Backcountry hikers and daytrippers alike will appreciate the beauty of Grafton Notch State Park. The Maine state park extends for 3,192 acres (1,292 hectares) surrounding Grafton Notch, the mountain pass between Baldpate and Old Speck Mountains.
The Appalachian Trail snakes for 12 miles (19.3 kilometers) through Grafton Notch State Park. Trek along steep summit trails and enjoy the stunning vistas that unfold around you. You will also be able to say that you hiked a portion of the longest hiking footpath in the world. Note that the trail is very challenging and should only be attempted by experienced hikers.
Grafton Notch State Park offers plenty of hikes for those who don’t wish to tackle the Appalachian Trail. Take the whole family along the 0.4-mile (0.6 kilometer) trail to Screw Auger Falls. Take a dip in the Bear River or enjoy a shore-side picnic. The trail to Mother Walker Falls is similarly short, simple and scenic. Located 1.1 miles (1.8 kilometers) north of Screw Auger Falls, the dramatic V-shaped gorge cascades for nearly 100 feet (30 meters) into a series of small pools below. Continue along to Moose Cave. Follow the trail through mossy beds along the deep granite gorge.
Hike along the intermediate-level 2.4-mile (3.9-kilometer) Table Rock Loop Trail to reach some of the best views in the park. When you reach Table Rock, see Old Speck Mountain, the Eyebrow and Grafton Notch stretching out into the distance.
Experienced hikers may want to continue beyond the Table Rock Trail to Baldpate Mountain. Hike to either the West Peak or East Peak for breathtaking panoramic vistas.
Grafton Notch State Park is part of the Maine Birding Trail. Keep watch for songbirds, falcons, migratory birds and even the occasional eagle as you explore. Larger animals, such as bear and moose, may cross your path as well.
Visit Grafton Notch State Park between mid-May and mid-October. It is open during daylight hours.
