of scenery it provides relative to the effort required.
5. Blue Hill Mountain
COASTAL MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCE
Blue Hill Mountain offers hikers a moderate climb with spectacular coastal views of Penobscot Bay. The mountain features multiple trail options, making it accessible to hikers of varying experience levels. Its proximity to Frankfort makes it a popular destination for those looking to explore more of the region's natural beauty.
6. Orono Bog Boardwalk
UNIQUE WETLAND ECOSYSTEM
The Orono Bog Boardwalk provides an accessible walking path through a fascinating wetland ecosystem near the Frankfort area. Visitors can observe unique flora and fauna while traversing the wooden boardwalk that protects the sensitive bog environment. The trail offers an educational experience with interpretive signs explaining the ecological importance of this natural habitat.
7. Eagle Bluff North Summit
DRAMATIC CLIFFTOP VIEWS
Eagle Bluff North Summit provides hikers with dramatic views from impressive clifftop vantage points within driving distance of Frankfort. The trail offers a moderate challenge with a significant reward in terms of scenic vistas and natural beauty. Visitors particularly enjoy the exposed granite formations and the expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
8. Camden Hills State Park
EXTENSIVE TRAIL NETWORK
Camden Hills State Park features an extensive network of trails with stunning views of Penobscot Bay, making it a worthwhile day trip from Frankfort. The park's most popular trail leads to the summit of Mount Battie, offering panoramic views of Camden Harbor and the surrounding islands. With over 30 miles of hiking trails, visitors can experience diverse terrain from rocky coastline to forested hills.
9. Moose Point State Park
COASTAL SHORELINE PATHS
Moose Point State Park offers scenic coastal hiking along the shores of Penobscot Bay, located a short drive from Frankfort. The park features easy walking paths through spruce forests and along rocky shorelines, perfect for families and casual hikers. Visitors can enjoy picnic areas with ocean views and opportunities to observe coastal wildlife in their natural habitat.
10. Holbrook Island Sanctuary
DIVERSE WILDLIFE PRESERVE
Holbrook Island Sanctuary encompasses diverse ecosystems including forests, meadows, wetlands, and shoreline, providing varied hiking experiences within reach of Frankfort. The sanctuary offers several miles of well-maintained trails that showcase the region's rich biodiversity and natural features. Hikers can enjoy peaceful surroundings while potentially spotting local wildlife in this protected natural area.