If you love the outdoors, Portland, Maine has many fun things to do. Besides being famous for great food and craft breweries, there are many awesome hiking trails near Portland. If you enjoy nature, you’ll love exploring some of Maine’s best trails just a short drive from the city.
Visitors to Portland will be surprised by how many amazing places are nearby, perfect for a full or half-day hike. One of the coolest things about Maine is that you can visit the mountains, forests, and ocean all in one day — sometimes even on the same hike!
Bradbury Mountain
Trail Map
Just north of Portland in Pownal, Maine, is one of our favorite hikes. It’s a great place for everyone—kids, dogs, and adults of all ages will find something to enjoy in this trail system. Even though it’s not far from the highway, it feels like you’re far away in nature. You can take a short, steep trail to the top for a quick hike, or try one of the many winding paths that let you explore the mountain more slowly. Plus, there are camping spots nearby if you want to stay longer!
Length: 1.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 200 feet
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Presumpscot River Trail
Trail Map
What looks like an ordinary Portland neighborhood hides an amazing and scenic trail system. The trails offer beautiful views along the Presumpscot River, and mountain bikers love the gentle, rolling paths. It’s an easy and fun stop for a quick nature escape.
Length: 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Wolfe’s Neck
Trail Map
Love woodlands? They’ve got woodlands. Like estuaries? Wolfe’s Neck has some of the best! Looking for Maine’s famous rocky coast? It’s all here. Just a short drive north to Freeport, this peaceful and scenic spot is perfect for a quiet walk. Wolfe’s Neck also has bird-watching tours and guided walks, plus camping spots that fill up quickly each year.
Length: 5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 50 feet
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Hedgehog Mountain
Trail Map
Another great spot in Freeport! Hedgehog Mountain has more than 5 miles of trails and an easy hike to the top. Both kids and dogs will enjoy it here. On clear days, you can even see Mount Washington from the summit, making it a top choice for a quick but beautiful hike.
Length: 2.8 miles
Difficulty: Challenging
Elevation Gain: 1100 feet
Dog-Friendly: Yes
Mayor Baxter Woods Trails
Trail Map
Located just off Forest Avenue, Baxter Woods is a peaceful spot for a relaxing walk through the shaded trees. It’s not a hike, but it offers a quiet escape into nature, just minutes away from downtown Portland.
Length: 2.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Elevation Gain: 100 feet
Dog-Friendly: Yes
