While many folks know our area for its exceptional outlet shopping, you’ll find some of the best hiking trails near Freeport, Maine. When shopping bags fill your trunk and back seat, stow them away in one of our comfortable bed and breakfast rooms and head out to stretch your legs at one of Maine’s nearby state parks.
Alternatively, grab a trail map offered by the Freeport Conservation Trust and wander through some exquisite routes in and around town.
Opinions vary widely as to the best hiking trails near Freeport, Maine. But one thing remains true: hiking in Maine is one of the best things to do here. So, look at what to expect among the most frequented trailheads.
Here’s a comprehensive map of all the trails we mention in this article!
Freeport Conservation Trust
With a mission to “preserve, connect, and share the natural beauty of Freeport, Maine,” Freeport Conservation Trust gives access to more than 20 miles of trails. For directions, maps, and an explanation of trail highlights, visit their website’s Trails & Nature tab.
The Top 3 Trails at Freeport Conservation Trust
- Rachel’s Cove
- 0.1 miles | Loop Trail | Rated Easy
- Freeport Ridge Trail
- 0.6 miles | Loop Trail | Rated Easy
- Stonewood Trail
- 2.7 miles | Out & Back Trail | Rated Easy
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park
Travel 2 miles south of town on Wolfe’s Neck Road to find Wolfe’s Neck State Park on a peninsula jutting into Casco Bay with views of Eagle and Cousin Islands. A handful of trails meander through the woods, eventually leading to the water.
Keep your eyes peeled for ospreys nesting on Googins Island. Here, they raise their young until they fledge, as explained on an interpretive panel. A comprehensive map and guide offer visitor tips and a brief history of the park.
The Top 3 Trails at Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park
- Harraseeket and White Pines Trail Loop
- 2.0 miles | Loop Trail | Rated Easy
- Old Woods Road, Harraseeket and White Pines Trail Loop
- 1.2 miles | Loop Trail | Rated Easy
- Harraseeket Trail
- 3.0 miles | Out & Back Trail | Rated Easy
Bradbury Mountain State Park
Offering a magnificent view from the top of the mountain, Bradbury Mountain State Park attracts visitors who seek to explore the trails, perhaps a picnic in the woods and do some birdwatching.
Well known for mountain biking, the park also invites horseback riding on its shared-use trails. From mid-March through mid-May, the popular Hawk Watch tracks the annual hawk migration over the park. Join other birders at the annual Feathers Over Freeport event in late April each year. Find maps, directions, and events on the park’s website.
The Top 3 Trails at Bradbury Mountain State Park
- Bradbury Mountain Park Boundary Trail
- 2.3 miles | Loop Trail | Rated Easy
- Bradbury Mountain Northern Loop Trail
- 1.4 miles | Loop Trail | Rated Easy
- Bradbury Mountain from The Corridor
- 4.3 miles | Loop Trail | Rated Easy
Maine Audubon Mast Landing Sanctuary
The Maine Audubon Mast Landing Sanctuary, located along the Harraseeket River estuary, offers a 3-mile trail system that winds through fields and forests, along marshy areas, and a stream. Free and open to the public, five easy-to-moderate trails crisscross the sanctuary that often host migrant shorebirds, songbirds, mink, white-tailed deer, and snowshoe hare.
Cousins River Trail
A short but pleasant trail that begins at the far end of the YMCA’s parking lot meanders through the woods and over boardwalks to the riverbanks of Cousins River. Follow the blue blazes up the hill for more river views from up above.
Florida Lake
A 2.1-mile trail leads around the lake, offering excellent opportunities to spot native birds. Bog bridges and boardwalks make it easy to go during the wet season. The lake features primarily flat terrain with wetlands, streams, and, of course, the lake itself. The opportunity to spot waterfowl, deer, moose, and beaver is beyond compare. Visit Florida Lake for a casual outing among nature.
Hedgehog Mountain
Town-owned and maintained, Hedgehog Mountain lays claim to the highest point in Freeport. A network of short but sweet trails leads to the summit for a view of nearby mountains and lakes. Popular year-round, Hedgehog welcomes hikers, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers.
Leon Gorman Park
Leon Gorman Park is your go-to if you want a quick leg stretch close to downtown shopping. A short ½ mile loop trail fits the bill for a quick refresher or a spot to pack a picnic and enjoy some quiet time in nature. It links easily to the Quarry Woods Trail via a paved path.
Quarry Woods
Also located near town, the Quarry Woods Loop offers a network of wooded trails that meander through the woods to an abandoned quarry. Some hikers comment that it is wet at times and that you need to watch out for roots. The trails are used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
Pettengill Farm
Once a working saltwater farm, the Freeport Historical Society now maintains the original saltbox home, 140 acres of fields, antique apple orchards, and four forest trails of Pettengill Farm. When you need a break from shopping, drive to the farm along the Harraseeket estuary for a peaceful step back in time.
Rest Your Tired Feet at Brewster House B&B
Clearly, there’s much more to Freeport than outlet shopping. Some of the best hiking trails near Freeport, Maine, are minutes from downtown, and two beautiful state parks are nearby.
Whether you need a short break to stretch your legs or a more challenging trail to lovely views, visiting Freeport won’t disappoint. Pack some sturdy hiking shoes the next time you visit us at Brewster House Bed and Breakfast, and we’ll point you in the right direction for a refreshing morning, afternoon, or evening stroll.
Check out our favorite places to view fall foliage.
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