Machias MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Machias, Maine.
1. Machias River Heritage Trail
RIVERSIDE WILDERNESS PATH
The Machias River Heritage Trail begins at the parking area and traverses through the woods 0.5 miles to the first bridge before following the river for 2.5 miles. The trail connects to the Down East Sunrise Trail at an impassable marsh area, allowing hikers to follow the Down East Sunrise Trail back to the parking area. Hikers should be aware that the trail is susceptible to flooding and is unsafe for hiking when flooded.
2. Hemlock Trail
SHORT SCENIC RIVER VIEW
The Hemlock Trail is accessible from a small parking lot on the Down East Sunrise Trail, just east of the Trestle Bridge where the Down East Sunrise Trail crosses the Machias River. This short 0.1-mile round trip trail offers beautiful views of the Machias River, the trestle bridge, and large hemlock trees. The trail provides an excellent opportunity for bicyclists and ATV users to park and enjoy a short walk along the river.
3. Machias River Preserve Trail Network
COMMUNITY FOREST TRAILS
The Machias River Preserve features a 5.5-mile network of interconnecting hiking trails that provide scenic and recreational access to the river and the Down East Sunrise Trail. This 917-acre preserve is the largest property that Downeast Coastal Conservancy has protected to date and is managed as a community forest. The preserve balances low-impact forestry, outdoor recreation, wildlife habitat, educational opportunities, and river protection.
4. Long Point Trail
COASTAL PENINSULA LOOP
Long Point Trail in Machiasport begins along a dirt road before leading to a more rustic path that eventually loops around the rugged peninsula, totaling just over three miles. The trail offers sweeping views to the islands of outer Machias Bay and opportunities for wildlife observation including seals, bald eagles, osprey, songbirds, and shorebirds. Visitors can access the trail via a 12-car parking lot located 1.8 miles down East Side Road.
5. Fairy Head Loop Trail
COASTAL WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
The Fairy Head Loop Trail combines the Coastal Trail and Inland Trail to create a challenging 9.7-mile loop in Cutler Coast Public Land near East Machias. This trail is considered the best hike near East Machias, offering spectacular ocean views and diverse coastal terrain. Hikers can experience the rugged beauty of Maine's Bold Coast while traversing through forests, meadows, and along dramatic cliff edges.
6. Down East Sunrise Trail
MULTI-USE RAIL TRAIL
The Down East Sunrise Trail connects with multiple hiking paths in the Machias area, including the Machias River Heritage Trail and Hemlock Trail. The trail is a converted rail corridor that offers opportunities for hiking, biking, ATV riding, and other recreational activities through the scenic Down East region. Access points are available throughout Machias, making it a convenient option for outdoor enthusiasts.
7. Ellsworth Trail
FAMILY-FRIENDLY URBAN PATH
The Ellsworth Trail is one of the best-rated trails accessible from the Machias area, offering a gentle terrain suitable for walkers and bikers of all skill levels. This well-maintained path winds through Ellsworth's scenic areas, providing a pleasant outdoor experience without venturing too far from urban amenities. The trail is particularly popular for family outings and casual recreational activities close to the Machias region.
8. Sipayik Trail
CULTURAL HERITAGE PATH
The Sipayik Trail near Machias offers hikers a unique opportunity to experience both natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area. This trail traverses through land with significance to the Passamaquoddy Tribe, blending outdoor recreation with historical appreciation. Visitors can enjoy scenic views while learning about the indigenous history of the Down East region.
9. Acadia Carriage Roads
HISTORIC GRAVEL PATHWAYS
The Acadia Carriage Roads offer stunning views with wide, smooth gravel paths perfect for hiking and biking not far from the Machias region. The Around the Mountain road is especially beautiful with wonderful granite bridges to cross and views of the sea, Somes Sound, and across Frenchman's Bay. With 45 miles of carriage roads to explore, visitors from Machias can enjoy multiple day trips to this world-class destination.
10. Eagle Lake Loop
SCENIC LAKE CIRCUIT
The Eagle Lake Loop is a super nice trail circling the pristine waters of Eagle Lake within day-trip distance from Machias. This trail combines the natural beauty of lake views with the historical significance of Acadia's carriage road system. Hikers from the Machias area will appreciate the well-maintained paths and the opportunity to experience one of Maine's most beloved national parks.