Discover the Maine Highlands 13 Top Birding Trails: A Haven for Birdwatchers
Explore Maine Highlands 13 top birding trails, from the Fields Pond Audubon Center to Baxter State Park. Enjoy unique sightings across various habitats like marshes, forests, and mountains. Ideal for spotting everything from songbirds to rare northern species, the Maine Highlands Birding Trail offers a birding adventure like no other.
The Fields Pond Audubon Center, open from dawn to dusk, covers 192 acres of fields, wetlands, forests, lake shore frontage, and a 22-acre island. Birders can expect to see Bluebirds, Bobolinks, Savannah Sparrows, and various songbirds. The nearby Sedgeunkedunk Stream Marsh is prime for early spring waterfowl.
Directions: From I-95, take exit 45 to I-395 towards Brewer. Take the Parkway South exit, turn left on Elm Street, which becomes Wiswell Road, then turn right on Fields Pond Road to the center.
This 650-acre forest features 9 miles of trails and a 4,200-foot boardwalk through a raised peat bog. Look for Lincoln’s Sparrow and Palm Warblers amidst the unique bog plants.
Directions: From Hogan Road, turn right onto Stillwater Avenue, then right onto Tripp Drive. Park at the end of Tripp Drive.
Known locally as the Taylor Bait Farm, it features shallow ponds attracting waterfowl in spring and shorebirds in fall. Explore the footpath over Newman Hill for more sightings.
Directions: From Stillwater Avenue, turn left on Forest Avenue, then right onto Taylor Road.
This living-history sawmill museum offers excellent birding along its one-mile access road through diverse habitats. Look for warblers, sparrows, and other songbirds.
Directions: Located on Route 178 in Bradley, park at either end of the access road.
A vast expanse of peatland and wetland forest, accessible mainly by canoe. The Carter Meadow Road offers a 2-mile loop hike with excellent birding opportunities.
Directions: To reach the southern half, take the County Road from U.S. 2 in Milford. For the northern half, follow U.S. 2 north to Costigan, turn right onto Greenfield Road, then left onto Stud Mill Road.
This Maine Audubon sanctuary offers hiking with breathtaking views, three clear ponds, and an Adirondack-style lodge. Watch for Northern Goshawks and various warblers.
Directions: From Monson, bear right onto Elliotsville Road, follow 7.5 miles to Big Wilson Stream Bridge, then turn left and follow signs to Borestone parking lot.
Surrounded by accessible private forestland, it’s a prime area for boreal species. Moose sightings are common along the roadside.
Directions: From I-95, take Newport Exit 157, follow Route 7 to Dexter, then Route 23 to Guilford, and Route 15 north to Greenville.
A steep ascent through diverse birding habitats, offering chances to see Scarlet Tanagers, Spruce Grouse, and Bicknell’s Thrush.
Directions: Follow Route 15 north of Greenville Junction, turn west onto North Road into the Little Moose Unit.
Popular for camping and birding, with common sightings of Pine Warblers and moose.
Directions: 8.7 miles from Greenville on the Lily Bay Road.
10. Kokadjo
This tiny community offers great birding with boreal species like Cap May and Bay-breasted Warblers.
Directions: 18.5 miles north of Greenville on the east side of Moosehead Lake.
Managed by the Piscataquis County Soil & Water Conservation District, this hidden gem offers diverse habitats and a chance to see Ruffed Grouse.
Directions: From I-95, take Exit 199, follow Route 16 to Milo, then Route 11 to Brownville. Turn left on High Street and continue past the Williamsburg Road.
Maine’s crown jewel, with 209,000 acres of wilderness, offers excellent birding across various habitats.
Directions: For the south entrance, take I-95 exit 244, follow Route 11/157 through Millinocket to the park. For the north entrance, take I-95 exit 264, follow Route 11 north to Patten, then Route 159 to the park.
13. The North Woods
A vast region with boreal areas, accessible via gated checkpoints. Home to desirable northern birds like Boreal Chickadees and Black-backed Woodpeckers.
Directions: Various entrances; see North Maine Woods for details.
Contact Information
Greater Bangor Convention and Visitors Bureau
Address: 40 Harlow Street, Bangor, ME 04401
Phone: (207) 947-5205 / (800) 91-MOOSE
Website: Visit Bangor Maine
What to Do in Moosehead Lake
For those seeking more activities and detailed guides, Moose River Lookout offers a wealth of information about the Moosehead Lake area. From seasonal events and community news to outdoor adventure guides and dining recommendations, Moose River Lookout is your new resource for exploring the region. In addition to hiking, you can find information on boating, fishing, camping, and local attractions.
Want more information checkout our Moosehead News!
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Explore the Maine Highlands Birding Trail for an unforgettable bird-watching experience!