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Sometimes Maine seems like a distant land, almost as if it is a forgotten state.
But that is not the case at all. It’s actually quite easy to get to, whether via an adventurous road trip or via a flight to Portland, the Pine Tree State’s trendy city.
Oddly enough, we’re not here to hype lobster rolls and beautiful beaches for a change.
It’s time to dive deep into Maine and discover one of the state’s most stunning hidden gems.
Often overshadowed by the insanely beautiful Acadia National Park, there’s a little-known region that offers vibrant fall colors and serene waterfalls without making you want to karate chop off someone’s selfie stick.
Hyaaa!
Revealing the locals’ favorite retreat
Called the ‘Grand Canyon of Maine’this secret place is real Bangor!
Predicting crowds can be a fickle topic, and if we’re honest, sometimes we wander into nature to escape human interaction for some much-needed solitude and relaxation.
The good news is that there are numerous hiking trails in and around Gulf Hagasa scenic canyon located in the mountains of Northern Maine’s wilderness.
The bad news is that locals come here as one of their favorite getaways to immerse themselves in some of the state’s most beautiful landscapes.
According to Maine TrailfinderOn weekends between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. it can be busy with walkers.
The site even suggests that you should go outside peak hours to score a parking spot.
Many of these people are frequent visitors, but many are not typical tourists that will hold you back.
Make sure you take the bridge
Zac Brown certainly didn’t have Gulf Hagas on his mind when he wrote, “I wish I was knee deep in water somewhere…”
But hey, that could be you if you take the wrong path.
To avoid a Zac Brown remix in the Pleasant River, your best bet is to park at the Gulf Parking Area.
Here you will find a much more convenient trailhead equipped with a crossing bridge, giving you easier access to the wonders of the Gulf of Hagas.
We’ve all heard of the famous Appalachian Trail. This is your chance to explore and cross it off your bucket list.
Although you will have to make a branch for direct access to the postcard-worthy waterfalls.
Nearly a mile from the river is the blue-colored Rim Trail, the place to go for the best viewpoints.
Offers beautiful views of the falls. Keep an eye out for a short trail that connects to Screw Auger Falls just 0.2 miles after the stile.
Many end up doing a full Rim Trail loop because it’s so scenic, which is about 5.5 miles round trip.
Although, for more adventure, the full circuit of the Rim Trail and Pleasant River Tote Road covers eight miles.
Any way you slice it, you can expect spectacular views in the heart of Maine’s seemingly unspoiled wonders, where the gorge itself rises a whopping 400 feet.
Dazzling fall colors and Grand Canyon vibes
Chasing waterfalls is fun and all, but many around the world find themselves peeping at leaves, unless your name is Tom.
Then maybe find a new hobby.
Beyond the falls lies Gulf Hagas, a deep, rocky gorge carved by the West Branch of the Pleasant River, offering lush scenery in the fall as green turns to red, yellow and orange.
Despite exuding a ‘Grand Canyon’ vibe, it’s important to know that it’s not a popular tourist attraction and so isn’t equipped with modern viewpoints and enough parking to absorb the majestic views.
And let’s say Adele’s Chasing sidewalks provides the best road trip number to access the site.
Hiking the Appalachian Trail is also not for the faint of heart. Yes, there is flat ground, but good equipment is always recommended and should not be taken lightly.
Is it worth it? Absolute.
One visitor summed it up on TripAdvisor by saying: “The view was great and the walk was of medium difficulty (my ten-year-old did the loop, which was about four hours from the car park).”
Entrance fees – No credit cards
Gulf Hagas is not located in a state park; it is actually on private property.
Don’t worry, though. The head hancho charges $11 for Maine residents, $16 for other residents (18 and under are free).
Payments are accepted the old-fashioned way, so prepare in advance. Cash and checks only.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
