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Generally Maine looks like a far-off land, nearly as if it is a forgotten state.
However that is not the case in any respect. It is really fairly simple to succeed in, whether or not by means of an adventurous highway journey or extra flights on the docket for Portland, the Pine Tree State’s stylish metropolis.
Oddly sufficient, we’re not right here to hype up lobster rolls and fairly seashores for a change.
It is time to dive deep into Maine to find one of many state’s most gorgeous hidden gems.
Usually overshadowed by the insanely beautiful Acadia Nationwide Park, there is a little-known area boasting vibrant fall colours and serene waterfalls with out eager to karate chop somebody’s selfie stick.
Hyaaa!
Unveiling Locals’ Tight-Lipped Favourite Retreat
Dubbed the ‘Grand Canyon of Maine’, this secret spot is an actual Bangor!
Predicting crowds is usually a fickle subject, and if we’re sincere, generally we wander into nature to flee human interplay for some much-needed solitude and downtime.
The excellent news is that there are quite a few trails in and round Gulf Hagas, a scenic gorge positioned within the mountains of northern Maine’s wilderness.
The dangerous information is that locals flock right here as considered one of their favourite retreats to immerse themselves in a few of the state’s prettiest surroundings.
In response to Maine Trail Finder, weekends between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. could be busy with hikers.
The positioning even suggests visiting exterior peak hours to attain a parking area.
Many of those persons are frequent guests, however many are usually not typical vacationers stopping you in your tracks.
Make Positive To Take The Bridge
Certainly Zac Brown did not have Gulf Hagas on the mind when writing, “Wishing I used to be knee-deep within the water someplace…”
However hey, that could possibly be you for those who take the mistaken path.
To keep away from a Zac Brown remix within the Nice River, it is best to hunt out parking on the Gulf Parking Space.
Right here, you’ll find a way more appropriate trailhead outfitted with a crossing bridge, making it simpler to entry the wonders of Gulf Hagas.
We have all heard of the well-known Appalachian Path—now’s your likelihood to discover it and cross it off your bucket checklist.
Though, you’ll need to department off for direct entry to the postcard-worthy waterfalls.
Almost a mile and a half from the river, the blue-blazed Rim Path is the place you will need to be for the most effective lookout factors.
Providing beautiful views of the falls. Maintain a lookout for a brief path connecting to Screw Auger Falls simply .2 miles after switching.
Many find yourself making a full Rim Path loop since it is so lovely, which is about 3.5 miles round-trip.
Though, for the extra journey, the whole circuit of the Rim Path and Nice River Tote Street covers 8 miles.
Nonetheless you divvy it up, anticipate spectacular views within the coronary heart of Maine’s seemingly untouched wonders, the place the gorge itself rises as a lot as 400 ft.
Eye-Popping Fall Colours And Grand Canyon Vibes
Chasing waterfalls is enjoyable and all, however many across the globe discover themselves peeping leaves, except your identify is Tom.
Then perhaps discover a new pastime.
Past the falls, Gulf Hagas is a deep, rocky gorge carved by the West Department of the Nice River, that includes luscious surroundings come fall, as greens remodel into reds, yellowes, and oranges.
Regardless of boasting ‘Grand Canyon’ vibes, it is necessary to know it is not a well-liked vacationer attraction, so it is not outfitted with fashionable lookout factors and plentiful parking areas to soak up the majestic views.
And let’s simply say Adele’s Chasing Pavements makes for the most effective highway journey music to entry the grounds.
Mountaineering the Appalachian Path is just not for the faint of coronary heart both. Sure, there may be some flat floor, however correct gear is all the time really useful and should not be taken flippantly.
Is it definitely worth the effort? Completely.
One customer summed it up on TripAdvisor by stating, “Views had been wonderful, and the hike was of common problem (my ten-year-old did the loop, which was about 4 hours from the car parking zone)”.
Entry Charges – No Credit score Playing cards
Gulf Hagas is just not positioned in a State Park; it is really set on non-public property.
Do not fret, nonetheless. The top hancho prices $11 for Maine residents, $16 for different residents (18 and beneath is free).
Funds are accepted the old-school manner, so put together prematurely. Solely money and checks.
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This text initially appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed listed here are the writer’s alone, not these of any financial institution, bank card issuer, resort, airline, or different entity. This content material has not been reviewed, authorised or in any other case endorsed by any of the entities included throughout the put up.