The 8,000-Acre State Park In Maine That Stands Out From The Rest
By Michelle|Published November 03, 2018
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Michelle
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Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
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While the states out west might get a lot of the attention for outdoor activities, those who live in New England know that the east offers some of the best ways to enjoy nature. And, while we might be biased, Maine might just be the best of those here. Vacationland is dedicated to helping support and preserve our natural land, which might be why we’ve got 36 State Parks! With all that choice, it might be hard to visit them all. So, if you’re looking to make one your go-to outdoor destination consider Mount Blue State Park in Weld.
Located in the Lakes & Mountains Region of western Maine, Mount Blue is second in size only to Baxter State Park, home of Katahdin.
Many people visit simply for the view of impressive 3,000 foot Mt. Blue, but those looking to explore the region will find a huge network of trails.
For a little perspective, Mt. Blue is almost as tall as Little and Big Jackson Mountains to the north and just a bit taller than Tumbledown Mountain to the west.
In the summer there’s a wonderful sandy beach, camping area, boat launch and picnic area to enjoy.
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To experience the namesake mountain, you’ll need to plan for a 3 mile hike there and back. It’s considered a moderate hike, so before setting off be sure you can handle a more strenuous trip.
The hike can be done all year round, but the road that leads to the parking lot is closed in the winter which means a 2.5 mile hike to get yourself to the trailhead.
To get to the trailhead when the parking lot is open, head to Mt. Blue Road and drive for about 2.5 miles. When you hit the logging road, you’ll stay to the right and continue for nearly 2 miles after the fork in the road. You’ll soon be at the parking lot, which is well marked.
There are two snowshoe trails: Rock Lookout Trail and Center Hill Trail. They’re both fairly easy, but Rock Lookout Trail offers less of a challenge.
Both trails start at the same trailhead and and follow the same route for for a while. Eventually, they split, but each will lead you to a scenic overlook.
If you prefer cross-country skiing you’ll love the 6 trails here!
You can also explore the 25 miles of trail by ATV and snowmobile. Some wish the trail would be separated by motorized and non-motorized accessibility, everything is maintained well making it easy to enjoy just about anything you like.
Whether you love summer or winter, there’s something to enjoy at Mount. Blue State Park. Have you visited? Share any tips you’ve got in the comments!
For more of what Maine has to offer outdoors, check out these 12 state parks here in Vacationland that are sure to impress you just as much as Mount Blue State Park!
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