The best running trails in Maine

Embark on the Mount Desert Island Marathon, a difficult jogging route spanning 27.7 miles (44.7 km) through coastal Maine and Acadia National Park. You will experience varied terrain, from paved roads to unpaved sections with roots, as you gain 1449 feet (442 metres) in elevation. The journey offers stunning seaside vistas and passes charming Maine villages, with Cadillac Mountain casting its shadow early in the course. Expect to complete this challenging route in about 4 hours and 43 minutes, surrounded by tranquil lakes and soaring mountains.

While the Mount Desert Island Marathon is accessible for jogging year-round, consider planning your visit for mid-October. This period often coincides with Acadia National Park's peak fall foliage, offering a visually spectacular experience. Be prepared for significant elevation changes throughout the course. Hill training is highly recommended to tackle the varied terrain effectively.

This route is renowned for its scenic beauty and varied landscape, treating you to miles of pristine terrain. You will enjoy views of Somes Sound, the only fjord on the Eastern Seaboard, which nearly bisects the island. The vibrant autumn colors during peak fall foliage season enhance the natural beauty, making it a truly memorable experience.

Embark on the Back Cove and Eastern Promenade Trail for a moderate jogging experience that showcases Portland's diverse beauty. This 5.9-mile (9.5 km) route, with a gentle 92 feet (28 metres) of elevation gain, offers lovely views of the city skyline and the tranquil tidal basin, where you might even spot great blue herons. As you continue, you'll enjoy spectacular harbor and ocean vistas along Casco Bay, passing by Fort Allen Park and East End Beach, all achievable in about 59 minutes.

When planning your visit, you'll find the trail's paved and compacted stone dust surfaces are ideal for jogging, walking, or biking. Benches are available for rests, and you can find seasonal water fountains and portable toilets in parking areas along the route. East End Beach also provides seasonal public toilets, making it convenient for longer outings.

Often called the "jewel" of Portland Trails, this route is a popular way to truly experience the city's unique blend of urban charm and natural coastal splendor. You'll get a sense of Portland's vibrant waterfront life, watching islands and cruise ships pass by. It's a fantastic option if you're looking for a scenic and accessible outdoor activity that highlights the best of the area.

Embark on a moderate jogging experience around Eagle Lake, covering 6.0 miles (9.7 kilometres) with a gentle elevation gain of 304 feet (93 metres). This route typically takes about 1 hour to complete. As you jog, you'll enjoy expansive views of the lake and its surrounding landscape, passing over the notable Eagle Lake Bridge. The well-maintained path offers a refreshing run through Acadia National Park, with varied terrain that includes mostly level sections on the eastern and northern sides, transitioning to moderate inclines and declines on the western and southern portions.

Planning your visit to the Eagle Lake Loop is straightforward, as the trail is part of Acadia National Park's extensive carriage road system. These roads are motor-free, ensuring a peaceful jogging environment. While specific parking details are not always highlighted, the route is generally easy to access within the park. Before heading out, always check current park conditions for any potential seasonal closures or alerts that might affect your run. Consider an early morning or late afternoon start for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

The historic carriage roads you'll be jogging on are a significant feature of Acadia National Park, a generous gift from John D. Rockefeller Jr. These meticulously designed paths blend seamlessly with the natural environment, offering a unique way to experience the park's beauty without vehicle traffic. The route winds through Acadia's mountains and valleys, showcasing the rich landscape around Eagle Lake. This trail stands out as a prime example of how human design can complement and enhance a natural setting, providing an accessible and enjoyable outdoor experience for all.

Embark on the East/West Loop trail run, a moderate jogging route that takes you through the diverse landscapes of Rolland F. Perry City Forest. You will cover 3.9 miles (6.3 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 44 feet (13 metres), typically completed in about 39 minutes. As you jog, you will experience varied scenery, winding through towering spruce and pine trees, past pristine ponds, and along narrow rocky ridges, offering a pleasant outdoor experience.

This route is accessible year-round, making it a reliable choice for your jogging routine in any season. You will find clear signage and detailed maps at parking lots and major trail intersections, which helps with navigation. While the trail system is well-maintained, be aware that patches of mud can occur after rain, especially on some of the narrower sections, so plan your footwear accordingly.

The East/West Loop is notable for showcasing the rich wildlife habitat within the Rolland F. Perry City Forest. A unique feature you can access from the East Trail is the Orono Bog Boardwalk, which provides a distinctive experience through a forested wetland. This boardwalk allows you to observe hummock peat moss and black spruce trees up close, offering a deeper connection to the local ecosystem.

Lace up your shoes for the Witch Hole Pond Loop, a moderate jogging route that offers a refreshing escape into nature. This 5.2-mile (8.4 km) trail will have you gaining 473 feet (144 metres) of elevation, typically taking about 1 hour and 4 minutes to complete. As you jog, you'll pass by the serene Witch Hole Pond, where you might spot beaver lodges among the marshlands. The route also guides you along the scenic Duck Brook, leading to the charming Duck Brook Bridge with its small cascading waterfall. You'll enjoy varied terrain and peaceful surroundings throughout your run.

