Bangor, Maine is a beautiful city with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. From hiking trails to scenic walks, there’s something here for everyone.
I’m here to share some of the best walks in the area. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, these 15 walks will help you explore the great outdoors of Bangor.
Let’s take a look at some of the best walks in Bangor, from Castle Park to the Bangor Historical Society Trail.
Get ready for some fresh air and beautiful views!
Castle Park
You’ll love taking a stroll through Castle Park – its stunning views and peaceful atmosphere make it the perfect spot for a relaxing walk!
With its lush green grass, and a large variety of vibrant flowers, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful landscape as you wander around.
The park also offers a few gentle trails that wind around the area, providing a great opportunity to take in the scenery. You’ll even be able to get a panoramic view of the city from the top of the hill.
And, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can venture off the beaten path and explore the woods! With a variety of wildlife and calming sounds of the wildlife, you’ll be able to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and relax in nature.
No matter what type of walk you’re looking for, Castle Park is sure to have something to offer.
Bangor Mountain
Head up Bangor Mountain for a stunning view of the city and surrounding area. The mountain is located near the north end of the city and is a popular location for locals and visitors alike.
This is a great spot for a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike. The terrain varies, with some sections being mostly flat and some rather rugged. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city, mountains, and sea. On a clear day, you can even see the Isle of Man.
There are also plenty of opportunities for birdwatching, so bring your binoculars! For a peaceful and serene walk, try the path along the base of the mountain. This route offers a gentle stroll with plenty of trees and greenery to enjoy. In the summer months, the wildflowers add a pop of color to the landscape.
No matter which path you choose, Bangor Mountain is sure to provide a memorable outdoor experience.
Penobscot Riverwalk
Stroll along the Penobscot Riverwalk for an unforgettable experience of Bangor’s waterfront. This riverside trail stretches along the east side of the river, offering stunning views and a peaceful ambiance.
Take in the sights of the river, the lush greenery, and the city skyline from the pedestrian bridge at the end of the walk. Enjoy the serenity of the walk with a picnic or just take in the fresh air and sunshine.
The trail also offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, as you can spot a variety of birds, ducks, and other species throughout the route. With benches along the way, it’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a romantic sunset walk.
When you reach the end of the trail, take a stroll through the nearby historic downtown and explore the shops, restaurants, and galleries. The Penobscot Riverwalk is a great way to explore all that Bangor has to offer and experience its unique waterfront.
Kenduskeag Stream Trail
Take the Kenduskeag Stream Trail for an unforgettable journey through Bangor’s wilderness. This 12-mile trail is a great option for those looking to explore the city’s natural beauty. As you walk, you’ll be surrounded by lush foliage and have the chance to spot some of Bangor’s native wildlife. From the banks of the Kenduskeag Stream, you can take in the city’s skyline and get an up-close look at its many historic buildings.
Along the way, you’ll also find plenty of places to stop and take a break, including a few scenic bridges and overlooks. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, the Kenduskeag Stream Trail offers something for everyone. With its varied terrain and breathtaking views, this trail is a must-see for any outdoor enthusiast.
Paul Bunyan Statue Trail
Embark on a unique journey along the Paul Bunyan Statue Trail and discover Bangor’s legendary lumberjack.
This one-mile trail is located on the Bangor waterfront and is a great way to explore the city’s historical and cultural heritage.
With views of the Penobscot River, the trail takes you through a variety of landscapes from dense forest to open fields.
Along the way, you’ll find the iconic Paul Bunyan statue, a 30-foot-tall bronze sculpture of the beloved lumberjack, complete with an axe and a wooden ox.
Throughout the trail, you’ll also find many other historical monuments, such as the Joshua Chamberlain monument, which commemorates the Civil War hero, and the Mark Twain Statue, which honors the famous author.
On your journey, you’ll also come across the Thomas Hill Standpipe, a water tower that was built in 1887.
