Your Weekly Guide to Life in Midcoast Maine

BY KELLY MICHAUD, EDITOR

Hiking continues to grow in popularity and the hills and mountains in the Midcoast have become a part of the trend.

There are quite a few developed trails to explore, ranging from easy to strenuous. Some people are deterred from the sport during the prime months of the summer because of the heat, but as September gets underway and the foliage season is around the corner, the cooler temperatures make hiking even more appealing. Not only can you see majestic views of Penobscot Bay and the towns below, but the vibrant yellow, orange and red colors will be absolutely breathtaking in a few weeks, with the ocean as the backdrop.

Off Route 17 in Rockport is the Georges Highland Path, which is the work of the Georges River Land Trust, a non-profit organization based in Rockland. The path goes through the hills of the Georges River watershed and showcases the many natural, historic and scenic features of this area. Hikers pass over old stone walls on part of the winding path. The 2.5 mile trail (one-way) up Ragged Mountain starts out fairly flat but by about halfway you start to feel the burn in your legs as the trail gets steeper and steeper. The elevation at the summit is 1,225 feet. Along the way there are lookout areas that get more beautiful the higher you climb. Once you’re at the top, make sure you have your camera so you can capture the views of Penobscot Bay.

Be sure to bring water and good shoes. This trail makes a great family hike but it’s not suitable for young children. There were a few points when I was huffing and puffing, but there are some spots where you can pull off to the side and rest. The trail exists through agreements with private landowners, so hikers need to take particular care to follow appropriate guidelines when hiking, and these are listed at the beginning of the trail.

Two other popular spots not too far from Ragged Mountain are Mount Battie in Camden and Bald Rock Mountain in Lincolnville.

You can drive the auto road to the top of Mount Battie, which overlooks Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay but purists will hike it. The Mount Battie Trail leaves from the campground access road in Camden Hills State Park and roughly parallels the auto road to between Mount Battie and Mount Megunticook. At the intersection with the Tablelands Trail turn left, cross the auto road, and quickly reach the summit with its great views of the nearby mountains and countryside. Retrace your steps to return. The total distance is about 1.25 miles one way with an elevation gain of 550 feet. The hike is moderate to strenuous.

One of the less-traveled peaks of the Midcoast area is 1,100-foot Bald Rock Mountain, which offers great views of Penobscot Bay to the east and the rolling peaks of Camden Hills to the south. Park at the gate on the Ski Lodge Road off the Youngstown Road in Lincolnville. Follow the dirt road 1.25 miles to the trail head. The trail to the top of this mountain, which once had a ski area, is about half a mile long and features switch backs and several stone steps. It is a moderate, steady climb through attractive woods. There is a lean-to and a few small tent areas at the summit where overnight camping is permitted. Check first at Camden State Park headquarters. There is also a longer route to the top from Route 1. Keep in mind there is no water along this trail.

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