The Marginal Way Sounds Intense, But It’s One of the Best Hikes in Maine

Maine might just be the best spot on the East Coast for hiking, between the dozens of trails in Acadia National Park and the countless beautiful forests and coastal cliffs around the Pine Tree State. But some of those hikes are also among the most challenging hikes in the country, and when I first read about the Marginal Way, it definitely sounded like a scary hiking trail in Maine. It conjured images of close quarters, perilous overlooks, and an experience that demanded some real fortitude in exchange for views worth the effort. But surprisingly, I couldn't have been more wrong.

The Marginal Way isn't located in a park — it's an easily accessible beach hike in Ogunquit, one of the state's most beautiful beach towns. It takes you right up to some of the most beautiful cliffs in Maine, offering a view of the water that's hard to get anywhere else. But while there's definitely some sense of adventure to this hike, it won't tax you the way some of Maine's other top cliff hikes will. It's an adventure that just about anyone can take, and that makes it the best kind of surprise.

Why Is It Called The Marginal Way?

As you enter the Marginal Way, it's not actually hard to see why this hike was given an ominous name. It's a cliff hike, taking you right up to the line of the water with some steep but beautiful overlooks. It's easy to imagine how, once upon a time, this stunning overlook required sure footing and a little courage, lest one wrong move on the narrow path send you sliding into the ocean below.

What the Hike Is Actually Like

Fortunately, we don't live in those times anymore! This stunning hike is now one of Ogunquit's crown jewels. The town has transformed it into a 2.3-mile paved trail with easy, even terrain and only 81 feet of elevation gain. Many of the more dangerous spots are fenced off, providing safety for hikers without impacting the visibility in the slightest.

The hike should be easily accessible to anyone who is up to walking two miles, but for those who want to go deeper, it's possible. This is one of the most beautiful beaches in Maine, and the area is accessible for those who want to explore its bluffs and canyons. There are still no large inclines here, but those exploring the cliffs should bring good footwear and have some experience with cliff hikes. Keep in mind that dogs are prohibited in this area.

What to Know Before You Go

The trail is open year-round and has no admission fee, so it's one of the most accessible and beautiful hikes in Maine. Because of its urban location, only minutes from some of the town's best hotels and inns, it's fairly popular year-round, especially during the town's peak summer season.

Is The Marginal Way Worth Hiking?

This is a rare hike where there really is no downside! It's accessible even to beginner hikers, with many charming little sights along the way, and you'll enjoy stunning sea views the whole time. The best part is that, because of its easy access and short length, this is a great way to start the day before a full day of exploring Ogunquit.

Have you hiked The Marginal Way in Ogunquit before? If not, this "scary" hiking trail in Maine is wide open for new visitors, so tell a hiking buddy about this article and discover its charms for yourself! You can see more pictures of the trail on the AllTrails trail listing, and you'll find out more about the town's charms on the official Ogunquit Chamber of Commerce website. There is a lot to see in this beautiful sea town, so make sure to check out Barnacle Billy's for amazing lobster rolls! If you're looking for a unique place to stay, the Sea Rose Suites is ideal for families and couples.

If you're up for some bigger adventures in the Pine Tree State after this beautiful hike, check out Only in Your State's list of the best hikes in Maine to discover your next challenge!