Hanover MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Hanover, Maine.
1. Grafton Notch State Park
RUGGED MOUNTAIN WILDERNESS
Grafton Notch State Park is a popular hiking destination known for its dramatic mountain scenery and a wide range of trails suitable for all skill levels. The park features iconic spots such as Screw Auger Falls and challenging routes like the Eyebrow Loop and parts of the Appalachian Trail. Hikers enjoy breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife throughout the park.
2. Baldpate Mountain (Appalachian Trail)
SUMMIT WITH PANORAMIC VIEWS
Baldpate Mountain, accessible via the Appalachian Trail, offers hikers a strenuous trek leading to outstanding panoramic views from its twin summits. The route is renowned for its open ridgeline walks, rocky ascents, and scenic high-elevation landscapes. This challenging hike is a favorite for those seeking an adventurous day on one of Maine's best peaks.
3. Table Rock Trail
ICONIC CLIFF OVERLOOK
Table Rock Trail provides a rewarding, moderately difficult climb to a dramatic cliff ledge with expansive views over Grafton Notch and the surrounding White Mountains. The rocky viewpoint is especially popular in the fall, when colorful foliage blankets the valleys below. This trail is known for its quick elevation gain and its status as a must-hike in the region.
4. Richardson Public Reserved Land
LAKES AND FORESTS HIKE
Richardson Public Reserved Land features a network of hiking trails weaving through remote forests and along the shores of picturesque lakes. The area is ideal for those seeking a peaceful wilderness experience with opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and boating. Its trails range from easy lakeside walks to more rugged backcountry explorations.
5. Mahoosuc Public Reserved Land
CHALLENGING BACKCOUNTRY TERRAIN
Mahoosuc Public Reserved Land is famous among hikers for its rugged, remote terrain and sections of the Appalachian Trail, including the notoriously tough Mahoosuc Notch. The area offers dramatic ridges, deep forests, and clear mountain streams, appealing to experienced hikers and backpackers. It is celebrated as one of the most challenging and beautiful hiking regions in the northeast.
6. Mt. Will Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY SUMMIT LOOP
Mt. Will Trail offers a relatively short but scenic loop with moderate elevation gain, making it suitable for families and less-experienced hikers. The trail leads to two different viewpoints, each offering impressive vistas over the Androscoggin River Valley. Its accessibility and rewarding views have made it an area favorite.
7. Rumford White Cap Mountain
BERRY FIELDS AND VIEWS
Rumford White Cap Mountain is renowned for its open summit with sweeping 360-degree views, especially striking during blueberry season when the upper slopes are covered in wild berries. The moderately challenging trail travels through mixed forests and rocky ledges. Hikers are rewarded with expansive vistas of the Mahoosuc Range and the White Mountains.
8. Puzzle Mountain Trail
GREENERY AND ROCK GLADES
Puzzle Mountain Trail guides hikers through lush forests, mountain streams, and open rock glades on the way to a summit known for its unique geological features. The summit provides splendid views of the surrounding Mahoosuc Range and the Androscoggin Valley. The trail is known for its varied terrain and wildflower displays in spring and summer.
9. Howard Pond Overlook
SERENE POND VISTA
Howard Pond Overlook offers a quiet, lesser-known trail leading to a scenic view above Howard Pond, perfect for those seeking solitude and relaxation. The trail is short and accessible, making it suitable for a quick outing or a peaceful picnic spot. Its proximity to Hanover provides an easy escape into nature for residents and visitors alike.
10. Appalachian Trail - Grafton Notch Section
CLASSIC LONG-DISTANCE ROUTE
The Grafton Notch section of the Appalachian Trail is a renowned stretch that draws hikers from across the country with its rugged climbs, sweeping summits, and breathtaking scenery. This portion passes over major peaks like Old Speck and Baldpate Mountain. Its combination of challenge and natural beauty makes it a top choice for both day hikers and backpackers in the Hanover area.