The Rangeley Lakes
The 10 best hikes near
The 10 best hikes near
The Rangeley Lakes
Bald Mountain Trail
1
• 2.4 miles round trip
• Moderate climb
Explore this 2.4-mile out-and-back trail near Oquossoc, Maine—a path with enough climb to make you feel like you got a workout. Generally seen as a moderately challenging route it is beloved by hikers and snowshoers alike and you’ll likely cross paths with a few friendly faces along the way. Dogs are welcome, but must be leashed as they enjoy the woods by your side.
This hike offers sweeping views of Rangeley Lake, Mooselookmeguntic Lake, Saddleback Mtn., and on clear days, New Hampshire’s White Mountains. At the summit, climb the old fire tower to take in the full circle Maine’s wilderness. Some trail sections are rocky, so sure-footed shoes make all the difference. The parking area is off Bald Mountain Road —Look for the sign that marks the trail head.
Saddleback
2
& the Horn from the Lodge
• 8.6 miles round trip
• Challenging climb
Begin at the ski mountain lot and follow the Appalachian Trail as it rises from the base, winding through spruce and fir with steady grace. The forest soon gives way to open sky, where alpine views stretch wide and wild. After 2.6 miles, you’ll stand atop Saddleback’s summit (4,120 ft), gazing out over Rangeley Lake and the distant peaks. Press on across the windswept ridgeline, another 1.7 miles to The Horn (4,041 ft)—a rugged crown of stone with views even grander still. This 8.6-mile out-and-back rewards with some of Maine’s finest high-country hiking. Be sure to bring a backpack with some extra layers—the weather can shift quickly at the top.
On a clear day you can see Rangeley Lake and Mooselookmeguntic easily from the summit. Be sure to get your photo taken in front of the AT Saddleback sign. It’s a right of passage for any avid hiker.
Tumbledown Mtn.
3
• 4 miles round trip
•. Moderately Challenging
This is one of our favorite hikes. It’s a bit of a drive to get to, but worth it. It’s amazing at anytime of the year and the views are always spectacular. Plus who doesn’t want to be rewarded with a mountain pond after hiking all the way up.
The Brook Trail is generally considered the easiest route up Tumbledown Mountain, offering a gradual ascent along Tumbledown Brook. It's a popular choice due to its less strenuous climb compared to the Loop Trail. The Brook Trail leads directly to Tumbledown Pond, where it meets other trails like the Loop Trail and Parker Ridge Trail.
Loop Trail (1.5 miles, Advanced): This is the most difficult trail on Tumbledown Mountain.
This challenging trail is not suitable for novices, less agile hikers, or dogs due to extensive rock scrambling. It's easier to climb up than down, but its unique features make it a popular route.
Starting at the Loop Trailhead—the only trail from this point—the path rises gently for a mile with two stream crossings before reaching Tumbledown Boulder. From there, it climbs steeply to the Great Ledges, offering stunning views of Tumbledown’s southern cliffs. The trail then enters a steep gully and passes through Fat Man’s Misery, a narrow rock fissure. The final ascent leads to the Tumbledown Ridge Trail.
Piazza Rock
4
via the Appalachian Trail
• 3.5 miles round trip
•. Moderately challenging
Wander into the quiet woods near Rangeley, Maine, on this 3.5-mile out-and-back trail—a gentle introduction to the wild heart of western Maine. Though considered moderately challenging, most hikers complete it in under two hours. Popular with backpackers, campers, and day hikers alike, it still holds pockets of peace if you start early or linger late. July through October is the prime window, when the forest hums and the path feels alive.
Follow the Appalachian Trail beneath a canopy of green to a short spur that leads to Piazza Rock—a great slab of stone hanging in balance. A nearby shelter and privy make this an inviting first backpacking adventure, especially for families with young explorers. Leashed dogs are welcome to join the journey.
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Cascade Street Gorge Trail
5
• 1 mile round trip
• Easy/ Moderate
This short trail leads into the 90-foot deep gorge of Cascade Stream providing access to a series of waterfalls and chutes. The trail leaves from the south side of the parking area and is marked by white blazes. Shortly after leaving the parking lot the trail passes under a power line and continues into the woods and along the stream. There are several good viewpoints of the stream and falls along the trail which at several points follows the bedrock on the side of the gorge. A higher trail away from the stream offers a loop opportunity. Picnic tables can be found at the parking are and at the power line. The stream itself is often used in the summer month to cool off and escape the summer heat.
Small Falls
9
• 0.5 miles round trip
• Easy
In truth this is really more of a popular roadside picnic area. But it boasts several scenic, neighboring waterfalls surrounded by sculptured cliffs on the Sandy River and Chandler Mill Stream. It’s not really a hike, but it’s so beautiful it makes the list. If you’re looking more, you can walk to the falls and the surrounding area.
The falls drop 54 feet with swimming and wading pools at the bottom. Cross the footbridge and follow the walking trail along the stream to other falls. In spring you may get lucky enough to see kayakers traverse the falls when the water is at it’s highest, but it’s great to check out even it the “hike” is only a quick stroll.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can follow the trail beyond the bridge, up the bank to the top of the falls for an incredible view. Small Falls is also a popular swimming hole, so bring your water shoes, and a bathing suit. The rocks can get slippery so be sure to take precaution when walking over wet rocks..