A Wilderness Challenge Off the Beaten Path featuring peaks, ponds, Pines, and so much more

The Maine High Peaks region is home to some of the state’s most iconic trails, where you have the chance to immerse yourself in silence, solitude, and wild beauty, and to reconnect with who you are. Unlike popular trails in other states, the Maine High Peaks region is still full of pristine beauty that's not overcrowded.

However, our most popular spots are becoming more known, and on a hot summer Friday, they can be loved a little too much. You might find 40 cars trying to park around a trailhead lot built for 12, or pass a bunch of fellow hikers on a single stretch of trail. So if you're seeking the true High Peaks region experience, you may prefer to explore some lesser-known trails.

To get started, scroll through all seven hikes below, and download the Scenic 7 Hiking Challenge booklet!

We hope to see you at the Outdoor Heritage Festival on June 21, an epic celebration of Maine’s iconic outdoor heritage, and a wonderful excuse to get up to the Rangeley region (see more info at the end of the article)! Maine Hikes will have a booth with its collectible iconic trail landmark art prints — just one more reason to come! 😁🌄🥾

1. Forest Legacy

Photo credits: 1-3 S. Shirley, 4-6 R. Goldfine

Description

Explore roughly 9 miles of lightly used trails in the Forest Legacy Conservation Area, located along the west shores of Cupsuptic and Mooselookmeguntic Lakes. Trails range from easy to advanced, winding through forests, along shorelines, and up to scenic viewpoints. Multiple loops are possible, with the 7-mile perimeter loop a favorite for those seeking a full experience.

Trailkeeper & MAp

Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust | Maine Trail Finder Map

Insider Tips

Wildlife Watch: Scan the lakeshore for loons and keep an eye out for moose tracks in muddy sections, especially early or late in the day.
Flora Finds: In June, look for blooming bunchberry and wild sarsaparilla along shaded stretches, and watch for the delicate white flowers of Canada mayflower.
Trail Tidbits: Bring a map and be prepared for a true backcountry adventure. The Skyline Trail offers some of the best lake views, perfect for a lunch stop at one of the remote campsites along the shoreline.

2. Bemis Mountain

Photo credits: S. Shirley

Description

Bemis Mountain, with its four summits and wild, remote feel, is a challenging destination for experienced hikers. The recommended loop connects Bemis Road, Bemis Stream Trail, and the Appalachian Trail, traversing rugged terrain and offering sweeping views to the south of Mooselookmeguntic Lake. This is the most difficult of the Scenic 7 hikes!

*The road to this trailhead has been closed for two seasons. High Peaks Alliance secured funding, and the Bemis Track is currently under construction to reopen this hiking season (2025).

Trailkeeper and Map

Maine Appalachian Trail Club | Maine Trail Finder Map

Insider Tips

Wildlife Watch: Listen for the drumming of grouse in the forest and watch for black bear scat along remote trail sections.
Flora Finds: In late summer, the open ledges are dotted with mountain cranberries and the occasional patch of sheep laurel.
Trail Tidbits: The Bemis Stream Trail is lightly used and can be muddy or brushy-waterproof boots and navigation skills are a must. The AT section rewards with panoramic vistas and a true sense of solitude.

3. Blueberry Mountain

Photo credits: S. Shirley

Description

Blueberry Mountain is a moderate hike with a big payoff: a rocky 2,962-foot summit offering excellent views in all directions. The trail is well-marked and family-friendly, making it a popular spot for both seasoned hikers and beginners. Due to its expansive mountaintop views, it’s also featured on Maine Hikes’ 6 Fall Foliage Hikes in Maine Worth the Effort and is a wonderful winter trek!

Trailkeeper and Map

Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands | Maine Trail Finder Map

Insider Tips

Wildlife Watch: Look for wild turkeys foraging in the lower woods and keep an ear out for the melodic song of the hermit thrush.
Flora Finds: In August, the summit is carpeted with wild blueberries-bring a small container to sample nature’s bounty.
Trail Tidbits: The open ledges near the top are ideal for a picnic. Arrive early on weekends to snag a parking spot and enjoy the peaceful morning light. For a scenic mid-hike plunge, extend your hike over to Rattlesnake Flume, featured on Maine Hikes’ Ultimate Guide to 8 of Maine’s Best Swimming Holes.

4. Perham Stream Birding Trail

Photo credits: R. Goldfine

Description

This scenic, easy loop in Madrid Township highlights rare south-facing views of the Saddleback and Mt. Abraham Ranges. The trail combines the Sheep Trail and Point Trail, passing through meadows, shaded woods, and offering access to Cow Point and Saddleback lookouts.

