Maine is well known for it’s vast wilderness and amazing hikes, but The Forks area is often overlooked, with well-known hiking in the Bigelow Preserve to the west and the 100-Mile Wilderness to the east, and of course Acadia National Park a couple hours up the coast. But, there is much more than just world renowned whitewater rafting trips here, The Forks has plenty of amazing hiking to offer for adventurers of all levels.
If you’re in the area for your Kennebec or Dead River whitewater rafting trip and staying at The Forks Fun Resort, consider adding a hike to your time in The Forks! Here’s a quick guide to show you some of our personal favorites, we also offer Guided Wilderness Hikes or Waterfall Excursions to most of the locations listed below. If you’re looking to venture out on your own, our team of Fun Specialists knows the area well and can answer any questions you may have about hiking in The Forks.
Mosquito Mountain
Location
LocationThe Forks, Maine
Difficulty
★★★★
Distance
2.7 miles roundtrip
Description
This out and back trail is considered “The Forks’ hidden gem”. Fortunately, the name Mosquito Mountain does not refer to an excess of mosquitos, but rather, the shape of the mountain as it stands up like an insect bite compared to the rest of the surrounding terrain.
The first section of the trail is easy until you cross the power lines. After that point, it becomes a leg burner and fairly steep climb until the summit. Though all your hard work will certainly be worth it once you reach the summit as you will be treated to 360º views and amazing vistas. To the north, you can see Indian Pond, which provides the water for our Kennebec River whitewater rafting trips. On the west side of the summit, there are some ledges that make a perfect seat to watch the sun set at night. Bring your camera!
Directions from Three Rivers
Take US-201 North for 3 miles. Before the bridge that crosses the Kennebec River, take a right turn onto Lake Moxie Road. Take Lake Moxie Road 5.2 miles all the way to the end. At the T-shaped intersection, make a left onto Troutdale Road (dirt road). Continue 1.9 miles to a small clearing on the right-hand side of the road that has a large boulder with a red bear paw print. Across the road at this point is a property at 412 Troutdale Road. The trailhead is at this clearing.
Pleasant Pond Mountain
Location
The Forks, Maine
Difficulty
★★★
Distance
3 miles roundtrip
Description
Pleasant Pond Mountain sits next to Pleasant Pond, a deep body of water known for its clear waters. The Appalachian Trail (AT) passes through Caratunk here – you’ll be following the AT to the summit. The AT is well-marked with signs and markers, but pay attention: two white blazes means the trail turns or changes soon, as there are some side trails on this section.
The first section of the trail is fairly flat, but the last half gets a little steep as you approach the summit.
Pro tip! Continue passed the summit sign for two overlooks that provide the best views on the mountain
You will have a great view of Moxie Pond and Mosquito Mountain, and in the distance, you can see many mountains on the horizon in all directions.
Directions from Three Rivers
Take US-201 South for 4.4 miles to the town of Caratunk. Make a right turn onto Main St. in Caratunk where the Maine Forest Service station is located. Proceed for half a mile and turn right onto Pleasant Pond Road. Drive 3.2 miles until you reach Pleasant Pond; veer left onto North Shore Road. Drive 1.3 miles on North Shore Road – the road turns to gravel after 0.3 miles. Where North Shore Road turns into Boise Road, take a right on a short dirt road on the right with a small AT sign, which leads to the trailhead.
Moxie Falls
Location
The Forks, Maine
Difficulty
★
Distance
1.7 miles roundtrip
Description
“The Most Must See Waterfall in The Forks”, Moxie Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in New England at over 90 feet! Just a few minutes up the road from The Forks Fun Resort.
The trail into Moxie Falls is fairly flat the entire way. At the end of the trail are several wooden viewing platforms. It is possible to climb down on the rocks toward the falls and Moxie Stream (both upstream and downstream of the waterfall); however, please take caution while doing so as the rocks are extremely slippery. If you come on one of Waterfall Excursions, one of our guides will show you the safest way down to the coolest spots.
Read our blog post on Moxie Falls here!
Directions from Three Rivers
Take US-201 North for 3 miles. Before the bridge that crosses the Kennebec River, take a right turn onto Lake Moxie Road. Take Lake Moxie Road 1.9 miles. The parking area for Moxie Falls is on the left.
Grand Falls
Location
Coming Soon
Difficulty
★
Distance
1.0 mile roundtrip
Description
Grand Falls is a horseshoe-shaped waterfall that measures 40 feet tall and 100 feet across. There are some amazing views from different perspectives, especially in the fall. You are also likely to encounter some wildlife – such as moose and bald eagles – on your journey to Grand Falls, including on the drive there.
The Grand Falls Hut of the Maine Huts & Trails system is located nearby, and offers meals during its full service season.
NOTE: The drive to Grand Falls follows a dirt logging road that is not in the best shape. That’s to say, your truck or SUV will probably make it with no problem, but driving on the road probably isn’t the best idea in your Camry!
Directions from Three Rivers
Take US-201 North for 5.9 miles. Turn left on Lower Enchanted Road. Continue on Lower Enchanted Road for 14.1 miles, which will bring you to a large parking area near the put-in for our Dead River whitewater rafting trips. Continue to the right here to another parking area closer to the river. Walk over the bridge and follow the signs to Grand Falls.