Open Travel Guide
Hiking in Maine

Maine Hiking & Trekking Guide 2026

Explore the best hiking trails and trekking routes in Maine.

By Updated Reviewed by Daniel Mercer

This guide covers 8+ hiking trails in Maine — Beehive Trail, Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail and Jordan Pond Path top the list. Every recommendation carries its practical details: typical costs, the best time to visit, and what to know before you commit.

Maine is the northeasternmost state in the contiguous United States, celebrated for its rugged Atlantic coastline studded with lighthouses, lobster shacks perched over sheltered coves, the dramatic granite peaks of Acadia National Park, and vast northern forests roamed by moose. From the vibrant restaurant scene of Portland to the tranquil islands of Penobscot Bay, Maine offers a compelling blend of outdoor adventure and coastal charm.

Top trails

Routes worth lacing up your boots for.

  1. 1

    Beehive Trail

    1.6 miles round-trip1–1.5 hours450 ft (137 m) gain

  2. 2

    Cadillac Mountain North Ridge Trail

    4.4 miles round-trip2.5–3.5 hours1,174 ft (358 m) gain

  3. 3

    Jordan Pond Path

    3.5 miles (loop)1.5–2 hours150 ft (46 m) gain

  4. 4

    Mount Katahdin (Hunt Trail / Appalachian Trail)

    10.4 miles round-trip8–10 hours (full day)4,267 ft (1,300 m) gain

  5. 5

    Precipice Trail

    1.6 miles round-trip1.5–2 hours1,058 ft (323 m) gain

  6. 6

    Tumbledown Mountain

    5.0 miles round-trip (Loop Trail)3–4 hours1,400 ft (427 m) gain

  7. 7

    Gorham Mountain Trail

    1.8 miles round-trip1–1.5 hours525 ft (160 m) gain

  8. 8

    Mount Battie Summit Trail

    3.2 miles round-trip (Carriage Road Trail) or 0.5 miles one-way via auto road1.5–2 hours hiking; 10 min by auto road800 ft (244 m) gain

Trail difficulty levels

Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.

Easy

Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.

Moderate

Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.

Hard

Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.

Expert

Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.

Local hazards

What to watch out for on the trail.

High

Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.

Medium

Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.

Medium

Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.

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