Top 10 Family-Friendly Outdoor Spots and Trails in The Maine Highlands
Maine’s Highlands is known for its stunning natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and family-friendly experiences. With trails that cater to all skill levels and pristine outdoor spots for children and families to explore, it's a paradise for nature lovers of all ages. Whether you’re hiking through a lush forest or enjoying the calm of a scenic lake, these Outdoor Spots and Trails in the Maine Highlands offer a unique blend of kid-friendly outdoor activities and unforgettable nature experiences.
Best Kid-Friendly Outdoor Spots
Here are some of the top kid-friendly outdoor destinations in Maine’s Highlands, where families can explore, learn, and play together:
Location: Off Tripp Drive, Bangor, ME
Contact: 207-866-2578
The Orono Bog Boardwalk is a fantastic place for families with young kids. This easy, wheelchair-accessible trail offers a beautiful journey through a unique bog ecosystem. Educational signs and wildlife viewing make it a fun and informative experience for all ages.
Location: 216 Fields Pond Road, Holden, ME
Contact: 207-989-2591
With gentle trails perfect for family walks and interactive educational programs, Fields Pond Audubon Center is an excellent location to introduce kids to wildlife and birdwatching. It also features canoeing opportunities on the pond, making it a perfect day trip for families.
Location: Kittredge Road, Bangor, ME
Contact: 207-992-4514
Offering a wide variety of trails, Bangor City Forest is an ideal spot for families who enjoy walking, biking, or birdwatching. The Orono Bog Boardwalk is accessible from here, providing a dual nature experience for children.
4. Moxie Falls
Location: Route 201, The Forks, ME
Families can embark on a short 0.6-mile hike to reach Moxie Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Maine. The trail is easy for young hikers and offers breathtaking views of the falls, making it a perfect day trip for adventure-loving families.
Location: Greenville, ME
Situated on the shores of Moosehead Lake, Lily Bay State Park offers kid-friendly activities such as swimming, easy hiking, and wildlife viewing. The park's sandy beach is perfect for a family day out, and the picnic spots allow for a relaxing lunch amidst nature.
Top Trails to Explore in Maine’s Highlands
For those looking to dive deeper into Maine’s wilderness, here are some of the top trails in the region that are perfect for families, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts:
Location: North Main Street to Riverside Drive, Presque Isle, ME
This flat and scenic pathway is ideal for family bike rides or walks. Running along the Presque Isle Stream, the trail offers a peaceful environment with easy access to playgrounds and parks along the way.
Location: East Branch of the Penobscot River at 2540 Grindstone Road, Medway, ME
Contact: 207-746-5807
The Penobscot River Trails offer a variety of flat and easy-to-navigate paths along the river. Families can enjoy wildlife watching, picnicking, and the beauty of Maine’s dense forests while walking or biking on the well-maintained trails.
Location: Route 201, The Forks,
MEA great trail for families and beginner hikers, the Kennebec River Rail Trail runs along the riverbank and offers stunning views of the surrounding forests. The gentle slope and proximity to the river make it a great spot for kids to enjoy nature while learning about the area's history.
Location: 64 Balsam Drive, Millinocket, ME
Contact: 207-723-5140
For families seeking a quieter and gentler side of Baxter State Park, Sandy Stream Pond offers wildlife viewing and easy hikes suitable for kids. Moose are often spotted in this area, making it an exciting adventure for the whole family.
Location: 425 Spring Street, Madawaska, ME
Contact: 207-732-4000
For families who enjoy both summer and winter activities, Four Seasons Lodge offers an array of multi-use trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, and even snowshoeing during the winter months.
Conclusion
Maine’s Highlands is a treasure trove of family-friendly outdoor activities, offering everything from easy hiking trails to scenic wildlife experiences. With accessible boardwalks, calm waters, and guided tours, children and families can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Maine, creating unforgettable memories in one of the state's most scenic regions.
What to Do in Moosehead Lake
Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.
Boating: Explore the lake's serene waters.
Hiking: Explore the the wilderness.
Fishing: Discover prime fishing spots.
Camping: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.
Local Attractions: Learn about must-see sights in the region.
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit
Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout our Rockwood Moose River cabin!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
Be sure to check out the nearby trails and enjoy some of the local dining options in Rockwood and Greenville to round out your visit. Whether you're taking a boat tour or discovering waterfalls, there's no shortage of adventures for families in this outdoor paradise.