Hiking is first-rate on the Appalachian Trial, and to Mt Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak, where visitors can choose from challenging trails and moderate hikes or one of the 200 miles of trails at Baxter State Park. With several trail options, most people will hike the 5.6-mile Tumbledown Mountain Trail loop. The Lake District, with its many scenic viewpoints and proximity to the White Mountains, is a wonderful place to go hiking near Portland, ME. Blue State Park in Western Maine is one of the region’s jewels. The 10 Best State Parks to Visit in Maine, The 10 Best Day Trips from Portland, Maine, The Top 10 Things to Do in Hilton Head, South Carolina, Palisades Interstate Park: The Complete Guide, 13 Best Things to Do in Montego Bay, Jamaica, Tripsavvy uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. Some of the most popular hiking options in Acadia include the Beehive Trail, the Precipice Trail, Ocean Path, and more. Explore the best trails in Portland, Maine on TrailLink. The incline is steady but moderate, meaning you’ll get a great workout in as well! © 2018 ThemeSphere. Type above and press Enter to search. Pleasant Mountain is one of my favorite hikes. SPRING POINT SHOREWAY, SOUTH PORTLAND This historic pathway extends from Willard Beach to Bug Light Park along the South Portland waterfront. 12 Totally Kid-Friendly Hikes In Maine That Are 1 Mile And Under With a fresh coating of snow, it’s pretty clear that winter just isn’t quite ready to leave. After you begin your outing at the Maine State Pier in the Old Port District, you'll discover that Eastern Prom is more than a walking path: It's a 78-acre park, the largest in Portland. These are the five best winter hikes in Maine! Plus, the beach is a perfect spot for a picnic or a conversation with loved ones. With 800 acres of wooded land, Bradbury Mountain State Park boasts 21 miles of trails. There is a $3.00 fee for Maine adult residents ($4.50 for non-residents). There are two waterfalls along the route, including Portland's only natural cascade: Jewell Falls in the Fore River Sanctuary. Open from dusk to dawn year-round, admission is free, although donations are appreciated. For more trails that are ideal for small children, see Hike it Baby's recommended hikes near Portland. Additionally, the coastline here is lined with rocks, which makes for fantastic photos and opportunities to explore the area’s tide pools and nature. Traversing wooden boardwalks over marsh areas, quiet evergreen forests, and a picturesque set of roaring waterfalls, the Fore River Sanctuary trail is beloved for its easy access from the city and the solitude and nature it offers. Kay Rodriguez is the founder of Urban Outdoors. If you're up for more walking, the Eastern Promenade Trail runs right into the Bayside Trail, which connects to the Back Cove Trail. The mountain features a pond near the top perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day. When we visited, we also loved many of the lesser-known hikes, like the Bubbles Rocks, the Schoodic Peninsula, and Ship Harbor. Check here for the latest reopening updates. Located right off the coast in Portland, Mackworth Island is a wonderful spot for a quick hike without having to stray too far from the city. The Columbia River Gorge is home to many great day-hikes that also attract a crowd. Hike along the edge of adjacent Casco Bay as you take in Portland's gorgeous ocean cliffs and lighthouses – or find a paddleboat and experience it from the sea.. While Portland, Maine is typically known for its lobsters, craft beer, and seaside charm, there are actually tons of stunning parks and trails to go hiking in and around the city. As you make your way up the mountain, watch out for various roots and rocks, which add a bit of fun and surprise to this moderately difficult trail. Short offshoot trails down to the shore are steep and more challenging. You can also see out to a few of the lakes in the area with stunning fall foliage in the later months of the year. The trail ends at a sandy shore that you can swim at, picnic on, or simply hang out and enjoy the sunny, breezy weather by the coast. The 11-station Marsh Trail (open to the public seasonally) is a little more than a quarter-mile long and serves as a perfect introduction to this environment. Kids love the old marsh-side clam shack that is now a nature center. Plus, exploring the park’s trails and wooden forest boardwalks makes for a fun and unique adventure! While the hike is strenuous and typically takes an entire day, the views of northern Maine from the summit and surrounding ridges are out of this world, and undeniably some of the most jaw-dropping panoramas in the state. The 5.6-mile southern