One of the things we love the most about being in Maine is getting outside and enjoying all the land around us. We’ve got the rocky coast for those who can’t get enough of the salty air. And for those who love the feeling of tall trees surrounding them, we’ve got plenty of inland forest to ease the mind. If you typically gravitate to one or the other, consider switching things up to try something new. This hike, located off-the-beaten path for a lot of people in Maine is a great way to try something new.

The Allagash Wilderness Waterway State Park near Rockwood offers one of the most idyllic spots to get away for a few days. And a few days is what you'll need since this spot is definitely off-the-beaten-path.
Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands / Maine Trail Finder
While the trail itself is just 1.5 miles, the route can be difficult as it's not regularly maintained.
jackheddon / Flickr
But what truly makes this trail unique is that the only way to access it is by paddling your way to the trailhead!
allagashbrewing / Flickr
At the south end of Allagash Lake, you'll find a ranger station.
jackheddon / Flickr

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This is your destination in order to tackle this trail. The route begins to the right of the building.
Michael SeeHusen / alltrails.com
The route isn't terribly long, but it's a bit challenging. Early in the hike, you'll begin heading upwards passing spruce, fir, beech, birch, and maple trees along the way.
allagashbrewing / Flickr
About halfway through the hike, things get steep and you'll see about 750-feet of elevation in less than a mile.
jackheddon / Flickr
The out-and-back nature of the trail means you'll make your way to the top for views of Allagash Lake that are absolutely incredible. And from here, you'll simply turn around and head back to your starting point.
Michael SeeHusen / alltrails.com
There's also an interesting fire tower here. While it's not recommended that you climb it, it's fun to imagine what the views might be from up here!
Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands / Maine Trail Finder
This unique trail is challenging, both in access and elevation gain, but it's truly remarkable if you want to get a true taste of the Maine wilderness.

The Allagash Mountain Trail is remote, but worth the journey. It’s located within the North Maine Woods recreational system which means you’ll need to go through a checkpoint and pay a day use or camping fee. You can learn more about how to find it and see a map of the route by visiting Maine Trail Finder or alltrails.com. Remember that getting to this trailhead requires a paddling trip, so this is truly best for the adventurous.

And while you’re adventuring in the more rural parts of the state, we recommend you stick around and spend some more time in the area. Here are 14 destinations way up north that are so worth the drive!

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Allagash Wilderness Waterway, Maine 04401, USA