Maine’s Mountains: Trails, Views & Wildlife

By VacationIdea Staff | Affiliate Disclosure about links

Courtesy of Kelsie - Fotolia.com

Craving rugged peaks and scenic trails? These majestic mountains in Maine offer outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and breathtaking views perfect for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers.

Highlights:

Mount Katahdin – Maine’s tallest peak and the dramatic northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail
Cadillac Mountain – Iconic Acadia National Park summit with sunrise views over the Atlantic Ocean
Bigelow Mountain Range – Scenic ridges, backcountry camping, and challenging hikes in western Maine
Old Speck Mountain – Part of the Mahoosuc Range, offering panoramic views from its summit observation tower
Camden Hills State Park – Family-friendly trails leading to Mount Battie and sweeping coastal vistas

Unique Mountains

1. Bigelow Mountain

"Hike rugged trails and admire sweeping views on this exciting outdoor trip."

Bigelow Mountain

Where is Bigelow Mountain located?
- Bigelow Mountain is situated on the shores of Flagstaff Lake in the western area of Maine.
How long is the Bigelow Mountain range?
- The mountain runs east to west for approximately 12 miles.
What are the main peaks of Bigelow Mountain?
- Bigelow Mountain consists of six peaks, including:
What outdoor activities can visitors enjoy at Bigelow Mountain?
- Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of outdoor activities, including:
What are some popular trails on Bigelow Mountain?
- Popular trails include:
Where can I find a map of Bigelow Mountain?
- View the map of Bigelow Mountain.

2. Cadillac Mountain

"Catch America’s first sunrise and enjoy romantic summit views in Acadia."

Cadillac Mountain

What is Cadillac Mountain?
- Cadillac Mountain is an island and mountain range originally established in 1604 by Samuel de Champlain.
When was the road to the top of Cadillac Mountain built?
- In 1931, a paved road to the top was created for easy access.
What makes Cadillac Mountain special?
- It is the highest peak on the nation’s eastern seaboard and the highest elevation in Acadia National Park.
- The mountain offers incredible views of Penobscot Bay and Frenchman Bay.
Why is Cadillac Mountain famous for its sunrise?
- Cadillac Mountain is well-known for having the earliest sunrise in the U.S. during the winter months.
Is Cadillac Mountain a good destination for climbing?
- Yes! Cadillac Mountain offers excellent climbing opportunities.
What are the best climbing areas on Cadillac Mountain?
- Great Head in the northern territory is the most developed climbing area.
- Other climbing spots include:
- These areas provide fun climbs for beginners and experienced climbers alike.
Where can I find a map of Cadillac Mountain?
- View the map of Cadillac Mountain.

3. The Crocker Mountain Range

If you are like me: "Trek through remote peaks and see wild landscapes on an adventurous hike."

The Crocker Mountain Range

Where is the Crocker Mountain Range located?
- The Crocker Mountain Range is located in the Carrabassett Region of Maine.
What is the elevation of the Crocker Mountain peaks?
- The range has twin peaks that reach a soaring elevation of over 4,200 feet.
- North Crocker is slightly taller than South Crocker.
Why is the Crocker Mountain Range popular with hikers?
- Appalachian Trail lovers enjoy this range for its vigorous yet pleasant hiking trail.
How long is the Appalachian Trail hike to North Crocker?
- The Appalachian Trail is the only route to reach the summit of North Crocker.
- The hike starts at an elevation of 1,400 feet and reaches an ending elevation of about 2,800 feet, stretching just over 5 miles.
How do hikers reach South Crocker from North Crocker?
- After reaching the top of North Crocker, hikers need to descend briefly before traversing about a mile to reach the top of South Crocker.
Where can I find a map of the Crocker Mountain Range?
- View the map of the Crocker Mountain Range.

Romantic Mountains

4. Dorr Mountain

"Climb granite ridges and explore quieter paths near busy Acadia attractions."

