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Best difficult hikes in Maine
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Best difficult hikes in Maine

Got your game face on? These difficult hikes are designed for hikers who are looking for a serious adventure.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Maine.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - 100 Mile Wilderness Trail

Piscataquis County, Maine · star 4.9 (10) · 148.6 km · Est. 6 days

2

Difficult

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Maine Route 27 To Monson

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.7 (7) · 109.2 km · Est. 5 days

3

Difficult

Burnt Jacket Mountain

Piscataquis County, Maine · star 4.5 (26) · 2.4 km · Est. 42 min

4

Difficult

Mount Katahdin via Appalachian Trail

Piscataquis County, Maine · star 4.7 (18) · 14.3 km · Est. 4 hrs 52 min

5

Difficult

Mount Katahdin via Chimney Pond and Saddle Trail

Piscataquis County, Maine · star 4.5 (42) · 15.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 59 min

6

Difficult

Grafton Notch

Oxford County, Maine · star 4.5 (11) · 54.2 km · Est. 3 days

7

Difficult

Chimney Pond Trail Loop via Mount Katahdin

Piscataquis County, Maine · star 4.5 (33) · 14.4 km · Est. 4 hrs 49 min

8

Difficult

Sugarloaf Mountain Trail - Caribou Valley Road

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.6 (27) · 9.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 10 min

9

Difficult

Katahdin Knife Edge Trail

Piscataquis County, Maine · star 4.5 (33) · 16.0 km · Est. 5 hrs 22 min

10

Difficult

Mount David Loop

Androscoggin County, Maine · star 4.2 (13) · 482 m · Est. 8 min

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Reviews for difficult hikes in Maine

Joaquin Hidalgo avatar

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - 100 Mile Wilderness Trail

Joaquin Hidalgo · reviewed almost 6 years ago

star star star star star

اميرمحمد جعفری avatar

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Maine Route 27 To Monson

اميرمحمد جعفری · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Damaris Conroy avatar

Burnt Jacket Mountain

PeakTrailstalker12 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Brian Pfeffer avatar

Mount Katahdin via Appalachian Trail

PassCairntracker73 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Tyree Bartell Ret. avatar

Mount Katahdin via Chimney Pond and Saddle Trail

TrailheadCanyonrider13 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Maine

What is the climate like for hiking in Maine?

Maine's climate, with its distinctive seasons, provides unique hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring (March-May) offers cool temperatures and blooming flora, though trails may be muddy from melting snow. Summer (June-August) presents warm, comfortable hiking weather but can get crowded, particularly in popular spots like Acadia National Park.
Fall (September-November) is a preferred time for hiking in Maine with temperate weather and the state's iconic autumn foliage. Winter (December-February), though cold and snowy, offers opportunities for snowshoeing and winter hiking, provided you're well-equipped.
Typically, autumn is recommended as the best hiking season. Prior to hiking, always check the weather forecast, and gear up accordingly. Maine Trail Finder (https://www.mainetrailfinder.com/) and the National Weather Service (https://www.weather.gov/) are helpful resources.

Do I need a permit to hike in Maine?

In Maine, most hiking trails don't require permits. However, certain areas, like Baxter State Park, require a day-use parking reservation. For overnight camping in state parks, a permit may be needed. Information about permits and reservations can be found on Maine's Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry website (https://www.maine.gov/dacf/parks/).

Is wild camping allowed in Maine?

In Maine, wild camping is generally permitted in the Public Reserved Lands, with restrictions. Campsites must be 100 feet from trails and water bodies. Fires are regulated and may require a permit. For detailed information, refer to the Bureau of Parks and Lands website (https://www.maine.gov/dacf/parks/).

Are there mountain rescue services in Maine?

In emergency situations while hiking in Maine, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Rescue operations are usually coordinated by local law enforcement in collaboration with agencies like the Maine Association for Search and Rescue (MASAR). For more information, visit their website (https://www.mainesearchandrescue.org/).

Are there dangerous plants in Maine?

Maine’s diverse habitats feature spruce-fir, mixed hardwood forests, and coastal heathlands. Hikers can expect to see species like white pine, red maple, and numerous wildflowers. Beware of poison ivy in wooded or disturbed areas. More information on Maine's flora can be found on the Maine Natural Areas Program's website (https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mnap/).

What wildlife should I be aware of when hiking in Maine?

In Maine, hikers can anticipate encounters with a variety of wildlife like moose, white-tailed deer, and numerous bird species. Be aware of black flies and mosquitoes in warmer months. While black bears are present, encounters are rare. Visit the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife website (https://www.maine.gov/ifw/) for wildlife safety information.

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