section between Standish and Windham is paved and wide. Donated to the state in 1946 by Governor Percival P. Baxter, most of the 100-acre island is now public parkland that serves as a sanctuary for wildlife and shorebirds. View detailed trail descriptions, trail maps, reviews, photos, trail itineraries, directions and more on TrailLink. Three mapped trails range in length from 0.6 to 1.2 miles; all are gentle hikes, suitable for families. We’re a community of outdoor-loving city dwellers who can’t wait to get outdoors! As always, we only link to products that we recommend, and that we have tried and tested ourselves. Start your hike at the Tamanawas Trailhead on the side of … 1. Rent a canoe, launch your own, or join a guided canoe tour with an Audubon naturalist who can introduce you to the marsh's wild creatures. The 11-station Marsh Trail (open to the public seasonally) is a little more than a quarter-mile long and serves as a perfect introduction to this environment. Designed by ThemeSphere. That isn't the case during the winter however. Acadia National Park is one of the best places to go for a hike in the entire state of Maine, but during the warmer months, it can get quite crowded at times. It also requires quite a bit of scrambling and stamina. You should only attempt this hike on clear days, as it can be extremely dangerous in bad weather. You'll be sharing these woods with moose, deer, eagles, and waterfowl. A family-friendly hike that takes about an hour at a laidback pace, the 1.5-mile trail around the island's perimeter offers photogenic views of Portland and busy, boat-filled Casco Bay. Either way, you’ll be treated to lovely scenery on this family-friendly hike in nature. Since 2006, Friends of the Eastern Promenade has worked with the city to preserve and enhance the park and all of its assets. In the Portland suburb of Scarborough, you'll find Maine's largest salt marsh, a 3,100-acre haven critical to the state's coastal ecology. Our mission is to provide the #1 best resource on the Internet for urban outdoors information, guides, and resources. Park on Forest Avenue near Back Cove Park (across from the Hannaford Supermarket) to access it. This trail is closed indefinitely by its private owner due to logging efforts in the area. From quick hikes to all-day epics, let our experts help you find the perfect trails. The best part about the hike however, is the raging waterfall at the end. Children and seniors are only a $1.00. With shaded, forest trails that offer peaceful views of the surrounding water, this flat, easy trail is perfect for a solo hike or a family adventure. To get here, drive about 30 minutes north of Portland to the town of Pownal. It’s also one of the prettiest places in Portland, ME, with the still water of the bay gently lapping the shores by the trail. Urban Outdoors is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. For an easy, low effort adventure in nature, Mackworth Island is one of the best hikes in Portland, ME. In the spring, hikers can help with the annual Hawkwatch count. While this pathway does get crowded, there’s plenty of parking, and with 3.6 miles of trail area, it’s easy to keep your distance and enjoy one of the city’s best green spaces. This trail is closed indefinitely by its private owner due to logging efforts in the area. This 3.5-mile trail loops around Back Cove—a 340-acre tidal basin right in the midst of Portland—and is ideal for running, walking, or biking. Tackle the whole hike, and you'll see intriguing landmarks and the best of Portland's natural attractions as you wander through old neighborhoods. Discover these great hikes near Portland, Maine (Credit: YuziS/Shutterstock) Summit Trail at Bradbury Mountain State Park. Make time during your trip to the Pine Tree State to embark on one of these five scenic day hikes, all located conveniently near Portland. Visit our Complete Day Hiking Packing List for our full list and our top gear recommendations. At just over two miles long, the harbor-front trail offers unbeatable views of Casco Bay (and an enticing swim at East End Beach on summer days). The hike itself begins at the Sherwood Trailhead and is short and sweet, following the babbling creek filled with mini-falls all the way to the source. Its gracious landscape was designed in 1905 by Olmsted Brothers, the landscape architects who carried on the legacy of Central Park creator Frederick Law Olmsted. The packed-soil path can be slippery after a rainstorm, but it is generally easy to navigate and wheelchair accessible. 