Guilford MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Guilford, Maine.
1. Guilford Memorial River Walk
SCENIC RIVERSIDE STROLL
Guilford Memorial River Walk is a pleasant 1-mile trail that follows the Piscataquis River through Guilford's riverfront and downtown areas. The trail is divided into two sections and features beautiful vistas of the river as it winds through the area. Hikers can enjoy the peaceful setting under a red oak canopy as they explore this accessible walking path.
2. Borestone Mountain
PANORAMIC SUMMIT VIEWS
Borestone Mountain is one of Maine's most popular hiking destinations, offering a moderately strenuous climb culminating in spectacular 360-degree views. The trail system includes the 1.1-mile Base Trail through mature forest, followed by the 1.0-mile Summit Trail that climbs steeply to East and West Peaks. Hikers can also explore the Fox Pen Loop Trail and Peregrine Trail, which provide additional scenic vistas and natural features.
3. Gulf Hagas
GRAND CANYON OF MAINE
Gulf Hagas, known as the Grand Canyon of Maine, offers a dramatic hiking experience through a rugged gorge carved by the West Branch of the Pleasant River. The trail system features multiple waterfalls, steep canyon walls, and pristine forest environments. Hikers can experience this natural wonder via the rim trail that provides numerous overlooks of the spectacular slate canyon.
4. Wilson's Falls
CASCADING WATER BEAUTY
Wilson's Falls is a picturesque natural attraction featuring cascading waterfalls in the Piscataquis County region near Guilford. The falls are accessible via a moderate hiking trail that leads visitors through lush Maine woodland. Visitors can enjoy the sight and sound of rushing water as it tumbles down rocky outcroppings in this tranquil setting.
5. Lodge-to-Lodge Trail
RUSTIC BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURE
The Lodge-to-Lodge Trail to Gorman Chairback offers a unique hiking experience connecting rustic lodges in Maine's backcountry. This trail system is part of the Appalachian Mountain Club's Maine Woods Initiative, providing both day hiking and multi-day trekking possibilities. Hikers can enjoy pristine wilderness, mountain views, and comfortable overnight accommodations along this well-maintained route.
6. Little Wilson Falls
DRAMATIC WATERFALL HIKE
Little Wilson Falls features a dramatic 40-foot waterfall dropping into a slate gorge, accessible via a section of the Appalachian Trail. The moderately challenging hike leads through beautiful Maine forest before revealing the impressive waterfall and swimming hole below. Visitors can experience one of the most photogenic waterfalls in the region while enjoying a portion of the famous long-distance trail.
7. Barren Mountain
CHALLENGING APPALACHIAN TRAIL SECTION
Barren Mountain offers a challenging hiking experience along a section of the Appalachian Trail with rewarding panoramic views from its summit. The trail climbs steadily through dense forest before opening up to exposed ridgelines and spectacular vistas of the surrounding wilderness. Hikers can explore historic features including an old fire tower foundation and enjoy the solitude of this less-traveled mountain peak.
8. Kineo Mountain
MOOSEHEAD LAKE LANDMARK
Kineo Mountain rises dramatically from Moosehead Lake, creating one of Maine's most distinctive natural landmarks. The mountain features multiple hiking trails leading to spectacular views of Maine's largest lake and surrounding wilderness areas. Accessible by water taxi from Rockwood, this unique peninsula mountain offers hikers geological wonders including one of the largest formations of rhyolite in the world.
9. Katahdin Iron Works
HISTORIC INDUSTRIAL TRAILS
Katahdin Iron Works combines historical significance with scenic hiking trails through a former 19th-century iron-producing complex. Visitors can explore preserved blast furnace and charcoal kiln structures while hiking through the surrounding forest trails. The area connects to several wilderness hiking routes including the Appalachian Trail and trails to Gulf Hagas.
10. Big Moose Mountain
CLASSIC MAINE PEAK
Big Moose Mountain offers a classic Maine hiking experience with a challenging trail leading to expansive views of Moosehead Lake and surrounding mountains. The 3.8-mile trail to the summit features interesting historical remnants of the original fire lookout tower that once stood at the peak. Hikers are rewarded with some of the region's finest panoramic views after navigating through diverse forest environments and moderate elevation gain.