No matter the time of year, getting outside to enjoy the fresh air of Maine is always worth it. Mainers have hiked through wind, rain and snow and while we don’t necessarily recommend putting yourself in harm’s way, this type of hardiness is a testament to just how alluring the state’s outdoors can be. Choose any trail and get outside, but if you’re looking for something that offers a fun route with a beautiful scenic payoff consider this one!
One of the most beautiful overlooks in the state can be reached by exploring the East Grand Highlands Trail network in Danforth. There are three individual routes here and the Overlook trail, considered to be the easiest, leads directly to the views!
Woodie Wheaton Land Trust / Maine Trail Finder
The Overlook Trail is a 3.4-mile out-and-back route that winds through a beautiful forest.
Jessica Worster / alltrails.com
The trail includes a minimal elevation gain of about 300 feet. The increase is slow which helps to make this an easier hike. It’s gorgeous year-round, but in the fall you’ll be surrounded by foliage. And, of course, in the spring and summer you can’t beat the bright green forest canopy overhead.
Jessica Worster / alltrails.com
As you make your way to the overlook, look for the Rolling Rock glacial erratic located about a half-mile into the trail. This rock was left by ice age activity and it’s impressive to imagine it being moved by ice!
Woodie Wheaton Land Trust / Maine Trail Finder
Continue the route and soon you’ll come to the main event! The views over East Grand Lake are more impressive than you can imagine.
Woodie Wheaton Land Trust / Maine Trail Finder
And you’ll love that there’s a fun overlook with a picnic area making for a great place to take a break and take in the view.
Patty Brown / alltrails.com
And given that the views include East Grand Lake, Eastern Maine, and even Western New Brunswick in Canada you might be here a while!
barbara ragione / alltrails.com
Once you’ve enjoyed the sights (and a snack!) head back the same way you came to reach the trailhead. Once back you can choose to take one of the other two trails. Each one leads to the overlook, but the other two are a bit more challenging.
Rebecca Werts / alltrails.com It’s views like these that make us grateful to be in Maine and we think you’ll feel the same way.
The East Grand Highlands Trail is a beauty throughout the year. You can learn more about by checking our alltrails.com or visit Maine Trail Finder. Both feature trail maps as well as more photos to get your excited about the trip. You can also visit the official website for the East Grand Highlands Trail network to see all three of the trails in the area.
Woodie Wheaton Land Trust / Maine Trail Finder
Jessica Worster / alltrails.com
Patty Brown / alltrails.com
barbara ragione / alltrails.com
Rebecca Werts / alltrails.com
It’s views like these that make us grateful to be in Maine and we think you’ll feel the same way.
If you’re looking for more hikes with views, we’ve got another option for you. Morse Mountain to Seawall Beach is an easy hike in Maine that still offers breathtaking scenery.
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Address: East Grand Lake, North Washington, ME 04413, USA
