Those looking for hikes to take will never be disappointed in Maine! Between our coastal walks and uphill climbs, there’s a trail for just about everyone. And while it might take a lifetime to explore them all, we’re certainly going to try.
It’s fun to take the simpler routes, winding through trees with little elevation. But we sure do love a challenge. This hike to the state’s own Grand Canyon is a great way to challenge yourself while taking in some of the state’s most impressive sights.
Head to Katahdin Iron Works Park State Park to see Gulf Hagas, a gorge carved out by the Western Branch of the Pleasant River. The area spans three miles and features incredible vertical slate walls, creating lots of waterfalls along the way.
Samantha Sproul / alltrails.com
The waterfalls and steep walls are so impressive that many people liken it to the Grand Canyon. So welcome to the Grand Canyon of Maine!
Rusty Calvert / alltrails.com
The network of trails here adds up to over 11 miles, but we recommend the 8.2-mile Rim Trail and Pleasant River Tote Trail.
leeco / Flickr
The route starts at the Gulf Hagas Parking Area and makes its way through dense woods. The trail is well-marked, but it can be slippery when it’s wet.
Deonne W / alltrails.com
The elevation gain is nearly 1,000 feet, so you’ll want to be prepared to put in some effort as you move closer to the top.
Matt McBride / alltrails.com
The views here are beautiful, even just as you walk through the forest.
Matt McBride / alltrails.com
And as you continue you’ll find pockets of green trees and blue sky.
Anya Ryzhaya / alltrails.com
The entire route could take nearly eight hours so it’s best to carve out a day for the trip.
Darcy York / alltrails.com
But the views of stunning Gulf Hagas are worth it! If you time your visit in the spring or just after a rain you’ll find the water rushing.
Rusty Calvert / alltrails.com
But, as with most spots in Maine, any time of year is going to be special.
Matt Murray / alltrails.com There are some shorter trails that will lead you to the falls as well, so don’t shy away from this trip if you’re not ready for a long hike. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the area if you don’t want to tackle this route just yet.
Gulf Hagas is a beautiful place to explore. To see access it you’ll need to go through private land and pay a fee. Right now the fee is $11 for Maine residents and $16 for those from away. You can learn more about the region and how to access Gulf Hagas here. You can learn more about the trail network by visiting Maine Trail Finder. To tackle the trail featured in this article, check out alltrails.com.
Samantha Sproul / alltrails.com
Rusty Calvert / alltrails.com
leeco / Flickr
Deonne W / alltrails.com
Matt McBride / alltrails.com
Anya Ryzhaya / alltrails.com
Darcy York / alltrails.com
Matt Murray / alltrails.com
There are some shorter trails that will lead you to the falls as well, so don’t shy away from this trip if you’re not ready for a long hike. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the area if you don’t want to tackle this route just yet.
If you’re interested in other moderate to challenging hikes in the state check out the Precipice Trail. It’s a challenging hike right here in Maine that will make your stomach drop!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Gulf Hagas Trailhead, Katahdin Iron Works Rd, Monson, ME 04464, USA