Dorr Mountain

Where is Dorr Mountain located?
- Dorr Mountain is located within Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island.
Who was Dorr Mountain named after?
- Dorr Mountain was named after George Dorr, the “Father of Acadia.”
Why is Dorr Mountain a great hiking destination?
- Dorr Mountain is ideal for hikers and climbers who want the same picturesque views as its more popular neighbor, Cadillac Mountain, but without the heavy foot traffic.
How does Dorr Mountain rank in height within Acadia National Park?
- Dorr Mountain is the second highest peak within Acadia National Park.
What are the different zones on Dorr Mountain?
- Several trails pass through four different zones on the mountain:
Are there any unique trails on Dorr Mountain?
- Yes! In addition to its standard trails, Dorr Mountain features:
Where can I find a map of Dorr Mountain?
- View the map of Dorr Mountain.

5. Doubletop Mountain

I recommend: "Tackle steep climbs and savor panoramic views during a challenging weekend hike."

Doubletop Mountain

Where is Doubletop Mountain located?
- Doubletop Mountain is located within Baxter State Park.
What are the key features of Doubletop Mountain?
- Doubletop Mountain features steep edges elevated just above Nesowadnehunk Stream’s west bank.
Can you hike Doubletop Mountain year-round?
- Yes! Climbing and hiking up the mountain can be done all year round, though trails tend to be snow-covered during the winter.
Are there ice climbing opportunities on Doubletop Mountain?
- Yes! Moderate ice climbs can be found on the east side of the mountain during winter.
Where does the main trailhead for Doubletop Mountain begin?
- The main trailhead begins at Foster Field and ascends roughly 2,500 feet.
- The trail covers about 3 miles before emerging onto an open slab with magnificent views.
What views can be seen from Doubletop Mountain?
- From the open slab, hikers can see:
- From the south summit, hikers can view:
Where can I find a map of Doubletop Mountain?
- View the map of Doubletop Mountain.

Scenic Mountains

6. Goose Eye Mountain

"Walk along the Appalachian Trail and discover this exciting, less-traveled peak."

Goose Eye Mountain

Where is Goose Eye Mountain located?
- Goose Eye Mountain is situated in the secluded and wild Mahoosuc Range.
How many peaks does Goose Eye Mountain have?
- Goose Eye Mountain features three peaks.
What makes Goose Eye Mountain unique?
- It is a relatively unknown summit with several impressive attributes.
- The mountain consists mostly of alpine plant communities and windswept ridgelines.
What is the best feature of Goose Eye Mountain?
- Goose Eye Mountain is known for its unimpeded and remarkable 360-degree views.
What can visitors see from the summit?
- The Presidential Range dominates the southwestern horizon.
- New Hampshire’s North Country dominates the west.
- Old Speck (Maine’s third tallest peak) and the Longfellow Mountains can be seen to the northeast.
Which is the tallest peak on Goose Eye Mountain?
- The west peak is the tallest, while the east and north peaks are just over 100 feet lower.
What are the most popular hiking trails on Goose Eye Mountain?
- The most popular hiking trails are:
Where can I find a map of Goose Eye Mountain?
- View the map of Goose Eye Mountain.

7. Hamlin Peak

"Reach Katahdin’s neighbor and enjoy quiet alpine views on a rugged trip."

Hamlin Peak

What is Hamlin Peak?
- Hamlin Peak is actually a lateral ridge of the primary Katahdin mountain range.
- Although connected to the range, it rises a few hundred feet from the butte, allowing it to stand on its own.
What geological features define Hamlin Peak?
- The peak’s sensational north and south sides are formed by the gigantic Saddle Basin and North Basin.
How can visitors reach the summit of Hamlin Peak?
- Visitors can reach the summit via two trails:
What are the views like from the summit?
- Both trails are bare during the last mile to the top, providing exceptional views of:
Are there climbing routes on Hamlin Peak?
- Yes! Various climbing routes rise from the North Basin leading to the top of the mountain.
Where can I find a map of Hamlin Peak?
- View the map of Hamlin Peak.

