Maine has tons of outdoor areas to explore and we love that there’s something for every level of ability. Whether you’re a beginner who’s just starting out or someone who’s been hiking their whole life, a perfect trail awaits you. We talk a lot about some of the simpler trails because most of us are regular people. But, we know some of you are looking to challenge yourselves and for that reason, we’ve put together a few trails that are best for experienced hikers. If you’re up for it, consider taking these for the ultimate in Maine outdoor fun.
- The Precipice, Acadia National Park
Meg Cameron / alltrails.com Considered one of the hardest hikes in New England, this route isn’t terribly long at just 1.4 miles. But, it’s definitely technical. It will have you holding onto iron bars and looking over ledges that will make your legs shake. Consider doing it, but make sure you don’t have a fear of heights! You can check it out here! Acadia National Park, Maine, USA
- Ledges Trail to Bald Peak Trail, Pleasant Mountain Preserve
Arnaldo Arnal / alltrails.com This point-to-point trail is nearly four miles when put together, but with an elevation gain of 1,725 feet, it’s definitely a doozy! Do this one only if you’re up for rocky steps and steep grades. Pleasant Mountain, Denmark, ME 04022, USA
- Bald–Parkman Loop, Acadia National Park
John Melhorn / alltrails.com The combination of the Bald Peak and Parkman Mountain trails equals a challenging route that offers a few different difficult elements. Together they offer an opportunity for fun rock scrambles and an impressive elevation gain. But after all that, the views at the top are worth it! Acadia National Park, Maine, USA
- Big Moose Mountain Trail, Greenville Junction
Pattha nannie / alltrails.com This 4.4-mile out-and-back trail is beautiful, but will probably have you sweating. The elevation of this route is an impressive 1,843 feet and the stone stairs that seem to go upwards forever will definitely stay in your memory for a long time! Greenville Junction, Greenville, ME, USA
- Cadillac North Ridge Trail, Acadia National Park
Yong Chong / alltrails.com This four-mile hike offers plenty of beauty. But that comes coupled with steep sections and rocky parts. As you lug yourself up towards the spectacular summit, just keep your mind on what awaits at the top! Learn more about how to do it here! Acadia National Park, Maine, USA
- Pemetic Northwest Trail, Acadia National Park
Steven Smith / alltrails.com Pemetic Mountain is one you don’t hear about a lot, but it’s a beauty once you get to the top. Getting to the top is not easy though. There are a few different trails to get there, and believe it or not, this one is the least challenging. The route is about 1.2 miles out-and-back, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in steepness and rockiness! Acadia National Park, Maine, USA
- The Beehive Trail, Acadia National Park
Robin Read / alltrails.com With a total distance of about 1.3 miles, this is another trail that might have you thinking it’s easy just by being short. This isn’t the case at all. The Beehive is technical and includes rungs to climb and lots of views that will make your palms sweat if you prefer to be at sea level. You can learn more about why you don’t find us on this trail here! Acadia National Park, Maine, USA
What are some of your favorite challenging hikes? Are there are that offer a good way to go from beginner to more intermediate? Head to the Facebook comments to let us know!
Meg Cameron / alltrails.com
Considered one of the hardest hikes in New England, this route isn’t terribly long at just 1.4 miles. But, it’s definitely technical. It will have you holding onto iron bars and looking over ledges that will make your legs shake. Consider doing it, but make sure you don’t have a fear of heights! You can check it out here!
Acadia National Park, Maine, USA
Arnaldo Arnal / alltrails.com
This point-to-point trail is nearly four miles when put together, but with an elevation gain of 1,725 feet, it’s definitely a doozy! Do this one only if you’re up for rocky steps and steep grades.
Pleasant Mountain, Denmark, ME 04022, USA
John Melhorn / alltrails.com
The combination of the Bald Peak and Parkman Mountain trails equals a challenging route that offers a few different difficult elements. Together they offer an opportunity for fun rock scrambles and an impressive elevation gain. But after all that, the views at the top are worth it!
Pattha nannie / alltrails.com
This 4.4-mile out-and-back trail is beautiful, but will probably have you sweating. The elevation of this route is an impressive 1,843 feet and the stone stairs that seem to go upwards forever will definitely stay in your memory for a long time!
Greenville Junction, Greenville, ME, USA
Yong Chong / alltrails.com
This four-mile hike offers plenty of beauty. But that comes coupled with steep sections and rocky parts. As you lug yourself up towards the spectacular summit, just keep your mind on what awaits at the top! Learn more about how to do it here!
Steven Smith / alltrails.com
Pemetic Mountain is one you don’t hear about a lot, but it’s a beauty once you get to the top. Getting to the top is not easy though. There are a few different trails to get there, and believe it or not, this one is the least challenging. The route is about 1.2 miles out-and-back, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in steepness and rockiness!
Robin Read / alltrails.com
With a total distance of about 1.3 miles, this is another trail that might have you thinking it’s easy just by being short. This isn’t the case at all. The Beehive is technical and includes rungs to climb and lots of views that will make your palms sweat if you prefer to be at sea level. You can learn more about why you don’t find us on this trail here!
If, after reading this, you’re comfortably happy with regular hikes we’re with you! Here are 10 incredible hikes under 5 miles everyone in Maine should take!
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