8 of My Favorite Summer Hikes as a USM Student

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8 of My Favorite Summer Hikes as a USM Student

July 29, 2026

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by Emma Comparato

Looking for a way to get outside and reconnect with nature this summer? Well, if your friend group is up for a drive, waterfall sighting, or scenic run, keep reading! I’ve picked out some of my favorite hikes for you to try—and none of them require expert hiking skills

A student strikes a tree pose yoga position on the rocky base of Arethusa Falls in Crawford Notch, NH. The massive waterfall cascades down a wide granite rock face behind her, surrounded by green trees under a bright blue sky.

1.

Arethusa Falls, Crawford Notch, NH

At about 1.5 hours away, this 5.5-mile hike features 1,650 feet of elevation gain. I did it with a friend and my grandma! The views at the end are incredible. Arethusa Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in New England. It’s the perfect place to cool down after your hike.

Smalls Falls in Rangeley, ME rushes down a series of rocky ledges surrounded by dense green pine trees under a clear blue sky. Natural pools are visible at the base of the falls.

2.

Smalls Falls, Rangely, ME

At about 2 hours away, this one is a much shorter and flatter trail. The best part is that you can easily take a swim in the pools at the top and bottom of the falls. It’s a great option that can accommodate kids and dogs. Another perfect hike for a hot summer day.

3.

Cliff Trail, Harpswell, ME

Just a 50-minute drive from Portland, Cliff Trail is well worth the trip! The drive is scenic, too! This hiking trail winds through the trees and along the cliffs. It’s about 2 miles long with some steep sections, although the elevation gain is only about 265 feet.

4.

Monhegan Island Cliff Trail, Monhegan, ME

All right, hear me out: You may have to drive a few hours and take a ferry to get here, but I promise you’ll remember these views for a lifetime. This 4.5-mile loop circles Monhegan Island. Make it a nice day trip or spend a night or two camping on the island!

A view of the rocky coastline on Monhegan Island, ME, framed by dark evergreen branches overhead. Rugged cliffs drop down to the calm blue Atlantic Ocean, with another rocky headland visible in the distance under a hazy sky.
Emma stands on the rocky cliffs of Monhegan Island, ME, arms crossed and gazing upward, with the blue Atlantic Ocean and small rocky outcroppings stretching behind her under a bright partly cloudy sky. Shot on film.

5.

Rattlesnake Mountain, Casco, ME

Super close to Portland, this hike is located in the Sebago Lakes region. It has a substantial elevation gain and gorgeous views once you reach the top. You should be able to summit this 3-mile hike in less than two hours.

6.

Fore River Sanctuary, Portland, ME

Let’s bring things back to campus. Fore River Sanctuary offers the only natural waterfall in Portland. The full trail is just under 6 miles, but it’s a pretty peaceful hike—you could even call it a walk.

Two people take a selfie on the secluded beach at the end of the Morse Mountain trail in Phippsburg, ME. Both are bundled up in winter jackets, smiling, with a wide sandy beach and dramatic cloudy sky stretching behind them.

7.

Morse Mountain, Phippsburg, ME

Morse Mountain is one of my personal favorites. The trail leads to a secluded beach where you won’t see many people. Enjoy 2 miles of beautiful Maine scenery just about an hour from Portland. What’s not to love?

A sweeping sunset view from the top of Cathedral Ledge in Bartlett, NH, looking out over a vast stretch of forested New Hampshire mountains. Pink and purple clouds streak across a soft blue sky, with a faint moon visible above the treeline.

8.

Cathedral Ledge, Bartlett, NH

If you’re looking for another gorgeous drive to New Hampshire, this is the place to go. The views here are lovely, especially at sunrise and sunset. The trip is less than 2 hours from Portland. The trail itself is 0.3 miles with an elevation gain of about 100 feet.

Whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon escape from classes or studying, or a weekend adventure with friends, these trails are a great reminder that some of Maine’s best, underrated views are just a short drive away. Or maybe a ferry ride away.