Hiking in the area, Gulf Hagas , Moosehead Lake

Question

Hi all,

We are arriving in the Moosehead Lake area (Blair Hill Inn) next week and wanted some advice on hiking trails. We are 2 couples in our 60's that are in good shape, one couple has a fair amount of hiking experience out west, the other couple has less experience. We're looking for a few short hikes (2-4 hours) and were intrigued by the Gulf Hagas area. Does anyone have any suggestions for moderate hikes, nothing too scary :) , maybe Screw Auger Falls? Thanks for your recommendations! Kathey

Answer

Greenville and the Moosehead Lake area offer some of Maine’s most beautiful hiking and natural scenery, with options ranging from easy walks to more adventurous trails. For your group, looking for moderate hikes of 2-4 hours, the Gulf Hagas area is a fantastic choice, known as the “Grand Canyon of Maine.”

Gulf Hagas Hiking Options:

Screw Auger Falls: This is one of the most popular sections of Gulf Hagas. The hike to Screw Auger Falls and back can be done in about 2-3 hours, depending on pace. The trail follows the river with wooden bridges and stone steps. The path is moderate, with some elevation changes and rocky sections, but nothing overly strenuous. It’s suitable for hikers with mixed experience levels.
Gulf Hagas Rim Trail: For a slightly longer option, consider the Rim Trail loop, which offers dramatic views of the gorge from above. Moderate difficulty, about 3-4 hours round trip, with some uneven terrain and short steep sections.
Gulf Hagas Gorge Trail: A flat, scenic trail that follows the river along the gorge floor. Ideal for less experienced hikers who still want to enjoy the waterfalls and rapids. This can be combined with Screw Auger Falls for a slightly longer excursion.

Other Moderate Hikes Near Moosehead Lake:

Mount Kineo: Located on a peninsula in Moosehead Lake, the Mount Kineo hike is moderate with panoramic views of the lake from the summit. Round trip is about 2.5-3 hours. The trail is well-maintained but does have some steep sections.
Wilson Pond Trail: A gentle trail with forested paths and lakeside views. Great for a shorter 2-hour hike with minimal elevation change.
Big Moose Mountain: Offers moderate terrain and rewarding lake views. Approximately 3 hours for a round trip hike depending on pace.

Hiking Tips:

Wear sturdy footwear; trails in Gulf Hagas can be rocky and slippery near waterfalls.
Bring water, snacks, and a small first aid kit, especially for the longer hikes.
Start early to maximize daylight, as some trails have limited signage and cell coverage.
Check trail conditions at the Gulf Hagas Visitor Center or local guides, as some areas can be muddy or icy depending on weather.
Parking is limited at Gulf Hagas, so arrive early or carpool when possible.

For your group, Screw Auger Falls is an excellent moderate hike that offers stunning views of waterfalls and rapids without being too challenging. Pairing it with a short section of the Rim Trail can provide a bit more adventure for the more experienced hikers while still keeping it comfortable for everyone.