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Best lake hikes in Franklin County
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Best lake hikes in Franklin County

Want a hike where the views are as smooth as the water's surface? These lake-side paths will have you reflecting on nature's beauty.

Here are some great hikes to explore in Franklin County.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Maine Route 27 To Monson

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

2

Difficult

Tumbledown Mountain Trail Loop

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.6 (18) · 8.5 km · Est. 2 hrs 39 min

3

Difficult

Parker Ridge Trail and Tumbledown Mountain Trail Loop

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.7 (25) · 7.6 km · Est. 2 hrs 27 min

4

Difficult

Myron H Avery Peak and North Peak Loop via Fire Wardens Trail

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.6 (25) · 19.4 km · Est. 5 hrs 45 min

5

Medium

Smith Cove - Bonney Point Trail

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.3 (19) · 2.1 km · Est. 33 min

6

Easy

Hunter Cove Wildlife Sanctuary Loop

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.6 (17) · 1.8 km · Est. 23 min

7

Difficult

Tumbledown Mountain, Pond and Little Jackson Mountain Loop

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.4 (22) · 18.4 km · Est. 6 hrs 17 min

8

Extra difficult

Bald Mountain Trail

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.6 (23) · 1.9 km · Est. 51 min

9

Difficult

Myron H Avery Peak from Stratton Brook Pond Road

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.6 (30) · 13.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 57 min

10

Medium

Mountain Pond Trail

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.5 (29) · 4.5 km · Est. 1 hrs 20 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for lake hikes in Franklin County

اميرمحمد جعفری avatar

Appalachian Trail Section Hike - Maine Route 27 To Monson

اميرمحمد جعفری · reviewed over 5 years ago

star star star star star

Marlin Davis avatar

Tumbledown Mountain Trail Loop

LakesidePioneer58 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Sung Gottlieb avatar

Parker Ridge Trail and Tumbledown Mountain Trail Loop

ScoutFjordfinder29 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

George Torp avatar

Myron H Avery Peak and North Peak Loop via Fire Wardens Trail

RamblerSprinter46 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Lon Boyle avatar

Smith Cove - Bonney Point Trail

EchoAlpinist69 · reviewed about 2 years ago

star star star star star

Frequently asked questions for hikes in Franklin County

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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