The Maiden Cliff Trail (1 mile, moderate) offers an ascent to some spectacular views from cliffs that tower 800' over Megunticook Lake. The trail gradually follows a brook for the first half-mile, after which the path takes a somewhat steeper climb, culminating at a plateau. The trail traverses open ledges at the top of the cliff, leading to a notable destination, where a large steel cross commemorates Elenora French, who fell to her death here in 1862 at 11 years of age.
Continuing on from Maiden Cliff Trail to Scenic Trail (0.8 mile, moderate) will provide another ascent of 120' to Miller ledges that afford an expansive view of Ragged and Bald Mountains to the west of Camden as well as the entire expanse of Megunticook Lake.
From the ledges, hikers may choose to continue along the Ridge Trail headed into the interior of Camden Hills State Park or return via the Ridge Trail to the parking area and trailhead for Maiden Cliff.
Maiden Cliff, Scenic, and Ridge Trails combine to serve as one of the most popular hikes in the Camden Hills, further enhanced by a town-owned beach, picnic area and boat launch just across ME Route 52 from the trailhead.
View BPL's map and guide for Camden Hills State Park.
In addition to hiking, biking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, Camden Hills allows opportunities for picnicking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, hunting and camping. Please exercise caution on ledge and rock areas, especially in wet conditions. Firewood can transport invasive insects and diseases. Do not transport firewood. Please buy it locally and help protect our forests!
Natural Heritage Hikes is a project of the Maine Natural Areas Program in partnership with Maine Trail Finder. View the "Camden Hills State Park - Maiden Cliff Trail" guide online here.
Visit the Town of Camden or Camden Hills State Park online for more information and a printable map or contact:
Town of CamdenFrom Camden, travel north on US Route 1 to the intersection of US Route 1 and ME Route 52. Follow ME Route 52 north for approximately 2.8 miles. The parking area for Maiden Cliff will be on the right.
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