Appalachian Trail - Eastern Maine

The Appalachian Trail is America's first National Scenic Trail. It stretches from Katahdin Mountain in Maine to Springer Mountain in the Chattahoochee National Forest in Georgia.

Established in the 1920's, originally it was to be a greenway between the states. These days, it has become the most popular trail for hikers that want to see the Appalachian Mountains. The Appalachian Trail stretches 2,160 miles and is a well-maintained hiking only trail. Conveniently spaced along the trail are shelters for overnight stays.

In Maine, the Appalachian Trail is 281 miles. This stretch of the trail includes some of the most difficult sections. There are a number of trails that are suitable for day hikes or short backpacking hikes.

There are 22 different hiking trails within the state of Maine. The first 6 are generally considered to be in eastern Maine and provide several days worth of hiking adventure and natural wonders.

1) Mount Katahdin

Mount Katahdin starts the Appalachian Trail near the town of Millinocket. This is the northernmost trail and is a 10.4 mile hike that takes you out and back. With a top elevation of 5,267 feet, this is a very strenuous hike that takes 9 to 10 hours to complete. The Katahdin Stream Falls are found on this hike.

2) Baxter Ponds

Near the city of Millinocket, this easy to moderate trail winds along a number of waterways. Baxter Ponds trail is a 9.9 mile point-to-point hike. With an elevation gain of only 540 feet, this trail takes about 5 and 1/2 hours to complete. Things to see along this trail include the Nesowadnehunk Stream and waterfalls, the West Branch of Penobscot River and various ponds.

3) Northern Lake Country

This is a 17.4 mile, point-to-point moderate trail near the city of Greenville that takes 12 hours to complete. With tall trees, placid lakes, and surging streams, this northernmost part of the wilderness has no roads crossing the trail, and no place for supplies before reaching Abol Bridge.

4) Central Lake Country

This moderate point-to-point trail is near the city of Greenville takes 6 hours to complete and is 8.3 miles of some of the most beautiful country in the Maine woods. The trail includes an old-growth white pine forest and spectacular views of sparkling lakes, even the imposing granite face of Mt. Katahdin. Crescent Pond and Pollywog Gorge are along this trail.

5) Southern Lake Country

This moderate to strenuous point-to-point trail near the city of Millinocket is 14.9 miles long and takes 10 hours to complete. This is a walk through Maine's Lake Country. This is a rugged lowland that was first etched by glacial ice.

6) White Cap Mountain

This 28.1 mile strenuous point-to-point route near Brownville Junction is a backpacking trip over White Cap's summit. With an elevation gain of 2,994 feet, this trail takes 17 hours to complete.

The Appalachian Trail offers some of the most scenic spots and an array of natural wonders. Hiking and camping offer an economical, relaxing way to discover the wonders of the world.

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