The Paul Bunyan Statue Trail is the perfect way to explore the vibrant culture and history of Bangor.
Stillwater River Walk
Discover the beauty and history of Bangor on the Stillwater River Walk, a peaceful path along the banks of the Penobscot River. Stroll through the woods with the river in view, and take in the peace and serenity of the environment.
The Stillwater River Walk is a 3.5 mile path through the woods, allowing you to take in the sights and sounds of the natural world. As you walk, you’ll encounter wildlife and native plants that can’t be found anywhere else.
The Stillwater River Walk also offers glimpses into the past. Alongside the path, you’ll find historic markers that tell the stories of the area’s Native American inhabitants. These markers offer a glimpse into the history of Bangor and the region’s inhabitants.
The Stillwater River Walk is truly a unique experience that allows you to appreciate the beauty and history of Bangor.
Hammond Street Trail
Leaving the tranquil atmosphere of Stillwater River Walk behind, I headed to the Hammond Street Trail for a different kind of Bangor experience. This trail is much shorter than the Stillwater River Walk and can easily be completed in just an hour.
It passes through the city, so it’s a great way to explore the sights, sounds, and smells of Bangor. The Hammond Street Trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk walk. It’s mostly paved, but there are plenty of spots to take a break and enjoy the local wildlife.
I love how the trail is lined with trees, giving it a peaceful and serene atmosphere. Plus, the trail offers great views of the city skyline. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploring Bangor.
Kenduskeag Trail
Exploring the Kenduskeag Trail, I was enveloped in a peaceful atmosphere. The trail is a 10-mile long path that winds alongside the Kenduskeag Stream, offering visitors a chance to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The scenery is breathtaking, with lush trees and plants lining the banks of the stream, and the occasional deer or fox darting across the path. The trail also offers a wide range of difficulty levels, allowing you to choose a path that suits your needs. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, the Kenduskeag Trail has something for everyone.
The trail has several points of interest, including a historic covered bridge built in 1881. The bridge is a great place to stop and take in the views of the stream and the surrounding landscape.
The trail is also home to a variety of wildlife, from bald eagles to beavers. It’s a great place to observe nature in its element, and to experience the beauty and tranquility of the outdoors.
It’s easy to see why this trail is one of the best walks in Bangor.
Cascade Park Trail
Leaving the winding Kenduskeag Trail behind, I made my way to Cascade Park Trail, which is situated in the heart of Bangor. This 2.5-mile trail is a popular spot for locals, and it offers a great spot for a peaceful walk.
The trail is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. I was immediately struck by the beauty of the park, with its towering trees and gentle stream flowing nearby. The trail takes you through the woods, and along the way, you can take in the sights of the historic Cascade Falls.
As I walked along the path, I could hear the sound of the rushing water, and I could feel the peacefulness of the area. The trail offers plenty of opportunities to take in nature, with its diverse wildlife. I spotted a variety of birds, squirrels, and even a few deer.
It was a great way to get away from the everyday stresses of life and just enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. With its easy terrain and stunning views, Cascade Park Trail is one of the best walks in Bangor. It’s the perfect spot to take a leisurely stroll and appreciate the beauty of the outdoors.
Essex Woods Trail
Just a short drive from Bangor, I ventured to Essex Woods Trail, a picturesque spot for a hike.
Nestled in the woods, this little-known trail offers plenty of natural beauty, with lush evergreens and vibrant wildflowers.
While the trail is mostly flat, it winds through the forest, offering plenty of opportunities to explore and take in the scenery.
Essex Woods Trail also offers several side trails that lead to the banks of the Penobscot River.
Here, you can sit and enjoy the peacefulness of the river while taking in the sights and sounds of nature.
The trail also features a few loops, which allow for a longer hike, as well as some challenging terrain for more experienced hikers.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, Essex Woods Trail has something for everyone.
Bangor City Forest
Leaving behind the serene Essex Woods Trail, I’m now heading to explore the Bangor City Forest.
