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 under owner’s control at Giant’s Stairs in Harpswell, Maine.  We kept our curious water-loving dogs leashed to avoid the poison ivy and to keep them safe on the coastal headlands.  We recommend visiting during quieter weekdays or during off-peak hours because parking is very limited.  There are four parking spaces at All Saints by the Sea Episcopal Church available to visitors when services are not being held in the summer (worship services are in July and August and begin at 9:30 AM).  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 in this small neighborhood.

For more information to plan your visit, including directions, weather forecast, photos and more, please visit our Giant’s Stairs page.  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.