Whether you’re an experienced or novice hiker, the wilderness of Maine has something to offer for everyone. Maine is home to roaming moose, rocky shores, and the hardest portion of the Appalachian Trail. The northeatern-most state offers so many hiking trails that you won’t need to be caught in the tourist traps. Although after one of these hikes, you’ll definitely have earned yourself some lobster.
100-Mile Wilderness
The 100-Mile Wilderness is known for being the most difficult stretch of the Appalachian Trail. In order to complete this trek, you’ll have to budget for about eight to 10 days of a backpacking and camping trip. This should not be your first hike, as you’ll definitely need to prepare for it. Those who do take this trail on, the rewards are high as the sights to be seen are truly breathtaking. Over the course of the trail, you’ll find wooded mountains, lakes, valleys, and of course plenty of moose, lynxes, and loons.
Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail
You can drive up the Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail, or you could take the 7.5 mile hike instead. The trek is only moderately challenging and will weave you through open rocky ledges, woods, and eventually the summit. You start off at Blackwoods Campground, where you can also lodge for the night.
Knife Edge Trail
Knife Edge Trail is the perfect hike for an experienced backpacker. The excursion takes you up the tallest peak in Maine: Mount Katahdin, which stands at 5269 feet high. It is steep, and as spans over 1.1 miles, you will encounter loose rocks and drop-offs, so this trail is not for the faint of heart.
Angel Falls Trail
These 90 foot falls are considered by many to be the tallest in Maine, but nobody can argue that this area is extremely scenic. The trailhead is located 18 miles south of Oquossoc. The mile-long hike may be short, but it is also quite steep and will require you to cross a few streams as well, but the payoff is well worth it.
Mount Battie Trail
For a beautiful morning hike option, Mount Battie Trail is perfect, as it is a moderate 1.1 mile trek. It will take you to the waters of Penobscot Bay and offers excellent bird-watching. You’ll also get a great view of the Atlantic Ocean and the islands of offshore Maine.
Mount Kineo
Mount Kineo is found on Moosehead lake, which happens to be Maine’s largest lake. The mountain is connected to the main land by just a small narrow road. The hike begins by boat at the Rockwood boat launch to get to the trailhead. Once you reach the land, head to the Indian Trail to the top and then make your way down for incredible lake views.