October in Maine is a fantastic month to be outside and view fall foliage from three not-to-miss spots – which we’ll get to in just a moment.
To track current foliage conditions statewide, MaineFoliage.com is an excellent tool. It uses an easy-to-use color key that shows you the state of the foliage in every part of Maine. “High to Peak” is when you want to see it in any given region.
The Midcoast region, including Rockland, Camden and Rockport, is in Zone 2. For coastal Maine, peak color usually occurs in the third week of October. So grab your hiking shoes and backpack and try these hills and mountains for a glorious view:
Beech Hill Preserve, Rockport
This easy trail starts in hardwood forest and ends with a majestic view of Penobscot Bay, the Camden Hills, and the St. George Peninsula. At the top is a historic sod-roofed stone building that was once a wealthy family’s summer cottage. It’s been restored and is used now for occasional fundraising, arts, and social events. The 0.75-mile hike from the access point on Beech Hill Road passes through organic lowbush blueberry fields and is suitable for young children. An only slightly more vigorous and somewhat longer trail starts on Rockville Street. Dogs are permitted on leash. Beech Hill details on Maine Trail Finder.
Mount Battie, Camden
Another worthwhile hike is Camden Hills State Park’s Mt. Battie Trail, part of an extensive network of trails leading up to its crown jewel, the stone tower on Mount Battie’s 780-foot summit. The trail is short (0.5 mile) and moderate with some steep pitches up rock, but the view of fall foliage at the top is nothing short of breathtaking, with wide panorama of Penobscot Bay, the islands, and the surrounding mountains. Want the view without the work? For a small toll, you can drive up the winding road to the top. Mount Battie details on Maine Trail Finder.
Maiden Cliff, Camden
The trail up Maiden Cliff, though only 1 mile, is somewhat steep and requires strong legs and lungs. At the top, however, are unparalleled views of peak foliage over Megunticook Lake. A steel cross at the edge of the 800-foot cliff is a poignant marker for the little “maiden,” Elenora French, 11, who fell to her death in 1862. Maiden Cliff details on Maine Trail Finder.
Whether you’re enjoying the foliage in fall or the Maine Lobster Festival in August, Midcoast Maine is a spectacular place to visit year-round. Learn more about the festival on our website and stay up to date on next year’s event by following us on Facebook or Twitter.
