There’s more to Mount Agamenticus in York, Maine than the popular trails around the First Hill Summit. Beginning September 2022 and lasting through spring of 2023, due to improvements being made to that area, there will be periodic trail closures. However, there is still plenty to explore at the Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region! On our recent visit we had a great time choosing our own adventure on the extensive network of trails, by taking an approximately 6 mile hike to the summit of Second Hill.
We began our dog friendly moderate hike on the Norman Mill Trail. From there we followed the Notch Trail, until we came to the sign for the Stone Fence Trail. Anyone who has been following our adventures for awhile know we can’t resist stone walls, and imagining what the area looked like when they were built. After sitting a bit to daydream and hydrate, we continued on the Hidden Trail. Because again, what kind of an adventure would it be if we skipped a trail with “hidden” in the name! Finally we reached our destination of the summit of Second Hill via the Ridge Trail. It doesn’t have the scenic views like First Hill, but the difference in flora from the dense woods leading up to it was interesting. Staying on the Ridge Trail we did a quick loop around, then headed back to where it connects with the Notch Trail, which led us back to Norman Mill Trail.
The trails at the Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region are well marked, easy to follow, and range from easy to difficult. But due to the fact it consists of more than 10,000 acres and is located within an additional 30,000 acre expanse of conservation land, it is important to have a plan of where you want to hike and to pay attention to the signs along the way. One wrong turn and your adventure could get a whole lot longer than expected! To download a trail map, and for updates on trail closures, please visit Agamenticus.org.
Dogs are allowed on-leash at the Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region, and as always clean up and carry out all pet waste. Please note that trails range from easy to difficult, and not all trails are suitable for all dogs. Also please note some trails are open to more than just hiking. Pay attention for mountain bikes, ATVs and dirt bikes in some areas. Limited on street parking for Normal Mill Trail is available on Bennett Lot Road in South Berwick, look for the Mount Agamenticus Conservation Region sign. For additional recommendations, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page.
