The best walks and hikes in Oxford County

Yes, there are several options perfect for families. The Step Falls Preserve Trail — Newry, Maine is a very short and rewarding walk, just 1.0 mile (1.6 km) long, leading to a beautiful series of cascades. For an even gentler outing, the trails at Smith Bridge Preserve are mostly flat and offer a peaceful walk by the water.

Many trails in Oxford County are dog-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash. A great option to explore with your canine companion is the Burnt Meadow Mountains North Peak loop, a moderate hike with rewarding views. Always check the specific regulations for the park or preserve you are visiting before you go.

Grafton Notch State Park is famous for its waterfalls, including the easily accessible Screw Auger Falls. For a hike that incorporates a waterfall feature, the Caribou-Speckled Mountain Wilderness loop via Mud Brook Trail follows a brook with several cascades along the way.

Yes, the region has excellent loop trails that bring you back to your starting point without retracing your steps. For a challenging day out, consider the Puzzle Mountain Summit loop. This 7.5-mile (12 km) route offers a strenuous climb with fantastic views from the summit.

For those new to hiking in the mountains, the Mount Will Trail loop from Newry is an excellent choice. It's rated as easy, covering about 2.9 miles (4.7 km) with a manageable elevation gain, and it still provides a great sense of accomplishment with lovely views over the Androscoggin River valley.

Absolutely. A significant portion of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) runs through Oxford County, particularly within Grafton Notch State Park. You can tackle a challenging section by hiking to Baldpate Mountain via Appalachian Trail, which offers incredible ridge-walking and panoramic views.

Grafton Notch State Park is a highlight of the region, defined by its rugged mountains and dramatic gorge. Key features include numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty, stunning waterfalls like Screw Auger Falls, and access to challenging peaks like Old Speck Mountain. It's also a gateway to the Appalachian Trail.

Yes, for a truly challenging, full-day adventure, the Blueberry Mountain & Speckled Mountain loop is a strenuous 10.3-mile (16.6 km) hike. It's a demanding route with significant elevation gain, rewarding determined hikers with two mountain summits and expansive wilderness views.

Hiking here is characterized by the mountainous terrain of the White Mountains. Expect trails with significant elevation gain, rocky paths, and open granite ledges. The rewards are spectacular views of surrounding peaks, lakes, and vast forests. The area offers everything from short waterfall walks to strenuous multi-hour mountain ascents.

There are over 50 curated hiking routes to explore in Oxford County on komoot. These range from easy walks under an hour to difficult all-day mountain treks, ensuring there's a trail for every fitness and experience level.

The trails in Oxford County are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the stunning 360-degree views from the summits, the well-maintained trails within the state parks, and the sense of true wilderness.

Yes, winter hiking is possible but requires proper preparation and gear. Trails can be icy and covered in deep snow, so microspikes, snowshoes, and cold-weather clothing are essential. Lower elevation trails are more accessible, but mountain ascents should only be attempted by experienced and well-equipped winter hikers.