The Best Mountain trail access in Portland, Maine

The Back Cove Trail Parking is a popular park located in Portland, Maine, United States. With over 70 miles of trails and green space in Greater Portland, this institution offers stunning views of the Portland skyline. It is perfect for walking, running, biking (road/mountain), and dog walking. The trail features benches, two water fountains (seasonal), and portable toilets in the parking areas at Preble Street Extension and Payson Park. The loop trail has stone dust and paved surfaces, mostly flat with a slight rise along the stretch that parallels I-295. The Back Cove Trail connects to the Bayside and Eastern Promenade Trail under Tukey’s Bridge and is maintained by the City of Portland. For more information, contact Portland Trails at 38 Diamond Street or call (207) 775-2411.

The Mountain Room at Peak Lodge, located at 15 Three Mile Trail in Newry, Maine, is a must-visit dining destination brought to you by Portland restaurateur and chef Harding Lee Smith. Accessible via the Chondola, this ski resort dining experience offers table seating, a beautifully designed bar with stunning mountain views, and an outside deck overlooking Sunday River's front range. The midday-only menu features a wide selection of imaginative small plates perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch, along with craft Maine brews and cocktails. Indulge in dishes such as local eggs with gribiche and pancetta, Pig's head fries with meat gravy, La Quercia whipped prosciutto with white anchovy, and Wagyu beef with lime and cilantro. Don't miss the house-made husk cherry preserve and Maine sea salt paired with the creamy foie gras, or the popular Sean's Oxtail Marmalade on toast. Come experience the culinary delights of The Mountain Room at Peak Lodge.

Potter’s Place is a picturesque campground, lodging, and park located at 115 Bakers Grant Road in Lebanon, Maine. Nestled in a wooded valley on the grounds of a 19th century New England homestead and tree farm, this peaceful retreat offers over 160 acres of woods and fields to explore. The highlight of the property is a six-acre pond fed by a spring-fed stream, perfect for fishing or simply relaxing by the water. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities including an indoor recreation area, heated swimming pool, and well-maintained lawn areas for outdoor games. The campground offers 100 sites with electric and water hookups, picnic tables, and fireplaces, all set among towering pines and hardwoods for maximum privacy. For added convenience, there are hot showers, flush toilets, and a dumping station on site.

Presumpscot River Preserve, located at 99 Overset Road in Portland, Maine, is a beautiful 48-acre public nature preserve along the Presumpscot River. With over 70 miles of trails and green space in Greater Portland, this park is a popular tourist attraction for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail at Presumpscot River Preserve follows a deep ravine, offering stunning views of the river and surrounding wooded areas. Boardwalks and bridges make the trail accessible for hikers and mountain bikers, with the option to explore short loops into upland areas or continue along the shoreline under the highway overpass.