Phippsburg MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Phippsburg, Maine.
1. Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area
BEACH AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area offers a 3.8-mile out-and-back trail that leads hikers over Morse Mountain to the pristine Seawall Beach. The hike features diverse ecosystems, including coastal forests, salt marshes, and panoramic ocean views. Its combination of natural beauty and accessibility makes it one of the most popular hiking destinations in Phippsburg.
2. Basin Preserve
COASTAL TRAILS AND WILDLIFE
The Basin Preserve provides miles of scenic hiking trails through forests, wetlands, and along the shore of the Basin, a unique tidal embayment. Visitors can explore a variety of habitats, spot local wildlife, and enjoy views of the coastal landscape. The preserve is managed by The Nature Conservancy and offers peaceful, varied terrain for hikers of all levels.
3. Wilbur Preserve at Cox's Head
LEDGE VIEWS OF KENNEBEC
Wilbur Preserve at Cox's Head features a short hike leading to open ledges with stunning views over the Kennebec River. The preserve is a quiet retreat ideal for a quick walk, picnic, and soaking in the coastal scenery. The trail's accessibility and panoramic outlook make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
4. Sprague Pond Preserve
POND VIEWS AND FOREST
Sprague Pond Preserve offers forest trails that circle a tranquil pond, providing hikers with peaceful water views and opportunities for wildlife observation. The area is managed by the Phippsburg Land Trust and is known for its serene setting. It is a great option for nature lovers seeking a moderate, scenic walk.
5. Noble Hill Preserve
HISTORIC FORESTED HILLSIDE
Noble Hill Preserve is a 20-acre forested area donated to the Phippsburg Land Trust, featuring gentle hills and mature woods. The preserve offers peaceful trails that are perfect for quiet walks and local history enthusiasts. It is especially popular for its accessibility and connection to the community's conservation efforts.
6. Center Pond Preserve
LAKESIDE WOODLAND TRAILS
Center Pond Preserve encompasses 253 acres bordering Center Pond and features wooded trails through classic Maine forest. Hikers can enjoy views of the quiet pond, spot birds, and immerse themselves in the natural surroundings. Its loop trails make it suitable for walks of various lengths and skill levels.
7. Bijhouwer Forest Easement
WATERFALLS AND FOREST
Bijhouwer Forest Easement is a 73-acre woodland that draws visitors with its picturesque waterfalls and giant boulders. The landscape provides a classic Maine forest hiking experience and is ideal for short adventures and exploration. Its trails highlight both geological interest and quiet natural beauty.
8. Mica Mine Trail
HISTORIC MINING SITE
Mica Mine Trail is part of the larger Basin Preserve, featuring a walk through woods to a historic mica mine site. The trail provides a window into the area's industrial history alongside beautiful natural surroundings. It is well-suited for both educational outings and leisurely hikes.
9. Hermit Island Campground Trails
OCEANFRONT ISLAND WALKS
Hermit Island Campground boasts miles of walking paths and dirt roads along the island's shoreline, offering dramatic coastal vistas and access to sandy beaches. The trails are open to the public for hiking in the off-season, providing a quiet and beautiful place to explore. Hermit Island is a beloved destination for ocean lovers and hikers alike.
10. Perkins Farm Trail and Fort Baldwin
HISTORY AND RIVER VIEWS
Perkins Farm Trail leads hikers to Fort Baldwin, offering a 1.2-mile route through fields and woods to historic fortifications overlooking the Kennebec River. The trail combines natural beauty with the chance to explore coastal Maine's military history. It is a rewarding short hike for families and history enthusiasts.