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Cliff Trail
4.7 ★★★★★ 322 Google reviews · Running trail in Harpswell, Maine · Posted hours
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Posted hours
Confirmed from Cliff Trail's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Oceanfront trail through the forest, with a steep cliff drop-off and an overlook.
What runners say about Cliff Trail
“A newly redone trail on the left makes for an easy walk to some beautiful views.”
“After that ends a more rugged trail begins which is well marked with a lot of exposed roots so best not to be looking at phone while hiking.”
“A newly redone trail on the left makes for an easy walk to some beautiful views.”
This place was a wonderful find for my husband, myself, and our dog (big plus!) We spent the day checking out points of interest in the area and this one intrigued us. We started directly behind the town hall which puts you out near the recycling facility. The woods and trails were absolutely beautiful.
Beautiful & peaceful hike with alllllll the Acadia National Park. It is 45 minutes outside of Portland & short 10 minute drive from downtown Brunswick. The 2.5 miles long hike starts in a forest then ends up following along the coast with beautiful water / cliff views.
This was a beautiful hike. It is mostly through forest and occasionally pops out toward the water to reveal quintessential Maine views of the coast. The water is emerald green and clear. The trail has little elevation gain, making it awesome for a relaxing stroll or trail run.
Omg! The views are worth every step along this amazing trail! I would love to live near this place. I would visit often. The trail was very icey the day we went,but Sooo worth the trip. Micro spikes for sure. I can't wait to revisit this place and have a nice afternoon lunch on the cliff.
Trail conditions & character
“I am happy with the cliff walk views, though majority would be walking through the woods which means not much sun.”
“While the hike may be on the shorter distance wise- it’s an intense work out with lots of roots / rocks to get over, some steep areas around the cliff side & some scrambling.”
“This trail has some steep area's to clamber up and down so consider what kind of shape you are in, some very steep drop offs in places so consider that if bringing young children.”
“Parking lot was very close to trailhead, friendly people, not too busy on a weekday.”
“A moderate length loop, with well spaced 'climbs' making it a challenge for casual hikers and a fun fast hike for those more experienced.”
“4 mile trail section offering beautiful views of Strawberry Creek; this section is accessible for folks with mobility devices compliant with ADA guidelines.”
“This place was a wonderful find for my husband, myself, and our dog (big plus!”
“After that ends a more rugged trail begins which is well marked with a lot of exposed roots so best not to be looking at phone while hiking.”
“Also a section that is level and well graded easily suited for children or people with disabilities.”
Plan your run at Cliff Trail
The practical stuff
- AccessPosted hours — posted hours below; park gates sometimes close earlier than the listing says
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Stroller / wheelchairReported as smooth and step-free enough for a running stroller or a chair.
- Websiteharpswell.maine.gov
- Phone+1 207-833-5771
- Social Facebook
Hours
| Monday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Tuesday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Wednesday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Thursday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Friday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Saturday | 6 am–8 pm |
| Sunday | 6 am–8 pm |
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