While the states out west might get a lot of the attention for outdoor activities, those who live in New England know that the east offers some of the best ways to enjoy nature. And, while we might be biased, Maine might just be the best of those here. Vacationland is dedicated to helping support and preserve our natural land, which might be why we’ve got 36 State Parks! With all that choice, it might be hard to visit them all. So, if you’re looking to make one your go-to outdoor destination consider Mount Blue State Park in Weld.
Located in the Lakes & Mountains Region of western Maine, Mount Blue is second in size only to Baxter State Park, home of Katahdin.
binkley27 / Flickr
It gets its regal name from the spruce that grow along the granite slopes of the main mountain here, Mt. Blue.
Ben Thomas / alltrails.com The park takes up nearly 8,000 acres…or, 7,489 if we’re being specific.
Beautiful Webb Lake separates the park into two distinct sections, making it easy to plan your time in the park.
AllTrails User / alltrails.com Many people visit simply for the view of impressive 3,000 foot Mt. Blue, but those looking to explore the region will find a huge network of trails.
For a little perspective, Mt. Blue is almost as tall as Little and Big Jackson Mountains to the north and just a bit taller than Tumbledown Mountain to the west.
In the summer there’s a wonderful sandy beach, camping area, boat launch and picnic area to enjoy.
To experience the namesake mountain, you’ll need to plan for a 3 mile hike there and back. It’s considered a moderate hike, so before setting off be sure you can handle a more strenuous trip.
AllTrails User / alltrails.com
The hike can be done all year round, but the road that leads to the parking lot is closed in the winter which means a 2.5 mile hike to get yourself to the trailhead.
AllTrails User / alltrails.com
To get to the trailhead when the parking lot is open, head to Mt. Blue Road and drive for about 2.5 miles. When you hit the logging road, you’ll stay to the right and continue for nearly 2 miles after the fork in the road. You’ll soon be at the parking lot, which is well marked.
Scott Yonts / alltrails.com The the day is clear and sunny, you’ll be able to see almost all of Weld, including much of the the park and Webb Lake.
You’ll find tons of wildlife here, from moose to loons.
lisadonoghue / Flickr
But, the upcoming winter doesn’t mean you can’t still visit Mount Blue State Park. Some say it’s even better in the snow!
michaelcr / Flickr
You can find the the winter trails at the Center Hill Parking area next to headquarters.
usfwsnortheast / Flickr There are two snowshoe trails: Rock Lookout Trail and Center Hill Trail. They’re both fairly easy, but Rock Lookout Trail offers less of a challenge.
Both trails start at the same trailhead and and follow the same route for for a while. Eventually, they split, but each will lead you to a scenic overlook.
If you prefer cross-country skiing you’ll love the 6 trails here!
You can also explore the 25 miles of trail by ATV and snowmobile. Some wish the trail would be separated by motorized and non-motorized accessibility, everything is maintained well making it easy to enjoy just about anything you like.
woodysworld1778 / Flickr
qwrrty / Flickr Whether you love summer or winter, there’s something to enjoy at Mount. Blue State Park. Have you visited? Share any tips you’ve got in the comments!
For more of what Maine has to offer outdoors, check out these 12 state parks here in Vacationland that are sure to impress you just as much as Mount Blue State Park!
binkley27 / Flickr
Ben Thomas / alltrails.com
The park takes up nearly 8,000 acres…or, 7,489 if we’re being specific.
AllTrails User / alltrails.com
Many people visit simply for the view of impressive 3,000 foot Mt. Blue, but those looking to explore the region will find a huge network of trails.
For a little perspective, Mt. Blue is almost as tall as Little and Big Jackson Mountains to the north and just a bit taller than Tumbledown Mountain to the west.
In the summer there’s a wonderful sandy beach, camping area, boat launch and picnic area to enjoy.
AllTrails User / alltrails.com
Scott Yonts / alltrails.com
The the day is clear and sunny, you’ll be able to see almost all of Weld, including much of the the park and Webb Lake.
lisadonoghue / Flickr
michaelcr / Flickr
usfwsnortheast / Flickr
There are two snowshoe trails: Rock Lookout Trail and Center Hill Trail. They’re both fairly easy, but Rock Lookout Trail offers less of a challenge.
Both trails start at the same trailhead and and follow the same route for for a while. Eventually, they split, but each will lead you to a scenic overlook.
If you prefer cross-country skiing you’ll love the 6 trails here!
woodysworld1778 / Flickr
qwrrty / Flickr
Whether you love summer or winter, there’s something to enjoy at Mount. Blue State Park. Have you visited? Share any tips you’ve got in the comments!
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