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Best backpacking hikes in Maine
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Best backpacking hikes in Maine

Ready for some outdoor fun? These hikes offer everything you could want for an unforgettable adventure!

Here are some great hikes to explore in Maine.

Most popular hikes

1

Difficult

Dead River to Stratton Brook Trail

Somerset County, Maine · star 4.4 (25) · 25.9 km · Est. 2 days

2

Difficult

Hedgehog Hill to West Peak to Baldpate Mountain

Oxford County, Maine · star 4.4 (16) · 12.1 km · Est. 3 hrs 56 min

3

Medium

Chimney Pond Trail

Piscataquis County, Maine · star 4.5 (22) · 10.2 km · Est. 2 hrs 45 min

4

Difficult

Mount Katahdin via Chimney Pond and Saddle Trail

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

5

Medium

Harding Pond and Great Circle Trail Loop via Leavitt Pond

Piscataquis County, Maine · star 4.6 (22) · 12.9 km · Est. 3 hrs 22 min

6

Difficult

Chimney Pond Trail Loop via Mount Katahdin

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

7

Medium

Caratunk to Spectacle Ponds

Somerset County, Maine · star N/A (0) · 55.1 km · Est. 3 days

8

Extra Difficult

Crocker Mountain and South Crocker Mountain Trail

Franklin County, Maine · star 4.5 (29) · 10.6 km · Est. 3 hrs 34 min

9

Easy

Grand Falls and Dead River

Somerset County, Maine · star 4.4 (18) · 26.8 km · Est. 5 hrs 35 min

10

Medium

Abbott Mountain, Sugarloaf Mountain and Davis Brook Loop

York County, Maine · star 4.3 (16) · 8.0 km · Est. 2 hrs 6 min

SHOW MORE HIKES

Reviews for backpacking hikes in Maine

Jeniffer Mante avatar

Dead River to Stratton Brook Trail

GraniteScrambler45 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Sindy Spencer avatar

Hedgehog Hill to West Peak to Baldpate Mountain

BluffExplorer25 · reviewed almost 2 years ago

star star star star star

Shane Stark avatar

Chimney Pond Trail

RidgeForester23 · reviewed over 1 year 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

Remedios Langworth avatar

Harding Pond and Great Circle Trail Loop via Leavitt Pond

BaseWilderness25 · reviewed over 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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