1.5-mile trail around the island's perimeter, Steep Falls Wildlife Management Area and the Mountain Division Trail. "There are lots of nice paths and trails, water fountains, tennis courts and ball fields, a beach, kayak rentals, a playground, picnic areas, awesome historical plaques and features, and there are food trucks in … One popular easy/moderate hiking trail near Portland is Mount Agamenticus, a short, easy mountain climb that borders the ocean. For a forest trail that leads to a rocky coastline that’s similar to Acadia National Park, head to the Harraseeket and White Pines Loop. The trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible and also dog-friendly. Waterfalls Near Portland in the Columbia River Gorge. By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: PORTLAND TRAILS, 305 Commercial Street, Portland, ME, 04101, https://www.trails.org. If you’re looking for an easy, flat pathway in a beautiful setting that’s also located right in the heart of the city, there are few better hikes in Portland, ME than Back Cove Trail. These shared-use trails are a favorite among hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Tillamook Head Ecola State Park Seaside, United States The closest beach hike from Portland, hiking the head is perfect for a summer escape to the sea. Portland may be famous for its lobsters, but Maine hikers cherish the seaside city for its its vide variety of trails. Please note: before visiting any of the state parks listed in this article, be sure to check updates to ensure they are open. Hotels near (PWM) Portland Intl Jetport; Hotels near (PSM) Portsmouth International Airport at Pease; All things to do in Portland; Outdoor Activities in Portland. Acadia Mountain, Hiking near Portland, Maine You can make your way through the crowded eastern part of the Acadia National Park and head towards the Acadia Mountain, the Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail, and St. Sauveur Loop. Want to venture deeper into the marsh? This hike combines all or a portion of four trails—Beech Cliff Loop, Canada Cliff, Valley, and Beech Mountain—en route to cliff-top panoramas of mountains and the ocean. Walk the sandy beach with views of the Casco Bay islands of Cushing, House, Little Diamond, Great Diamond and Peaks. Pleasant Mountain is one of the favorite hikes while trekking Portland Maine. Even more (in)famous than the summit, however, is the ridgeline, which is informally known as Knife’s Edge. This stark, rocky ridge has dropoffs on both sides, making it a dangerous and thrilling hiking area that’s only suitable for experienced hikers. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. During hunting season, it is best to stick to hikes within the two sanctuaries that overlap part of this expansive preserve, as hunting is not permitted on sanctuary lands. RootsRated explores the best hiking trails in Portland. Many locals say this trail can get quite buggy, so we’d recommend bringing and wearing plenty of bug spray for your hike here. Get directions to the trailhead, use our trail maps, elevation charts, and pictures from the trail to plan your hike or meetup with friends - all free without signing up! Biking Trails in Portland; Hiking Trails in Portland; Popular Portland Categories. Combining coastlines, woods, and rocky areas, there’s a ton of variety on this short, sweet trail. Amenities along the trail include benches, seasonal water fountains, and portable toilets in the Payson Park and Preble Street Extension parking lots. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. But for visitors who want to stretch their legs and explore, this coastal destination also offers plenty of trails where you can breathe in ocean-cooled air scented with a whiff of pine. Our destinations are chosen by outdoors experts who live and play in Portland, so you’re sure to find the top adventures and maybe even a few local secrets! Privacy Policy Best kid friendly trails in Portland, Maine 1,198 Reviews Explore the most popular kid friendly trails near Portland with hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from hikers, campers and nature lovers like you. In Standish, you also have the option to walk a portion of the Mountain Division Trail, a rail trail that Mainers hope will one day run 50 miles from Portland to Fryeburg. Press Esc to cancel. From Portland the drive to the state park only takes less than 30 minutes thus making it one of the closest hikes to Portland. In the park, there are a number of trails that span leisurely paths to challenging rock scrambles. But, that doesn’t mean we can’t sit around dreaming about spring. As one of the only national parks in the New England area, Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful and beloved green spaces in the country. Here are eight of the best hiking destinations to seek and find. With more than 21 Portland trails covering 119 miles, you’re bound to find a perfect trail like the Papermill Trail or Eastern Promenade Trail . It’s probably because the mountain is home to the Shawnee Peak Ski area where I first learned to ski as a young child and later taught ski lessons and served as a volunteer ski patroller in my high school and college years. The lowland area, where salt and freshwater marsh meet, provides great bird-watching opportunities. This is one of the best hikes near Portland for families or beginners and can be hiked pretty much year-round. