If you’re looking for a scenic hike along Maine’s rugged coast, there are better options than the Cliff Trail in Harpswell, Maine.  If you’re looking for a dog friendly hike through dense forest culminating with a view from a 150 foot high cliff, then the Cliff Trail is worth a visit.  There are two trail options leading to the scenic overlook.  The Old Road Trail (yellow blaze markers) is a 1.75 mile loop and Cliff Trail (white blazes) is a slightly longer 2.25 miles loop that ends at the town’s transfer station.  To avoid walking on the road back to the parking area, look for the wooded trail connector, which can be a bit tricky to find.  Along the trails there are also signs for scenic overlooks such as Henry Creek Lookout and Strawberry Cascade.  There are also designated areas for Fairy Houses, with very specific rules for their construction posted.  This moderate and at times steep hike begins along Strawberry Creek, winds its way through dense forest, and ends at a cliff overlooking Long Reach.  The reach itself is a submerged valley, so at low tide there is no water but a view of the mudflats.  Also the trails go through wetlands with a lot of areas of standing water, so be sure to wear extra bug spray.

Dogs are allowed at the Cliff Trail under owner’s control, and caution is urged along the cliff portion due to the vertical drop of 90 feet in this section.  Parking is available behind Town Hall, with signs marking the trailhead.

For our recommendations for more preferable scenic trails in Harpswell, Maine, including a moderate hike at The Devil’s Back and a scenic walk at the Giant’s Stairs, as well as a small beach at Mitchell’s Field to dip tired paws after a hike, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page.  There you will also find our recommendations for quintessential Maine scenic cliff walks including Quoddy Head State Park, Portland Head Light and Marginal Way.

Cliff Trail Directions

Parking is available behind the Harpswell town office at 263 Mountain Rd., between Rt. 24 and Rt. 123. Pick up the trail at the far corner of the parking lot nearest the creek.