The Best Hiking Trails and Parks in Bangor
According to TripAdvisor®
If you’re looking to get out of the city and into the great outdoors, look no further than Bangor! There are plenty of nice parks and trails in the Bangor Area for you to explore, while viewing the stunning scenery without having to travel far at all.
#4 The Kenduskeag Stream Heritage Trail
Image Taken by Sara Caldwell – Maine Trail Finder Website
Difficulty: Easy – Pets: Permitted
Traveling down through Main Street, this dirt and gravel trail starts at Gomez Park, where the Kenduskeag River flows into the Penobscot. From there, it’s a 2.3 mile historical adventure upstream through downtown, with points along the way giving you historical facts about the stream.
Head across the walking bridge, and continue along the opposite bank of the stream towards Harlow Street; here you can cross the bridge and enjoy lunch at the picnic area at Gateway Park. Walking along the trail you’ll see views of “Lovers’ Leap” cliffs and the rapids that follow. The trail continues across the bridge up Valley Avenue, all the way to the 1-95 Overpass where you can end your historical adventure.
#3 Cascade Park

Image taken from Trip Advisor
Difficulty: Easy – Pets: Permitted
Known for many Weddings, Prom Pictures, and Engagement Photos, Cascade Park is located on State Street, just North of Eastern Maine Medical Center (Northern Light Health).
Only a .5 mile hike, this trail branches two ways uphill that ultimately meet in the middle. This trail travels through White Pine forest, leading you by the top of a 20 foot tall man-made waterfall. Here you can see beautiful views of the park below. This trail travels along the outskirts of the forest, eventually turning you around and leading you back to where you came in. There is also a shorter trail that leads you up the side of the waterfall, connecting to the main trail at the top of the hill.
#2 Penobscot River Walkway/Bangor Waterfront Trail
Image taken from TripAdvisor
Difficulty: Easy – Pets: Permitted
This mile hike is beautiful all year round! Walk along the edge of the Penobscot River with views of Bangor, Brewer, and architectural sculptures. Stop at the food trucks for lunch, and catch a Waterfront Concert in the evenings all summer long. This hike is the perfect quick getaway! (You can also see our Realty of Maine office from here)
#1 Bangor City Forest
Image taken from AcadiaVisitor.com
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate – Pets: Permitted
Officially known as the Rolland F. Perry City Forest, this large network of trails lies on the city of Bangor’s northern border with Veazie and Orono. With more than 680 acres of wildlife habitat, these trails vary in length and difficultly. There are over 4 miles of gravel access roads for easy walking, and over 9 miles of “secondary” trails for running, hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and more. Each time you visit the forest, you can take a new and exciting trail for stunning views and outdoor fun.
So the next time you’re in the Bangor area, feel free to “take a hike” at any of the trails mentioned, plus more! There are over 20 hiking and walking trails located in Bangor. Enjoy your small “getaway” adventure today!