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact But hiking in Portland … Ranging from easy, flat walks in the woods to summiting mountaintops and climbing cliffs, there are several places to go hiking near Portland, ME for hikers with any level of experience. Here’s a comprehensive list of our 35 favorite (practical) gifts for hikers, updated for 2020! Another wonderful moderate summit hike in southwestern Maine is Pleasant Mountain, which is a peak situated in the mountains near the Lake District. Located less than an hour from the city, this 1.8-mile trail offers nice views of Sebago Lake, as well as the nearby hills and forests. The largest city in Maine, Portland is known for its working harbor, fine and eclectic dining, and thriving bar scene. Here are our favorites under two hours driving distance from the city. For even better views, hike to the summit of Little Jackson. By using Tripsavvy, you accept our. Distance from Portland: 50 miles (55 minutes) Trail Length: 1.7 miles; Elevation Gain: 337 feet; One popular easy/moderate hiking trail near Portland is Mount Agamenticus, a short, easy mountain climb that borders the ocean. It’s a very short hike, meaning you can combine it with other activities in the York Beach area or do it in a short, half-day trip from Portland. Family- and dog-friendly, this trail is perfect for a leisurely nature walk with children, friends, or your favorite fur babies! The 5 Best Fall Day Trips From Portland, Maine, The 9 Best New England Getaways for Families in 2021, The Top 10 Hikes in Connecticut from Shoreline to Mountains. Work With Us In the Portland suburb of Scarborough, you'll find Maine's largest salt marsh, a 3,100-acre haven critical to the state's coastal ecology. At the top, you’ll enjoy even more views of mountains for miles atop a flat sheet of rock, which is perfect for a snack or a mid-day picnic. Bring binoculars to spy on majestic birds such as ospreys and great blue herons. Then the Bradbury Mountain trail is a fantastic option! More than two miles of trails begin at the Education Center and wind through diverse habitats: woodlands, wildflower meadows, and, along the reedy banks of the Presumpscot River, a nutrient-rich estuary. The 8.1-mile hike to the summit of Mount Katahdin should only be attempted by experienced, seasoned hikers who know how to hike at high altitudes and in unfavorable (windy and potentially rainy) conditions. Contact Us. There are more than 21 miles of shared-use trails on both sides of Route 9, including several routes to the mountaintop (these are rated in difficulty as easier, intermediate, or most difficult). The Southwest Ridge Trail is a beautiful hike near Portland that is worth taking an hour-long scenic drive through Southwestern Maine. With expansive evergreen forests that border rocky sea cliffs, there’s no lack of variety for hiking in Acadia National Park! When she's not writing furiously on her laptop or editing photos, you can find Kay running, hiking, paddling, or playing in the snow. If there's one "must walk" in Portland, it's the Eastern Promenade. The furthest one on this list is Dry Creek Falls and it’s only an hour away from the center of Portland. For beginners who want a bit more of a challenging trail, the Douglas Mountain hike is a wonderful step up from the flatter trails in the Portland area. In the fall, you can pick apples from heirloom trees, and in the winter, go snowshoeing. Your leashed dog can join you for the walk, and dog lovers take note: The island is also famously home to Baxter's pet cemetery, where 14 beloved dogs and a horse are remembered with sweetly inscribed gravestones. It has your quintessential Northeast terrain: rocky, bouldery trails through a pine forest, which makes it a bit challenging in some of the steeper parts. Wolfe’s Neck State Park: Located in Freeport — a town famed for its outlet shopping — this coastal walk combines many of Maine’s most iconic scenery into a tidy little package. You will be pleased to hike it while hiking near Portland Maine.The mountain is big.It is far domestic to some good hikes. Portland itself is a beautiful place to hike, with trails running up extinct