Bradbury Mountain Summit Trail, Maine
A Short Climb to Sweeping Views
Just 30 minutes from Portland, Bradbury Mountain Summit Trail offers a trail that’s as inviting as it is rewarding. The Summit Trail may be short just over half a mile one way but its gently rising path leads to one of the region’s most picturesque panoramic overlooks.
Whether you’re lacing up hiking boots for the first time or just want a nature fix between errands, this is the kind of trail that makes outdoor exploration feel natural and accessible. Wide, well-trodden paths, steady elevation and rewarding scenery at the top make it ideal for beginners, kids and leashed pups alike.
What You’ll Love About It
There’s something satisfying about a trail that gives you mountaintop views without demanding a mountain-climber’s effort. Here’s what makes Bradbury’s Summit Trail shine:
🟢 Panoramic Payoff: The summit opens up to sweeping vistas of forested hills, farmlands, and—on clear days—shimmering glimpses of Casco Bay.
🍁 Fall Color Paradise: Come autumn, the trail transforms into a tunnel of red, gold and orange, with the summit view lit up by a sea of vibrant foliage.
🐾 Pet & Family Friendly: The trail is easy enough for school-age kids and leashed dogs, with picnic tables nearby if you want to make a day of it.
Trail At-A-Glance
- 📍 Location: Bradbury Mountain State Park, Pownal, Maine
- 🧭 Trailhead Coordinates: 43.8986° N, 70.1787° W
- 🌄 Summit Coordinates: 43.9016° N, 70.1801° W
- 📏 Distance: ~0.6 miles to the summit (~1.2 miles round trip)
- 🔼 Elevation Gain: ~300 feet
- ⏱ Time: 30–45 minutes round trip
- 🌲 Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- 🚽 Facilities: Restrooms, picnic areas, and parking
- 🐶 Dog-Friendly: Yes, leashed
- 💵 Entry Fee: $6 for Maine residents, $8 for non-residents; free for Maine seniors
What to Bring Along
Even though this trail is short and sweet, a little prep goes a long way:
- Water bottle (especially in summer)
- Sturdy walking shoes or trail runners
- Hat or sunscreen for the exposed summit
- Bug spray during warm months
- A light jacket—winds at the summit can be brisk, even in spring
Why It’s a Must for New Hikers
Bradbury Mountain’s Summit Trail proves you don’t need a multi-hour trek to feel like you’ve conquered something meaningful. The views are impressive, the trail is welcoming and the park offers a peaceful slice of Maine that’s easy to return to again and again.
Whether you’re just starting your hiking journey or want a dependable trail for quiet resets, Bradbury Mountain belongs on your beginner bucket list.