What to Expect Hiking in Maine in October
October in Maine is ideal for hiking. The month is relatively dry and still sunny, with temperatures sitting around a consistent 60 degrees Fahrenheit most days. This kind of weather is great for hiking because it reduces the risk of overheating while still being comfortable enough to be outdoors in a t-shirt or long sleeve (no bulky winter gear necessary). However, in higher elevations, you may find colder temperatures and even snow during late October!
But perhaps the best part about hiking in Maine in October is the scenery. The leaves begin to change in September, starting in the northernmost regions of the state and the mountains. However, peak fall foliage can be found all around Maine in October. During this month, the state’s maples and oaks turn vibrant shades of orange, red, and gold that simply scream fall.
Whether you’re biking, fishing, ATVing, or rafting, you’ll get a beautiful view of the foliage. However, hiking puts you directly under the colorful canopy while also bringing you to some of the best elevated locations for leaf-peeping and picture taking.
Best Fall Foliage Hikes in Maine
Maine is home to thousands of hiking trails, including just under 300 miles of the Appalachian Trail. Each stretch of trail is unique and many offer stunning views of the fall foliage. However, some hikes are better than others for taking in everything Maine in October has to offer.
Here are some of the best hiking trails in Maine for fall:
Douglas Mountain, Sebago
This is a hike the entire family will love. You can choose between two main trails that reach the summit or choose to only hike the mostly flat Eagle Scout trail and head back. The hike to the peak is uphill but relatively short and completely worth it for the massive views. On a clear October day, you can see Sebago Lake, Pleasant Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean, and, of course, miles of stunning fall foliage.
Jesup Path, Bar Harbor
You can still take in the beautiful foliage without elevation gain. This hike in Bar Harbor keeps you close to sea level and takes you through a wooded area of Acadia National Park that comes to life with vibrant colors during the month of October.
Bald Bluff Mountain, Amherst
For a more strenuous hike, consider an ascent up Bald Bluff Mountain. Rising over 1,000 feet above sea level, this trail climbs through the brightly colored forest right up to the top where you will find stunning birds eye views of the region.
Step Falls Trail, Newry
You won’t find a summit at the end of this hike. Instead, you will find something that’s arguably even more special, a waterfall! This moderately easy hike brings you right to the base of one of the highest waterfalls in Maine nestled among the changing leaves.
Camden Hills State Park, Camden
Camden Hills State Park is home to a few peaks that make for ideal leaf-peeping vantage points. This includes Mt. Battie, where along with the leaves you can soak in the coastal views. Mount Megunticook also offers a similar experience, and the hike up also offers multiple ocean lookout ledges to help you enjoy the views of the islands in Penobscot Bay and Mt. Washington.
Blueberry Mountain, Weld
Weld is a smaller town found between the much busier Acadia and Baxter State Parks. However, Blueberry Mountain is a stunning peak that offers amazing autumn views (and is known for being a quiet, less-traveled path). And the mountain got its name for a reason - it’s covered in blueberry bushes that produce berries during the summer months.
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, Freeport
If you want to bring your furry friend on your hike, you’ll love Wolfe’s Neck State Park. The 224-acre area has a variety of trails that can take you through the colorful woods or the rocky coast.
Of course, these are only a handful of the many hiking trails in Maine. Check out the entire list of places you can hike, ride, or paddle to see fall foliage this October.
Book Your Maine Hiking Escape
If you’re ready to get up close and personal with nature this fall, there’s no better place to visit than Maine. From the amazing foliage and expansive hiking trails to the variety of resorts that can be your home base during your stay, it’s time to come visit Vacationland for yourself this October.
New England Inns & Resorts has properties in Maine and throughout the region that are perfect for placing you right near many of the state’s best hiking trails. Head over to our blog for more Maine fall vacation ideas and seasonal inspiration for your hiking getaway!
