Hatchet Mountain Preserve - Hope, ME
Hatchet Mountain Preserve – Dog-Friendly Hiking in Hope, Maine
Looking for a pet-friendly trail in Hope, Maine? Hatchet Mountain Preserve offers a short but steep hike with scenic overlooks and rewarding views of Penobscot Bay and the surrounding area. This 1.8-mile roundtrip trail is perfect for dog owners seeking a bit of adventure and exercise with their four-legged companions. The climb is continuous, with a combination of dirt paths and large flat rocks, and there are several viewpoints along the way to take in sweeping vistas.
While not a traditional dog park, Hatchet Mountain Preserve welcomes dogs on its trail, making it a top choice for dog-friendly hiking in Midcoast Maine. The trail can get muddy after rain, and parking is limited to a very small lot (about 3 cars). The ascent is challenging but short, offering both cardio exercise and beautiful natural surroundings—ideal for active dogs and their owners looking for a rewarding outdoor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are there walking or hiking trails connected to the park? Yes, Hatchet Mountain Preserve is known for its hiking trail to the summit, featuring scenic overlooks and continuous elevation gain.
- Where is the best place to park? There is a small parking lot at the trailhead, but it only fits about three cars, so plan accordingly.
- Is the park muddy after it rains? Yes, the trail can be muddy, especially near the top, and may have puddles or running streams after heavy rain.
Reviews
Fairly steep uphill climb but pretty views along the way and at the top.
Great views of the back side of Camden Hills, Lincolnville, Camden, Vinalhaven, Isleboro, and more. Short hike, great views.
Not a long hike, but it is a constant incline with no flat parts until you’ve nearly reached the top. Not a ton of wildlife, but lots of birds, and sometimes there may be a frog in or near the little pool about 2/3s of the way up. Tends to be muddy near the top. Views from the summit are mostly obstructed by trees, but there are some nice scenic overlooks on the way up. I like this hike for exercise more than I like it for an outdoor experience, but I do still like it.
Excellent Hike!
Clean, Steep Switchbacks.
The view at the summit is worth the work.
Loud rushing water throughout hike.
Mountain Runoff can turn icy over rocks near the peak.
Tiny parking lot. Might fit 3 cars at most.
Short, moderately-easy, fun yet challenging hike!
This hike is located in Hope, Maine on Hatchet Mountain road. The hike itself with a bit of walking around at the summit was 1.8 miles. Total elevation is 1101 feet.
Short and quick but steep so if you keep a good pace you’ll get some good cardio! There are three look out points including the summit with very nice views of Penobscot bay and the surrounding area.
The trail itself is not marked but is easily followed. It zig zags at a continuous climb. There are areas of plain dirt and large flat rocks to navigate. There are some very wet areas as well. We went a day after some heavy rain and there were some streams still running on the trail and puddles.
All in all a great quick hike with rewarding views!