Giant’s Stairs in Harpswell is a dog friendly scenic walk along Maine’s rocky coast.  At less than a mile, this cliff walk skirts the rugged coastline on a footpath through fragrant beach roses with breathtaking views of Casco Bay, and scenic overlooks perfect for watching the crashing surf and wildlife.  If you’re feeling adventurous, the trail continues on the rocky 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.  Please note there is a lot of poison ivy along the path. The name Giant’s Stairs refers to the interesting erosion pattern of the rocks due to the waves crashing on the cliffs.

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 are 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 a loading/unloading zone at the head of the trail, not to be used for parking, and there is extremely limited on-street parking along the narrow streets of Washington Ave. in this small neighborhood.

For our recommendations on additional places to visit in Harpswell, Maine, including a more moderate hike at Devil’s Back and a small beach at Mitchell Field, please visit our Dog Friendly Places page.

Giant’s Stairs Get Directions

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 (19 Ocean Street) when services are not being held in the summer. Extremely limited on-street parking along the narrow streets of Washington Ave. may also be found in this small neighborhood.