Midcoast Maine is a paradise for nature lovers, offering an incredible variety of hiking and walking trails that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes. From coastal vistas to quiet forests, there’s a trail for every level of hiker. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging trek, here are some of the best places to get outside and enjoy the beauty of Midcoast Maine.
Coastal Walks with Stunning Views
Ovens Mouth Preserve (Boothbay) – A network of trails along the Back River, featuring scenic bridges, forested paths, and a peaceful coastal setting.
Porter Preserve (Boothbay) – Short but rewarding, this trail winds through a forest to breathtaking water views and rocky shoreline access.
La Verna Preserve (Bristol) – A stunning mix of coastal cliffs, woodland trails, and sweeping ocean vistas make this a favorite for hikers.
Reid State Park (Georgetown) – Known for its sandy beaches and rugged coastal trails, this park offers a beautiful blend of ocean and forest landscapes.
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park (Bristol) – A must-visit for lighthouse lovers! While not a traditional hike, the rocky coastline here is perfect for exploring and photography.
Forest Hikes and Nature Walks
Hidden Valley Nature Center (Jefferson) – With over 25 miles of trails, this expansive preserve is perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and even winter adventures like snowshoeing.
Dodge Point Preserve (Newcastle) – Featuring well-maintained trails through old-growth forest, a beautiful riverfront, and quiet picnic spots.
Zak Preserve (Boothbay) – A peaceful, shaded trail system with a mix of boardwalks, bridges, and wooded paths.
Bonyun Preserve (Westport Island) – A quiet retreat featuring a mix of salt marsh, forest, and shoreline trails, offering prime wildlife spotting.
Short & Easy Walks
Oak Point Farm (Boothbay Region Land Trust) – An easy, family-friendly loop with pond views, wildflowers, and frequent sightings of birds and small wildlife.
Carlisle Island Preserve (Boothbay Harbor) – A tiny, hidden-gem island with a gentle trail that leads to lovely harbor views.
Whaleback Shell Midden State Historic Site (Damariscotta) – A short loop with great picnic spots and interactive storyboards talking all about the history of the shell midden, going all the way back to prehistory!
Hiking Throughout our Season
Each part of the season offers a unique hiking experience, from spring’s fresh greenery to summer’s coastal breezes and the breathtaking fall foliage—there’s always something special to see on the trails!
Late May – June: Spring wildflowers are in bloom, and the forests are lush and green. Some trails may still be damp from spring rains, so waterproof shoes are a good idea.
July – August: Warm summer days make coastal hikes especially refreshing. Morning or late afternoon hikes offer cooler temperatures, and shaded forest trails are great for escaping the midday sun.
September – Mid-October: Enjoy foliage season! This is one of the most stunning times to hike in Maine, with crisp air and vibrant autumn colors appearing to make every trail even more breathtaking.
Trail Tips
Wear proper shoes – remember that our landscape is a mix of granite, grass, and forest floors! Sneakers are always a safe bet, and serious hikers on long treks will appreciate bringing their trusty hiking boots.
Bug spray is a must in late spring and early summer, especially near marshes and wooded areas.
Bring layers! Even in summer, temperatures can be cooler near the coast or in the shade.
Some trails have limited parking, so visiting earlier in the day or on weekdays can help avoid crowds.
Keep an eye out for wildlife—deer, foxes, and even bald eagles are common sights!
Explore More
Midcoast Maine is full of hidden gems when it comes to hiking. Whether you’re in search of a quick nature walk or a day-long adventure, the trails here offer something for everyone. Looking for more outdoor inspiration? Check out our other guides for planning the perfect Maine getaway!