Getting outside in Maine is easy! For a lot of people it just means walking out the back door and spending some time in the woods. For others, it might mean hopping in the car for a quick ride to the trail head. We’ve been feeling particularly grateful to be here in the Vacationland this fall. It might be the colors or maybe it’s the effort we’re making to see them, but it feels like autumn was made for this state! We’re especially loving today’s fall foliage hike in Maine. It’s hearty, but easy enough for entry-level hikers looking for an adventure. And, of course, the colors on display will knock your socks off!

Bradbury Mountain State Park is located in Pownal, just a few minutes from Freeport and about 40 minutes from Portland.
Lauren Van Orman / alltrails.com
It might be smaller than some of the other state parks in Maine, but it packs no less of a punch when it comes to beauty and multiple trails.
Dibird50 / TripAdvisor
While each route is wonderful, offering access to the woods that make this area so nice, we think the Bradbury Mountain Loop is the best for an no-fuss afternoon hike with incredible views.
billandkent / Flickr
At less than 500 feet of elevation, this mountain is little by Maine standards, but you'll still have the chance to work up a slight sweat.
billandkent / Flickr
This time of year the surrounding forest offers tons of beauty on the way up.
samm4mrox / Flickr

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And while there is a slight elevation gain, you're likely not to notice it. The size makes this a great route for people who prefer simple walks to hikes.
Suzanne K / TripAdvisor
Once you approach the summit, you'll notice the trees begin to open.
Michael G / TripAdvisor
And then you'll see it!
Lauren Van Orman / alltrails.com
After about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on your speed, you'll reach the summit. The view over Pownal and Freeport looks like a blanket of colorful leaves, reminding us how vast and unpopulated Maine can be even near its biggest towns.
Dibird50 / TripAdvisor
Be sure to bring a camera, an appetite for good views (and snacks!) and then head into Freeport for some shopping.
pavdw / Flickr
To get to Bradbury Mountain State Park, take I-295 towards Freeport and exit at Exit 22. From here, you'll see clearly marked signs leading to the park. The entrance is on Hallowell Road.

This hike is best done as soon as possible. Much of Maine has already experienced peak fall foliage, but southern Maine is smack in the middle of it! Get out before October 20th when the leaves are expected to have fallen from the trees.

For more on Bradbury Mountain State Park visit their website here.

Another wonderful fall hike is this one. It’s just about two miles and leads to some of the most peaceful nature you’ll find anywhere in New England.

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