With over 5 miles of trails, Hedgehog Mountain in Freeport, Maine is a popular dog friendly hike.  But don’t let the name fool you!  Hedgehog Mountain is more of a hill, reaching less than 300 feet above sea level.  It is, however, the highest point in Freeport, and thanks to the local Boy Scouts, efforts are underway to open up the view so that on a clear day you can see Bradbury Mountain, Portage Lake and St. Froid Lake.  There is even the possibility of seeing Mount Washington on extremely clear days.  Consisting of 196 acres, the summit is a quick half-mile hike that is short but steep.  Following the loop trail down there are options to explore other well marked trails including the Stone Wall and Foundation Trails, which remind visitors of the families who once called these woods home.  The Wentworth and Soule Road Trails are also easy walks through the forest.  Across the road from the parking lot there are additional trails, but we did not explore them the day we visited.

Dogs are allowed on-leash or under voice control.  Be aware that on the day we visited there was a sign posted warning of a recent bear sighting.  A local hiker with a dog told us that a bear who likes to frequent the adjacent transfer station has been seen in these woods.  Also as with most of the trails we review, hunting is allowed here, so wear blaze orange during the fall.  Parking is available just before the gate for the recycling center.

For additional hiking trails and scenic walks in Maine, please visit our Dog Friendly Places recommendations.

Hedgehog Mountain Directions

The trailhead is located on Hedgehog Mountain Road off Pownal Road. A gravel parking area is located on the left just before the Recycling Center gate.