This Is Maine’s Most Underrated State Forest Trail

I haven't been back to Maine in a long time, but I'm very excited to make my return. Naturally, with a state filled with this much beauty, it's necessary to spend a good amount of any visit hiking through the state's stunning parks and forests (between lobster dinners, of course).

While I plan to explore Acadia National Park, I also want to visit a few underrated natural destinations, and near the top of my list is a hike in Harpswell that might be one of the best forest hikes in Maine. The Cliff Trail is a 2.2-mile moderate hike through a small local forest near the southern Maine coast. It's a highly unique experience that belongs on the bucket list of any Maine hiker—and it's certainly on mine!

One of the first things you'll notice in the Harpswell area is just how many amazing ways there are to get a view of the water. Our favorite has got to be the Cliff Trail, the most popular trail in the southern Maine area, far away from Acadia National Park.

At only 2.2 miles and with a moderate rating, the Cliff Trail might be a quick adventure, but it can be challenging for rookie hikers. You'll encounter uneven terrain and a 262-foot elevation gain, but the stunning views are worth it.

The trail is pretty popular with hikers and birders, so it's definitely well-maintained, and you'll find plenty of resting spots along the way. Dogs must be on a leash during the busiest hiking hours of 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and can be off-leash if under the owner's control during other hours.

This suburban trail is home to a Fairy Trail, which means you should look for those trademark little structures created by clever artists as you walk. That's just one of the reasons this is a great family trail for adventurous kids.

The trail is stunning throughout the year, but I have a special fondness for how beautiful it looks in the winter. It must be one of the most peaceful spots in Maine, and it's much more accessible than many of the state's more challenging trails.

Have you hiked the Cliff Trail in Harpswell, Maine? If not, this forest hike in Maine is best taken with a friend, so tell your hiking buddy about this article and plan a trip! You can see more pictures of the trail on the official AllTrails trail listing, and I highly recommend a subscription to AllTrails + if you're a beginner hiker or new to the area like me; the point-by-point directions are incredibly useful. If you plan to spend the night in Harpswell, The Harpswell Inn is one of the most iconic spots in Maine to sleep, and it's well worth the visit.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.