This is an expansive area of woodland that spans over 4,000 acres and is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
The forest offers a range of trails suitable for all levels of hiking experience, from short, easy walks to longer, more challenging hikes.
There are also plenty of opportunities for bird watching, wildlife spotting, and camping.
With its diverse array of flora and fauna, the Bangor City Forest is a great place to get away from it all and immerse yourself in nature.
The trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, so it’s easy to find your way around.
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, the Bangor City Forest is sure to have something to suit your needs.
Bangor Landfill Nature Trail
For those looking for something a bit different, the Bangor Landfill Nature Trail is an excellent option. Located adjacent to the Penobscot River, the trail is a three-mile loop that takes you through forests, wetlands, and open fields. It’s a great way to get off the beaten path and enjoy the beauty of nature.
The trail is a perfect place to observe wildlife, with plenty of birds, trees, and wildflowers to be seen throughout. It’s a great spot for a peaceful hike or a leisurely stroll. And with its flat terrain and easy access, it’s an ideal spot for people of all ages and abilities.
Whether you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll or a more strenuous hike, the Bangor Landfill Nature Trail is an ideal spot to explore.
Orono Bog Boardwalk
Experience the mesmerizing beauty of nature at the Orono Bog Boardwalk. Located on the campus of the University of Maine, this boardwalk meanders through a stunning, mile-long meadow of wildflowers and grasses, the perfect place for a peaceful stroll.
Along the way, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the Orono Bog, a rare and fragile wetland teeming with wildlife.
The boardwalk takes visitors through the unique ecosystem of the bog, from its forested uplands to its stunningly beautiful wetlands. The boardwalk is designed to minimize the environmental impact of visitors, with platforms that allow you to enjoy the views without disturbing the plants and animals.
Along the way, you’ll find interpretive signs that provide information about the plants and animals you’ll find in the bog. There are also plenty of benches and picnic tables, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful lunch in nature.
Bangor Waterfront Walk
Take a leisurely stroll along the Bangor Waterfront Walk and explore the area’s rich culture and history.
You’ll be surrounded by a picturesque view of Penobscot Bay and the city of Bangor.
The walk is a two-mile stretch, making it the perfect spot to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and get a taste of the area’s natural beauty.
Enjoy the sights of the historic Bangor waterfront, including the Kenduskeag Stream, Bangor Harbor, and the Penobscot River.
During your leisurely walk, you’ll come across some of Bangor’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Bangor Waterworks and the Bangor Public Library.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll or an educational experience, the Bangor Waterfront Walk has something for everyone.
Bangor Historical Society Trail
Discover Bangor’s rich history and culture by exploring the Bangor Historical Society Trail. The trail begins at the Bangor Historical Society, located in the heart of the city, and takes visitors through the city’s history with multiple interactive stops along the way.
The interactive stops include a replica of the first Bangor jail, the John F. Hill Grange Hall, and the Bangor Opera House. The trail also takes visitors to some of the most iconic sites in the city, including the Paul Bunyan statue, the Kenduskeag Stream, and the Penobscot River.
The Bangor Historical Society Trail is a great way for visitors to learn about the city’s past and gain a greater appreciation of the people and culture of Bangor. The trail is also a great way to get some exercise in the outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the city.
Whether visitors choose to take a leisurely stroll or an invigorating walk, the Bangor Historical Society Trail offers something for everyone.
Conclusion
I had an amazing time exploring some of the best walks in Bangor. From the breathtaking views atop Bangor Mountain to the peaceful stroll along the Penobscot Riverwalk, I enjoyed every minute.
I also loved the Orono Bog Boardwalk and the Paul Bunyan Statue Trail, which gave me some insight into the history of the area.
I’m so glad I got to take in the beauty of this great city and all the wonderful walking trails it has to offer. I’m sure I’ll be back to explore more in the near future!