Planning your visit to the Witch Hole Pond Loop is straightforward, with several convenient parking areas available. You can park at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center, near Eagle Lake, or along Duck Brook Road to access the trailhead. The route follows historic carriage roads, which are closed to motorized vehicles, ensuring a quiet and safe jogging environment. This trail is also multi-use, so you might encounter other recreational users. If you bring your dog, please keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure everyone's enjoyment.

This loop is a highlight within Acadia National Park, offering more than just a good workout. From various points along the historic carriage roads, you can catch glimpses of the expansive Frenchman Bay. You might even spot the iconic Cadillac Mountain in the distance, adding to the scenic rewards of your jogging adventure. The well-maintained paths make it an accessible way to experience the park's natural beauty and historical infrastructure.

Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the East Coast Greenway: Back Cove to Pine Grove Preserve. This difficult 13.1-mile (21.1 km) route will have you gaining 294 feet (90 metres) in elevation over approximately 2 hours and 11 minutes. You'll start along the vibrant Back Cove Trail, enjoying continuous views of the Portland skyline and the tidal basin, where great blue herons are often seen. As you continue, the scenery transforms into the tranquil, shaded pine forest of Pine Grove Preserve, home to mature White, Red, and Pitch pines. It's a journey that blends urban waterfront energy with peaceful woodland serenity.

When planning your jogging trip, note that the Back Cove Trail provides convenient amenities such as seasonal water fountains and portable toilets near parking areas. You can easily reach the Back Cove section via public transport in Portland. Parking is also available if you drive to Pine Grove Preserve. Be aware that some parts of the trail, particularly in the preserve, may have roots, so watch your footing. Connecting these two distinct areas involves a mix of established East Coast Greenway segments and local roads.

This route stands out for its unique transition from a bustling urban waterfront to a quiet, natural forest setting. The Back Cove area is a popular spot for observing the Portland skyline and tidal basin wildlife. Moving into Pine Grove Preserve offers a distinct change of pace, providing a serene environment ideal for nature study and appreciating the mature White, Red, and Pitch pines. It's a great way to experience the diverse landscapes of the region in one continuous jogging effort.

Embark on the Parson's Way and Walker's Point Loop for a refreshing jogging experience along the rugged Maine coastline. This moderate route spans 4.9 miles (7.9 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 91 feet (28 metres), typically completed in about 49 minutes. As you move along the paved path, you'll be treated to continuous ocean views and the sight of impressive rock formations, with the iconic Walker's Point visible from the trail.

For your visit, parking is generally available near the trailhead, offering convenient access to this popular coastal route. The trail is well-suited for jogging due to its paved surface. If you plan to go during the summer, consider heading out in the early morning or evening to avoid the heat on the exposed path and enjoy a more comfortable run.

This loop offers more than just a workout; it provides a unique glimpse into the area's natural beauty and history. The path winds along Cape Arundel, allowing you to observe coastal vegetation and notable landmarks like Spouting Rock and Blowing Cave. You can also find various viewpoints with benches, perfect for a brief pause to take in the expansive scenery.

Embark on the Peaks Island Land Preserve loop for a moderate jogging experience that spans 4.6 miles (7.4 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 148 feet (45 metres), typically completed in about 46 minutes. As you move along, you will encounter diverse terrain, from paved sections to more natural, uneven paths, all while enjoying expansive ocean views of Casco Bay and the Atlantic. The route guides you through varied habitats, including peaceful forests and wetlands, offering a refreshing escape.

To access this island adventure, you will first enjoy a scenic 20-minute ferry ride from Portland, which many consider part of the overall experience. If you plan to bring your dog, they are welcome on leash, but be ready for potentially muddy and narrow sections within the preserve. For a more tranquil visit, especially during the busy summer months, weekdays are often recommended to avoid larger crowds.

Beyond the natural beauty, the trail offers a glimpse into history with features like Battery Steele, a World War II fortification, adding a unique historical layer to your jog. You can also explore the scenic Davies Sanctuary Trail, which provides lovely views overlooking Elm Tree Cove. Keep an eye out for opportunities for birdwatching as you traverse the preserve, making this route a blend of natural beauty, history, and active recreation.

The Kennebec River Rail Trail offers a pleasant jogging experience along the scenic Kennebec River. You will find yourself moving through peaceful wooded areas, with views of the water for much of the way. This moderate route covers 4.0 miles (6.4 km) and involves a gentle elevation gain of 33 feet (10 metres), making it a quick and accessible run. Expect to complete the trail in about 39 minutes, enjoying the natural surroundings. The paved surface ensures a smooth journey, perfect for a refreshing outing.

Accessing the Kennebec River Rail Trail is straightforward, with convenient entry points from downtown areas in Gardiner, Hallowell, and Augusta. The trail features a paved surface and a gentle grade, making it suitable for a wide range of users, including those with strollers or wheelchairs. While it is popular during warmer months, the trail is also plowed of snow in winter. This ensures it remains open for walking and snowshoeing year-round, offering a consistent option for outdoor activity. You can easily find parking near the various access points in the connected towns.

Beyond its natural beauty, the trail is rich in local history, with interpretive signs providing insights into the region's past. As you jog, keep an eye out for local wildlife such as eagles and herons, adding to the experience. The route also connects you to charming towns like Hallowell, which serves as a pleasant halfway point, offering easy access to shops and restaurants. This combination of nature, history, and community makes the trail a notable destination.