If you’re looking for an easy hike, with spectacular views of the fall foliage, as well as an opportunity to go apple picking, well search no further! We recommend Goat Hill Trail in Acton, Maine. Maintained by the Three Rivers Land Trust, Goat Hill is one of the highest elevations in Acton, and offers stunning 360-degree views of nearby lakes, and the Presidential Range, including Mt. Washington.
Goat Hill Trail is a wonderful work in progress, which began one year ago. As of Fall 2021, this half-mile tail is open to foot traffic only. However, the ultimate goal is to make it ADA compliant, so that everyone can enjoy the picnic area at the summit. The trail is wide, well groomed with crushed gravel, and zigzags its way to the top, making it an easy and gradual hike. On the day we visited, we could see where they have plans to extend the trails to give more hiking options, as well as even better views.
It is adjacent to Romac Orchard, which is also part of the Three Rivers Land Trust’s “Goat Hill to Shapleigh Pond” conservation project. Romac Orchard offers pick your own apples, as well other fun fall activities. However, it was closed on the Monday we visited in mid-September, so you’ll have to check with them on whether or not dogs are allowed in the orchard.
Dogs are allowed at Goat Hill Trail. They request that you please keep your dog on-leash on weekends, and whenever the trails are crowded. As always pet waste must be picked up and carried out. You can find the dirt parking lot at the trailhead on 1205 H Road, in Acton, Maine. To learn more about the project to make Goat Hill Trail ADA compliant, and to donate, please visit 3rlt.org. For additional places to explore this autumn, visit our Dog Friendly Places reviews.
