Passport to Maine’s Outdoors

Get out there and see the great state of Maine! Thanks to a network of land trusts, the Land for Maine’s Future program, and our state’s proud conservation traditions, Maine enjoys a rich tapestry of outdoor places for all of us to treasure and share. Bring your friends and family together this year to discover some of the state’s most beautiful natural areas.

Below, you will find 36 destinations to get you started, as you plan your next outdoor adventure. But there are hundreds more that await. Continue reading below for information on other conservation lands available to the public for exploration.

Questions? Send us an email: mainepassport@gmail.com.

Remember, these outdoor destinations are wild places, many with few amenities and some without cell phone coverage. Before heading out, research the destination and know the day’s weather forecast. Be prepared with proper equipment, food, water, and other gear, and use common sense for a safe and enjoyable day in Maine’s great outdoors. Lastly, remember to pack out everything you pack in, so that future visitors will enjoy the same experiences you enjoyed.

Additional Resources

Looking for other outdoor places to explore in Maine? Here are some additional resources to assist your planning:

Land for Maine’s Future Destinations: Established in 1987, the Land for Maine’s Future (LMF) program has conserved more than 600,000 acres in the state. Supported by Maine voters on six separate occasions, LMF has secured or expanded public access to more than 150 destinations in Maine, including sites in all sixteen counties.

Maine Land Trust Network: A program of Maine Coast Heritage Trust, the Maine Land Trust Network builds and sustains the quality and effectiveness of land trusts in the state. There are more than 80 land trusts in Maine, which collectively manage nearly 600,000 acres. Find a land trust in your region and visit one of their preserves today.

Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands: The Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands owns and manages more than 700,000 acres in the state, including state parks, recreational trails, and other public lands. Destinations include some of the state’s loftiest peaks, most inviting beaches, and most scenic landscapes.

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife: The Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife owns and manages more than 100,000 acres of land in Maine. These wildlife management areas provide access for hunting, fishing, ATV riding, hiking, and other activities.

Baxter State Park: This 209,644-acre park, established by the late Governor Percival Baxter, provides opportunities to climb the state’s highest mountain, hike on more than 215 miles of trails, camp at 337 sites, fish in remote ponds, and explore a remote wilderness in northern Maine.

Acadia National Park: Acadia National Park protects the natural beauty of the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline of the United States and a rich cultural heritage. Each year, more than 3.3 million people explore the park, which boasts seven peaks above 1,000 feet, 158 miles of hiking trails, and 45 miles of carriage roads.

White Mountain National Forest: Spanning more than 800,000 acres, the White Mountain National Forest is located mostly in neighboring New Hampshire. However, the forest provides opportunities to hike, hunt, and explore on more than 45,000 acres of mountainous terrain in Oxford County.

National Wildlife Refuges: The US Fish and Wildlife Service owns and manages more than 60,000 acres in Maine to protect critical wildlife habitat. Some of these lands also provide recreational access for hikers, birdwatchers, hunters, and others.

Maine Trail Finder: Maine Trail Finder is a free online resource for hiking, snowshoeing, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and paddling trails in the state of Maine. Search a growing database of four-season trails to find the right trail for your next adventure. Browse interactive trail maps, trail descriptions, pictures, and trip reports.