Mountains for Photographers

8. Katahdin Mountain

"Summit Maine’s highest point and conquer the iconic Knife Edge on a thrilling adventure."

Katahdin Mountain

What is Katahdin Mountain?
- Katahdin Mountain is the tallest mountain in Maine, towering above lakes and forests.
- It is located at the end of the Appalachian Trail within Baxter State Park.
What is unique about Katahdin's shape?
- The mountain is horseshoe-shaped and appears translucent-like from the south due to its granite composition.
What are the primary peaks of Katahdin Mountain?
- Katahdin features five primary peaks:
What is the Knife Edge on Katahdin?
- The Knife Edge is the most famous aspect of Katahdin.
- It is an intimidating and thrilling jagged crest that is only a few feet wide.
- This prestigious and legendary traverse connects South Peak to Pamola Peak.
Are there hiking trails to the summit?
- Yes! There are numerous hiking paths leading to the summit.
- However, almost all trails involve some level of scrambling.
Where can I find a map of Katahdin Mountain?
- View the map of Katahdin Mountain.

9. Little Jackson Mountain

"Explore scenic trails and spot wildlife during a peaceful fall hike."

Little Jackson Mountain

Where is Little Jackson Mountain located?
- Little Jackson Mountain is situated in the western area of Maine.
- It forms the northern face of the Tumbledown Pond Basin.
What is the environment like on Little Jackson Mountain?
- The upper areas of the mountain consist of:
- These features provide magnificent views of the surrounding area.
What mountains and landmarks can hikers see from Little Jackson?
- Depending on their direction, hikers can see:
What are the most popular trails on Little Jackson Mountain?
- The most popular trails leading to the summit are:
Where can I find a map of Little Jackson Mountain?
- View the map of Little Jackson Mountain.

10. Mansell Mountain

"Hike forested paths and enjoy easy coastal views on this quiet Acadia peak."

Mansell Mountain

Where is Mansell Mountain located?
- Mansell Mountain is located on Mount Desert Island in Acadia National Park.
How tall is Mansell Mountain?
- By normal standards, it’s not an especially high peak, but at 949 feet, it is one of the taller mountains within the park.
What is the geological composition of Mansell Mountain?
- The mountain is composed of granite with a pink to gray/green color.
- It features a weathered dome shape.
What are the views from Mansell Mountain?
- Its height ensures no altitude problems while offering stunning views of:
What are the most popular hiking trails on Mansell Mountain?
- There are numerous trails that can be mixed and matched for hikes lasting only a few hours, including:
Where can I find a map of Mansell Mountain?
- View the map of Mansell Mountain.

I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:

What is Maine’s Lakes and Mountains region?
- Maine’s Lakes and Mountains is a region in western Maine that is part of the iconic Appalachian mountain range, which stretches the length of the United States’ East Coast.
What makes this region special?
- This area is an exhilarating mix of mountain ranges and glacial lakes, highly prized for its pristine environment.
Is Maine’s Lakes and Mountains a year-round destination?
- Yes, no matter the season, these mountains offer plenty of entertainment for both locals and visitors.
What activities can visitors enjoy in this region?
- Visitors can take part in:
- Mountaineering
- Hiking
- Alpine skiing
Is there a destination for all types of visitors?
- Yes, there is a perfect mountain destination for everyone, whether they seek adventure or relaxation.

Map:

How did I do?

Is the article too broad, too narrow, or just right ? Do you like the presentation of photos and text? Let me know in the comments! If you want to see more in this location, I can put it on my editorial calendar. I'm listening!

Plan Your Trip

Why You Should Trust Us:
"For many years, my family and I lived and traveled far and wide as the original Vacation Idea. In the past 26 years, the team has grown into a group of experts from around the world. We are passionate about sharing our favorite travel finds."