7 Maine Wintery Walks

It’s here! The times of chilly gales and snowy trails. Days bow down to nights at an alarmingly early hour. Across much of Maine, between November and April, you see folks across the countryside and the bustling towns alike who seem to bounce quickly into and out of buildings and cars to the nearest heat source.

But to outdoorsy types, it’s a winter wonderland worth exploring. Walking off the stress and calories, while taking in some brisk air and spectacular scenery? Countless winter trails for everyone crisscross the state, like so many wild animal tracks seen along the way.

Here are seven low-impact, high-reward wintery Maine treks for going solo or with a group:

1. Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area in Phippsburg

Do NOT let the name Morse “Mountain” fool you. This wide, paved, forest-lined road does lift here and there, but it is walkable for all ages. So much peace and beauty swaddles visitors here, it makes the 3.88-mile jaunt seem much shorter.

Then BAM! The trail opens up to the wild, wide North Atlantic kissing miles of smooth, sandy Sewall beach — often empty of other people for as far as the eye can see. This is pure allure from all directions. Right there, fending off the seafoam breakers, the charismatic and historic Chebeague Island greets you like a friendly slap on the back. So the walking continues along the beach for as long as the invigorating mood strikes.

2. Quarry Road Trails in Waterville

Smack dab between Brunswick and Bangor lie countless Mid and Central Maine trail systems. The standout Quarry Road Trail has been craftily developed over the years, blending miles of smooth trails for walking, skiing, or snowshoeing.

The vibrant, social nature of this “see-and-be-seen” trail has led to countless events and festive activities for all ages. Manmade snow enhances or replaces missing snow during the season.

3. Portland Trails in Portland

Blue Spruce and Brick Yard Trails are both snow-shoe friendly but are only two of MANY go-to trails stitched in this 70-mile network of long-established pathways. Some remain little-known so that they beguile even the most stalwart local walkers/hikers.

The Portland trails weave you through green spaces, urban stretches, and impressive water views of Casco Bay — as well as some freshwater interior waterways — all home to countless bird species like woodpeckers and chickadees. The Portland vibe is more relaxed than that of many small cities; it’s known for its hundreds of hopping restaurants and funky shops. . . who says you can’t call it part of your walk? Many do.

4. Harpswell Trail System in Harpswell

Quite possibly a smidge of heaven on earth is the Harpswell trail system, boasting 20 exquisite ocean front/water view trails. For one, Wilson’s Cove Trail is a hushed, forested trek tracing cyan/certain greenish-blue hues of tidal inlets.

Famously, Cliff Trail is easy to find, park and put in behind the Town Office on Mountain Road. Cliff trail offers an open, 150-ft drop with a breathtaking view but is worthy of caution. Eddies and oxbows and lobsters, OH MY! Harpswell’s trails are absolutely a sprawling display of heaven on earth.

5. Cathance River Nature Preserve in Topsham

Cathance River Nature Preserve is a perfect little hidden gem in the MidCoast area, serene and secretive until the crashing sounds of riffles, rapids, and rushing river water cut the silence and take your breath away. The trail system is very doable by people of all ages and abilities, but use caution with the snow-covered roots crossing some of the trails. A small ecology center is still active as a mecca for youth environmental education.

Being that this preserve is, well, a preserve, it’s teeming with critters including mink, many owl species, deer, turtles, uncommon butterflies, and a riot of varied trees, flowers, and surprises at every turn.

6. Marginal Way in Ogunquit

Marginal Way is the 1.25-mile ocean-side low clifftop saunter that you never want to end. The opulent neighborhood remains largely hidden along this entry-level walk suitable for most. The sprawling sea views at every turn catch your breath as much as do the roaring breakers along the way. Homes of great beauty line the way.

Ice happens, so bring the right shoes and if possible, ice cleats. Drifting happens, so some folks opt for snowshoes. The lane is flat, allowing you to pay more attention to the fearless shorebirds diving into the swirling Atlantic here, where it pummels the rocks and mists the old pines.

7. Carriage Trails in Bar Harbor

Don’t let the 120 miles of trails around the jaw-dropping vistas of Acadia National Park fool you. Many of them are wintered over. But an awesome winter walking/cross country skiing/snowshoeing destination here does exist in the nearly 50 miles of gorgeously groomed, forested Carriage Trails winding purposefully through the silent, mature forest. (These are also great for biking in warmer seasons.)

Always check ahead for conditions. They announce that “with the additional equipment and program support, an expanded cadre of volunteers has been able to groom more ski routes—including the Aunt Betty’s Pond, Around Mountain, and Witch Hole carriage roads—sooner, taking full advantage of Mount Desert Island’s unpredictable snow season.”

MORE: Seeking somewhat more remote wilderness wintery walks? Jackman has miles of trails, lakes, woods-roads, and another gorgeous end-of-the-line type of day hike. Rangeley and other western and northern Maine winter day-hike destinations are innumerable — worth the hype – and the drive to get there.

WARNING: Be prepared. Weather conditions change quickly in the Northeast. Always carry a sturdy backpack with a phone, bottled water, dry socks, trail mix or power bars, and sturdy fruit. Let someone know you’re out walking. Wear layers, reliable winter gear, and footwear made for the occasion.

REMINDER: Easily found online, you’ll see that some but NOT all trails are dog-friendly. Leash laws are in place – especially for canines who don’t mind well — and fines are imposed for people ignoring these laws and the rights of other hikers/walkers deserving their space free of other peoples’ charging animals. Friendly or not, dogs are required to be walked according to state law. Happy paws and happy trails to all!