Hedgehog Mountain Trail Head - Freeport, ME
Hedgehog Mountain Trail Head – Dog-Friendly Hiking in Freeport, Maine
Hedgehog Mountain Trail Head is a pet-friendly gem nestled just outside downtown Freeport, Maine. Known for its dog-friendly hiking trails and peaceful forest setting, this spot offers well-marked, easy hiking paths leading to a modest summit with views of Mount Washington and the Harraseeket River. It’s a popular local destination for dog owners looking for a relaxed walk with their pups, thanks to its easy incline and ample natural beauty. The trails are open year-round, and you’ll often find other dog lovers enjoying the scenic, shaded woods.
Dogs are allowed off-leash at Hedgehog Mountain, but owners should be aware that not all pets are under strict voice control and encounters with off-leash dogs are common. While amenities like benches are available at the summit for resting, there is a noticeable need for more trash bins and waste stations, as dog waste bags can sometimes be found along the trails. Parking is limited, especially outside spring and summer months, so plan to arrive early for a spot in the small lot, and be mindful of seasonal restrictions.
FAQ
- Are dogs allowed off-leash at this park? Yes, off-leash dogs are commonly seen, but owners must maintain control and be courteous to others.
- Is there a fenced area for dogs? No, the park does not have a fenced area for dogs.
- Are there benches or seating areas for owners? Yes, there is a bench at the summit for rest and enjoying the view.
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Hedgehog Mountain offers multiple hiking trails, some connecting to nearby preserves and river views.
- Is the park open year-round? Yes, the trails are accessible year-round, though parking is restricted from Nov 15–April 15.
- Is there parking available? Yes, but parking is limited and may be restricted during winter.
- Is there shade or shelter available? The wooded trails provide plenty of natural shade.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, trails can be muddy, especially in spring and after wet weather.
Reviews
Worth the visit. Not crowded. Nice peaceful forest. Summit is small but there’s a bench to stop, snack and take in a view of Mount Washington. Pay close attention to trail arrows. And turn around at points of trail options as the sign is only on one side and easy to miss a turn.
Good trails. Easy climb to the 290′ summit!
Nice trails with more options across the road. My only issue was: SO MANY DOG POOP BAGS. If you’re going to bag the poop, take it with you. Gives a bad name to dog owners. Was a great opportunity to explain to my child what a bad dog owner looks like, and what you should do. Take the bags with you. Unfortunately, looks like trash cans at trail entrances would help a lot. Just gross to walk down a nice trail and see 5+ fly covered smashed into the ground dog poop bags. Also lots of off leash dogs, one jumped on my kid’s back. It came running ahead of it’s owner and was very excited, but terrible dog owner adequate. Dogs shouldn’t be jumping onto strangers, you’re asking for trouble.
We hiked today – it was misty, so we missed out on the view.
The trails seemed to be relatively well marked compared to others we have been on. It was an easy trail, in my opinion. If you want to hike a “summit” without your heart bleeding into your lungs, this is probably not such a bad trail.
It is muddy, but it is spring and that’s understandable.
As with any trail, there are dogs off leash and people who don’t recall them and want their dog to say hi. So be aware of off Leash dogs that probably aren’t under voice command.
Was a nice hike in general. While it was not busy today, probably would avoid in the summer because it probably is popular.
You can see Mt. Washington at the summit of Hedgehog Mountain. It’s a nice easy incline walk, views are very nice.