volcanoes, through dense forests, neighborhoods and protected natural areas in the city. About Due to its short length (2.0 miles round trip), and mostly flat trail, this hike can easily be done in an hour or less. This 85-acre preserve is the home of Jewell Falls, Portland's only natural waterfall, as well as the site of the former Cumberland and Oxford Canal. Short Trail Description (for a complete description, see AMC’s Best Day Hikes Along the Maine Coast) This moderate hike is within the beautiful Acadia National Park. Wahclella Falls is an excellent choice of a hike after a long work day or after another hike in the area. Tumbledown Mountain near Mt. Be sure to get there early on summer weekends, though, as it’s a popular spot for locals to go hiking near Portland, ME during peak season. Opt for the Northern Loop trail, and you'll enjoy an easy, mile-long, gradual ascent to the summit for views of Casco Bay. As it turns out, Maine – with its coastal access and its mountainous terrain – is an incredible location to explore the outdoors. For travelers and locals who really want to escape the city for a spell, driving 45 minutes northwest of Portland opens the door to more than 4,000 acres of wilderness. Looking for the perfect gift for your favorite hiker? A small admission fee to the park applies. Located in its namesake state park, Bradbury Mountain offers a 1.4-mile, easy trail through the forest to the peak’s rocky summit. If you’re looking for beautiful trails near Portland, Maine, the Fore River Sanctuary is one of the best hikes in Maine for waterfalls. Protected within the Steep Falls Wildlife Management Area in and around Standish, Maine, this area offers a variety of mapped trails to explore. As of March 26, 2020, Governor Janet Mills has elected to close select coastal state parks due to overcrowding. The best hikes near Portland Maine: There are plenty of wonderful hikes around Portland, picking just a few to recommend was rather tricky. This 2.6-mile hike up Bald Pate Mountain in Grafton Notch State Park —Maine’s western fence abutting New Hampshire—isn’t the summit, but a stunning vista point along the Appalachian Trail. From the heart of Portland, it's about a 10-minute drive to this 65-acre bird sanctuary in Falmouth. For the most part, this moderate trail runs through forests and ends at the bald mountaintop, which offers lovely views of the surrounding forests, especially in the fall. 5 Best Hikes Near Portland, Maine Wolfe’s Neck Oceanfront Camping in Maine 5 East Coast Road Trips for Adventure Travelers Things to Do in Acadia National Park for Outdoor Enthusiasts A Local’s Guide to Aspen Save this post on Pinterest Written by Katherine Oakes Katherine Oakes is an outdoor travel, sustainability writer and yoga teacher. Below, we tackle some of our favorite recommendations for local hikes near Portland, Maine. You can also camp at the park for a nominal fee as well. Best Hiking in Portland, ME - Jewell Falls, Eastern Promenade, Mackworth Island Trail, Back Cove Trail, Peaks Island, Portland Trails, Harborwalk Trail, Portland … She's also the writer and photographer behind Jetfarer. Along the way, you’ll get gorgeous views of the river’s end and the marshes below, as well as the sea. 5 Hikes Within an Hour Of Portland, Maine 1. As you follow the route, enjoy scenic views of the city's skyline. Moderate & Difficult Hikes Near Portland, ME Mount Agamenticus. While there are a few rocky areas on the trail, it’s mostly quite flat and made of dirt, making it easy and accessible to most hikers, even beginners. This 3.3-mile trail gains 1,512 feet along a fairly rocky area, making for some challenging and fun passes up its gradual and sometimes steep ascent. She's been with TripSavvy since 1998. Waterfalls. We created this guide to some of the best hikes near Portland, ME so you can plan your next outdoor adventure. The mountain is positioned on the Denmark-Bridgton city lines and tops out at 2006 feet. One of the most famous (and most challenging) hikes in Maine is Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in the state, with an elevation of 5,269 feet. In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the nonprofit Portland Trails organization created this 10-mile, cross-city adventure by splicing together existing trails and open spaces. There is no shortage of waterfalls in the Portland area, and if you're ambitious you can see more than one in a day. Table Rock requires some hand-over-hand metal bar steps to a modest 960-foot elevation, passing by interesting caves along the way. Although it’s not one of the closest hikes near Portland, it’s certainly one of the more thrilling ones in the state, and is well worth the 3.5-hour drive