Northport MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Northport, Maine.
1. McLellan Poor Preserve
OLD CONIFER FOREST TRAILS
McLellan Poor Preserve offers several trail options including Peggity's Path (1.4 miles round-trip) and Route 1 Trail (0.9 mile round-trip) through densely forested land. The preserve features old conifer forests, stream crossings, and distinct ravines throughout the landscape. Hikers can enjoy steep ravines, streams draining into the Little River Reservoir, and a granite bench overlooking fields.
2. Newman and Breslin Preserve
MODERATE WOODLAND HIKING
Newman and Breslin Preserve spans 230 acres with a 1.1-mile one-way moderate trail. The preserve is ideal for hiking, birding, and snowshoeing activities year-round. Located on Beech Hill Road in Northport, this preserve is part of the Coastal Mountains Land Trust network.
3. St. Clair Preserve
SERENE NATURE ESCAPE
St. Clair Preserve encompasses 309 acres of natural beauty with a short 0.15-mile trail for visitors to explore. The preserve is perfect for birding, fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing throughout different seasons. Located on Knights Pond Road in Northport, this preserve offers a peaceful natural setting for outdoor enthusiasts.
4. Point Lookout Hiking Trails
EXTENSIVE CABIN-ADJACENT NETWORKS
Point Lookout offers an extensive network of hiking trails spanning over 4 miles for visitors to explore. The trails are conveniently accessible just steps away from cozy cabins, making it ideal for vacationers. Hikers can enjoy the natural beauty of the Maine coastline while traversing these well-maintained paths.
5. Ragged Mountain Trail
EXTENSIVE MULTI-USE NETWORK
Ragged Mountain Trail is part of a 2,645-acre preserve connecting to over 30 miles of trails spanning Camden, Rockport, and Hope. The trail system offers many loop options ranging from 2 miles to 10 miles, accommodating different skill levels and time constraints. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing throughout the year.
6. Sides Preserve
EASY LOOP TRAIL
Sides Preserve is a compact 9-acre nature area featuring a 0.4-mile easy loop trail. Located on Route 17 in Rockport, the preserve is ideal for hiking, birding, fishing, and snowshoeing activities. This small but scenic preserve offers an accessible outdoor experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.
7. Beehive Trail
ICONIC ACADIA CLIMB
Beehive Trail is a short but challenging 0.6-mile hike that offers incredible views of the surrounding Acadia National Park landscape. The trail features iron rungs, ladders, and steep granite steps that make it an exciting climbing experience rather than a simple walk. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic vistas of Sand Beach and the Atlantic Ocean at the summit.
8. Ocean Path
SCENIC COASTAL WALKING
Ocean Path is a relatively easy 2.1-mile trail that follows the dramatic coastline of Acadia National Park. The path provides access to famous landmarks like Thunder Hole, Monument Cove, and Otter Cliff while offering continuous views of the rugged Maine shore. Hikers can enjoy the sound of crashing waves and the opportunity to explore tide pools along this scenic route.
9. Cadillac North Ridge Trail
SUMMIT ASCENT ROUTE
Cadillac North Ridge Trail is a 2.1-mile route that leads to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point in Acadia National Park. The trail offers progressively expanding views of Frenchman Bay, Bar Harbor, and the Porcupine Islands as hikers ascend through pine forests and over granite slopes. From the summit, visitors can enjoy 360-degree views and are often among the first in the United States to see the sunrise during certain times of the year.
10. Sargent South Ridge Trail
CHALLENGING MOUNTAIN TREK
Sargent South Ridge Trail is a challenging 2.8-mile route with an impressive 1,185-foot elevation gain leading to one of Acadia National Park's prominent peaks. The trail offers a quieter hiking experience than some of the park's more popular routes while still delivering spectacular views. Hikers traverse through varied terrain including forested sections and exposed granite before reaching the rewarding summit vistas.