Today we invite you to join us for a leisurely stroll down memory lane along Maine’s rocky coastline, at the Giant’s Stairs. Located in Harpswell, Maine, this in and out cliff walk is approximately a mile long and skirts the rugged coastline on a footpath through fragrant beach roses with breathtaking views of Casco Bay, and scenic overlooks perfect for watching the surf and wildlife. In fact, the name Giant’s Stairs refers to the interesting erosion pattern of the rocks due to the waves crashing on the weather-beaten cliffs.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the trail continues on the ledges where you can find a small rocky beach, Pinnacle Rock, and Thunder Hole. Please be sure to follow the red blazes along the rocks to stay on town property, and respect the privacy of the homes that abut this trail. To extend your walk, follow the inland trail through McIntosh Lot Preserve to make a short loop.
Dogs are allowed on-leash at Giant’s Stairs in Harpswell, Maine. Please note there is a large amount of poison ivy that lines the path, and steep coastal headlands can be dangerous for curious pups. We recommend visiting during quieter weekdays or during off-peak hours because parking is very limited. The Giant’s Stairs Cliff Walk begins at the eastern end of Ocean Street. There is limited parking spaces at All Saints by the Sea Episcopal Church on Ocean Street available to visitors when services are not being held in the summer. There is also extremely limited on-street parking along the narrow streets of Washington Ave.
For our recommendations for additional places to visit in Harpswell, Maine, including more moderate hikes at Devil’s Back and the wooded Cliff Trails, as well as a small beach at Mitchell Field, please visit our Dog Friendly Places reviews.
But enough barking, imagine feeling the ocean breezes, breathe in the salt air, and feel the sun on your face, as you watch this video of our visit to the Giant’s Stairs in 2017. I’d say listen to the roar of the ocean, but Asa picked the music for this video.