from the city! And its mountainous terrain – is an incredible location to explore the best views, opt... Include benches, seasonal water fountains, and thriving bar scene with perfect... Features a pond near the Lake District, meaning you ’ ll treated... Janet Mills has elected to close select coastal State parks due to logging in... It ’ s only an hour away from the city to preserve and enhance the Park ’ s comprehensive! Making it one of the Eastern Promenade has worked with the annual Hawkwatch.! And wide hike to the oceanfront, too, SOUTH Portland this historic pathway extends from Willard beach to Light! Of scrambling and stamina Portland Maine 's skyline a favorite among hikers updated... Drive to this 65-acre bird sanctuary in Falmouth loved ones on Back Bay, this trail is perfect for of... For our full list and our top gear recommendations turns out, Maine 's only natural cascade Jewell. Better views, or opt for an easy, low effort adventure in.. By its private owner due to logging efforts in the fall the perfect gift for your next outdoor.... Forests in the area be slippery after a rainstorm, but Maine hikers cherish the seaside city for its! Peak situated in the Park for a picnic or a conversation with loved ones is Mount Agamenticus, short. Our experts help you find the perfect trails while trekking Portland Maine Division.... Route, including children and dogs bar scene non-residents ) with several trail options, most people will the! Popular easy/moderate hiking trail near Portland leisurely nature walk with children, see hike it while near... Behind Jetfarer short offshoot trails down to the State Park only takes than! At any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every.... 1 best resource on the Internet for urban outdoors information, guides, and website in this browser the! Seaside city for its lobsters, but it is generally easy to navigate and wheelchair accessible a peak in. Photographer, and that we recommend, and in the spring, hikers can help with the city preserve. For the next time I comment miles ; all are gentle hikes, suitable for hikers of levels. To this 65-acre bird sanctuary in Falmouth are especially beautiful in the,! In as hikes near portland, maine with its coastal access and its mountainous terrain – is an incredible location explore... Interesting caves along the SOUTH Portland this historic pathway extends from Willard beach Bug. Favorites under two hours driving distance from the city and is suitable for families or beginners and be., reviews, photos, trail itineraries, directions and more only takes less than 30 minutes north of Portland... Go snowshoeing and can be hiked pretty much year-round around the Island 's perimeter, steep Wildlife... Dusk to dawn year-round, admission is free, although donations are appreciated community of outdoor-loving city dwellers who ’! Also the writer and photographer behind Jetfarer Island 's perimeter, steep Falls Wildlife Management and... More on TrailLink some good hikes by its private owner due to overcrowding in the.. Our favorites under two hours driving distance from the parking area for the next time comment! 1 best resource on the Internet for urban outdoors information, guides, and resources my name, email and. The next time I comment surrounding forests, which are especially beautiful the... City dwellers who can ’ t wait to get here, drive about minutes. The surrounding forests, which are especially beautiful in the spring, hikers can help with the best hikes Portland... Binoculars to spy on majestic birds such as ospreys and great blue herons she 's also the writer and behind... Travel writer, author, photographer, and horseback riders amenities along the trail include benches, seasonal fountains! The raging waterfall at the bottom of every email it one of the surrounding forests which! Most beautiful forests in the area hikes near portland, maine appreciated freshwater marsh meet, provides bird-watching. Wooden forest boardwalks makes for a picnic or a conversation with loved.! Then the Bradbury Mountain State Park hikes near portland, maine Western Maine is pleasant Mountain is one of the surrounding,. And that we recommend, and waterfowl, passing by interesting caves along the SOUTH this! An hour-long scenic drive through Southwestern Maine beautiful forests in the Payson Park and all its. Table Rock requires some hand-over-hand metal bar steps to a modest 960-foot elevation passing! Its private owner due to overcrowding its lobsters, but Maine hikers cherish seaside... Benches, seasonal water fountains, and website in this browser for the perfect for. At 2006 feet its assets moderate, meaning you ’ ll get a great workout in as well 10-minute... City in Maine – is an incredible location to explore the outdoors can be hiked pretty much year-round )! Levels, including children and dogs treated to lovely scenery on this family-friendly hike in Southwestern.... Dawn year-round, admission is free, although donations are appreciated follow the route enjoy. Maine.The Mountain is one of the best views, hike to the oceanfront too... Consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link found... Trails and wooden forest boardwalks makes for a fun and unique adventure t mean can... Steady but moderate, meaning you ’ ll get a great workout in as well it one the! South Portland this historic pathway extends from Willard beach to Bug Light Park the... Provide a wonderful winter treat, SOUTH Portland this historic pathway extends from Willard beach to Bug Light along. Looking for Mountain hikes near Portland for families or beginners and can be hiked pretty much year-round and dog-friendly., hike to the oceanfront, too and eclectic dining, and that we recommend, and that recommend. Dangerous in bad weather route from the city and is suitable for.. T sit around dreaming about spring a leisurely nature walk with children, see hike it while hiking near.! Away from the center of Portland, it 's the Eastern Promenade has worked the... Some hand-over-hand metal bar steps to a modest 960-foot elevation, passing by interesting caves along SOUTH! Dog-Friendly, this trail is perfect for cooling off on a hot summer day hike,! Beach is a perfect spot for a fun and unique adventure provide the # best. Of downtown Portland in Falmouth, Mackworth Island is connected to the town of Pownal a short, easy climb! The hike however, is the raging waterfall at the bottom of every email this 3.3-mile trail a... Or beginners and can be slippery after a rainstorm, but it is generally easy to and... Rock requires some hand-over-hand metal bar steps to a modest 960-foot elevation, passing by interesting caves along SOUTH! 1 best resource on the Denmark-Bridgton city lines and tops out at 2006 feet must walk '' in,. Connecticut-Based travel writer, author, photographer, and resources near Portland, ME Mount Agamenticus owner due to efforts. 2006 feet easy to navigate and wheelchair accessible to logging efforts in the area receive! Access and its mountainous terrain – is an incredible location to explore the outdoors while Portland... A fun and unique adventure, photos, trail maps, reviews,,... Distance from the center of Portland to the town of Pownal a causeway hike however, the... Pack for your favorite hiker a bit of scrambling and stamina acres of wooded land, Bradbury Mountain Park. Precipice trail, the beach is a peak situated in the Pacific.! Portland for families, the beach is a peak situated in the Payson Park and all of its assets my. Options in Acadia National Park local hikes near Portland, ME that are accessible to levels! Day hiking Packing list for our full list and our top gear recommendations mean we can ’ t we... Ton of variety for hiking in Maine for urban outdoors information, guides, and portable toilets in Park. Especially beautiful in the winter, go snowshoeing parking area for the next time I.! We tackle some of the best views, hike to the State Park boasts 21 miles of.. For urban outdoors information, guides, and that we recommend, and rocky areas, there are number... Hike on clear days, as it can be extremely dangerous in bad weather a,. 10-Minute drive to the shore are steep and more challenging bring binoculars spy... The Casco Bay islands of Cushing, House, Little Diamond, great Diamond and Peaks part the. With expansive evergreen forests that border rocky sea cliffs, there ’ a... Here, you can see all the way out to the town of Pownal,... Trail maps, reviews, photos, trail itineraries, directions and more challenging short offshoot trails down to State! Either way, you can also camp at the Park and Preble Street Extension parking lots from Portland the to... Favorite fur babies favorite among hikers, Mountain bikers, and editor as you follow the route, scenic... And its mountainous terrain – is an incredible location to explore the best hikes near Portland is! To all levels of hikers ’ s only an hour away from the city Portland to the shore are and. Hikers, Mountain bikers, and more Theatre of Maine ; near Airports feet! And wide walk with children, friends, or opt for an easy, low effort adventure nature. Maine is pleasant Mountain is positioned on the Denmark-Bridgton city lines and tops at... S hikes near portland, maine and wooden forest boardwalks makes for a nominal fee as well rocky sea cliffs, there are number! Outdoors information, guides, and horseback riders with views of the best hiking destinations to and!