If you’re new to hiking or simply not up for anything too daunting, you may find some of New England’s hiking trails rather intimidating. Luckily, Maine happens to be full of easy trails the whole family will enjoy, some of which have some seriously stunning views. For the casual hiker who loves the great outdoors, we recommend checking out the Mackworth Island Trail. Not only is it suitable for all skill levels, but it also takes you all the way around a gorgeous island.
Mackworth Island, also known as Mackworth Island State Park, is located near Falmouth.
Susan Rosenberger / alltrails.com This 100-acre island also borders Portland.
The local history here dates all the way back to 1631, when Sir Ferdinando Gorges gave the island to Arthur Mackworth.
Sajith R / alltrails.com The island is heavily forested, with one portion being dedicated to the display of “fairy houses,” which are built by visitors using materials found on the island.
The official Mackworth Island Trail is an easy 1.4-mile loop that takes you all around the island.
Michael Gonzales / alltrails.com The path is easy to follow, mostly paved, and pretty flat. It’s more of a nature walk than a hike, and it’s lovely.
There’s a lot to love about this trail but the unparalleled views of Casco Bay can’t be beat.
Zach Lyons / alltrails.com And since the trail is a loop around the island, you’ll get views the entire way.
The island has a beautiful rocky shoreline, and it isn’t uncommon to see people fishing for Bluefish and Stripers.
Zach Lyons / alltrails.com Take a break from your trail walk and enjoy a little seaside stroll on the shoreline.
Mackworth Island is also home to the Governor Baxter School for The Deaf and to Friends School of Portland, an independent Quaker school.
Shannon Jackson / alltrails.com And, if you venture into the woods, you can check out the pet cemetery where Governor Baxter’s many dogs have been laid to rest. There’s even a lone horse buried there.
While you may want to start your hike in the morning to make sure you get a parking spot, there are also benefits to going just before sunset.
John Colon / alltrails.com Either way, this is one trail you’ll want to take slowly so you can enjoy the scenery to the fullest.
With its enchanting fairy houses, breathtaking views, pet cemetery, and official structures like the Governor Baxter School for The Deaf and Friends of School Portland (an independent Quaker preschool through eighth grade school), there’s certainly a lot going on on this little island. The fact that its main hiking trail happens to be a nice, easy, pleasant trek is just a beautiful bonus. Have you ever made your way to this one-of-a-kind island in Maine?
Susan Rosenberger / alltrails.com
This 100-acre island also borders Portland.
Sajith R / alltrails.com
The island is heavily forested, with one portion being dedicated to the display of “fairy houses,” which are built by visitors using materials found on the island.
Michael Gonzales / alltrails.com
The path is easy to follow, mostly paved, and pretty flat. It’s more of a nature walk than a hike, and it’s lovely.
Zach Lyons / alltrails.com
And since the trail is a loop around the island, you’ll get views the entire way.
Take a break from your trail walk and enjoy a little seaside stroll on the shoreline.
Shannon Jackson / alltrails.com
And, if you venture into the woods, you can check out the pet cemetery where Governor Baxter’s many dogs have been laid to rest. There’s even a lone horse buried there.
John Colon / alltrails.com
Either way, this is one trail you’ll want to take slowly so you can enjoy the scenery to the fullest.
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Address: Mackworth Island, Falmouth, ME 04105, USA