Trailkeeper and Map

High Peaks Alliance | Maine Trail Finder Map

Insider Tips

Birdwatcher’s Delight: Bring binoculars-this is a birding hotspot! Look for warblers, hawks, and even the occasional bald eagle soaring above the intervale. It’s common to see 10 species at the trailhead, before you begin your adventure.
Flora Finds: Spring and early summer bring wild lupine and milkweed to the meadows, attracting butterflies and bees.
Trail Tidbits: Keep an eye out for Carson Hinkley, the previous landowner and current neighbor. Carson is a naturalist and historian, with a wealth of knowledge on the flora, fauna, and the history of the settlement. He often greats visitors, so if you see him tell him Maine Hikes sent you!

5. Cranberry Peak

Photo credits: S. Shirley

Description

Cranberry Peak, the westernmost summit of the Bigelow Range, rises to 3,213 feet and offers 360-degree views. The 6.2-mile out-and-back hike via the Bigelow Range Trail is a great introduction to high-peak hiking, and is a moderate to challenging route.

Trailkeeper and Map

Maine Appalachian Trail Club | Maine Trail Finder Map

Insider Tips

Wildlife Watch: Watch for red squirrels and listen for the calls of jays and chickadees as you ascend.
Flora Finds: In late spring, the trail edges are lined with blooming trillium and hobblebush.
Trail Tidbits: The summit ledges are broad and open-bring a windbreaker and enjoy a long rest with panoramic views of Flagstaff Lake and the surrounding mountains.

6. Little Bigelow Mountain

Photo credits: 1-2 S. Shirley, 3 R. Goldfine

Description

Little Bigelow Mountain features a 6-mile ridge traversed by the Appalachian Trail, with pristine views and numerous ledge viewpoints. Hikers can choose their turnaround point for a shorter or longer outing.

Trailkeeper and Map

Maine Appalachian Trail Club | Maine Trail Finder Map

Insider Tips

Wildlife Watch: Keep an eye out for porcupines in the rocky sections and listen for the distant calls of loons from Flagstaff Lake (check out our print 😁).
Flora Finds: Early summer brings carpets of starflower and bunchberry along the forested trail sections.
Trail Tidbits: The ledges below the true summit offer some of the best views-great for a snack break or photo op before continuing on.

7. Poplar Stream Falls

Photo credits: S. Shirley

Description

A relatively accessible hike in Carrabassett Valley, Poplar Stream Falls features two striking waterfalls and a peaceful, remote-feeling forest. The loop via Maine Hut Trail, Larry’s Trail, and Warren’s Trail is a favorite for families and photographers alike. A perfect hike for all seasons, you’ll also find this hike on Maine Hikes’ Best Winter Hikes to Frozen Waterfalls!

Trailkeeper and Map

Maine Huts and Trails | Maine Trail Finder Map

Insider Tips

Wildlife Watch: Look for mink and otter tracks along the stream, and listen for the flute-like song of the wood thrush in the shady ravine.
Flora Finds: Ferns and mosses thrive near the falls, and spring brings blooming trillium and foamflower.
Trail Tidbits: The waterfalls are especially dramatic after heavy rain-bring water shoes if you’d like to wade, and pack a picnic to enjoy by the lower falls.

Earn Your Badge!

Participants in the Scenic 7 Hiking Challenge can log their hikes on Maine Trail Finder to earn the exclusive Scenic 7 badge, a digital recognition of completing all seven designated hikes in Maine’s High Peaks Region. This badge celebrates your accomplishment and can be proudly shared on social media through Maine Trail Finder’s sharing features.

Additionally, all Scenic 7 trails are featured on Maine By Foot, a comprehensive online guide to Maine’s trails, which offers detailed information on each preserve, swimming spots, and accessible trails. While Maine By Foot doesn’t issue badges, it’s a valuable resource to plan and enjoy your Scenic 7 adventure.

2025 Outdoor Heritage Festival

Be sure to join us at the High Peaks Outdoor Heritage Festival on June 21 in Farmington-the Gateway to the High Peaks-to kick off your Scenic 7 Hiking Challenge. The festival is the perfect place to meet fellow adventurers, get trail tips, and celebrate the region’s outdoor heritage. Start your challenge, pick up resources, and experience the true spirit of the High Peaks.

Make this summer one of exploration, solitude, and unforgettable adventure on the Scenic 7!

About High Peaks Alliance

The High Peaks Alliance is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring and enhancing recreational access and opportunities in Maine's High Peaks region while promoting conservation and sustainable economic development. For more information about the High Peaks Alliance and its conservation initiatives, visit highpeaksalliance.org or follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @highpeaksalliance.