Visit The Grand Canyon Of Maine To See The Beautiful Changing Leaves This Fall
By Catherine Armstrong|Published October 11, 2019
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
Maine couldn’t possibly be farther from Arizona’s Grand Canyon; it’s a journey of almost 3,000 miles. The Grand Canyon is an American icon, and it is impressive, but we have to say…we have some pretty incredible scenery right here in the Pine Tree State. We also have our own Grand Canyon, and while it’s not as massive as the one in Arizona, we think that ours is every bit as good, if not better!
Welcome to Maine's very own Grand Canyon. Gulf Hagas is one of the most stunning areas of the state, and it's not only known as Maine's Grand Canyon - it's considered The Grand Canyon of the East.
Over millions of years, the Pleasant River cut its way through the slate that makes up the steep cliffs, and it's still a topsy-turvy river with lots of waterfalls, both small and large.
This place is absolutely stunning year-round, but you'll definitely want to pay it a visit during autumn months, when the vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and red paint the landscape.
Gulf Hagas is located along the northernmost 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail, and you can hop on the trail to explore for yourself. The Gulf Hagas trail is 7.5 miles, out and back, and there's a $10 fee for Maine residents, and an $15 fee for out-of-state visitors.
The rugged trail takes you through some of Maine's most beautiful scenery, and though it's a fairly remote area, you'll likely share the trail with others.
Though Alltrails.com rates this trail as moderate, make no mistake - this part of the state is remote, and you'll want to be prepared. Cell service is non-existent here, so make sure to have a paper map and compass.