Maine’s Most Dramatic Coastline
The Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land protects 12,000 acres of the most striking ocean scenery in the northeastern United States. This is the Bold Coast, where dark volcanic cliffs drop straight into the Atlantic, and the forest grows right to the edge of the rock. There are no guardrails, no visitor centers, and no crowds. Just miles of raw, windswept headlands that look more like the Scottish Highlands than anything you would expect in Maine.
The state manages the property as a backcountry preserve. A 10-mile trail system loops along the coast through spruce forest and across exposed headlands that rise 150 feet above the surf. Three primitive campsites sit right along the cliff edges, offering some of the most dramatic tent spots on the entire Eastern Seaboard.
The sea cliffs along the Cutler Coast are steep, unfenced, and undercut in places. Loose rock, wet grass, and sudden gusts of wind near the edge are all real hazards. Stay back from the cliff edges, especially in fog or rain. A fall here would be fatal.
The Trail System
The main route is the Coastal Trail, a roughly 5.5-mile one-way path that runs from the trailhead on Route 191 south along the coast and then loops back through the interior forest. Most hikers do the full loop as a day hike of about 10 miles. The coastal half is the highlight. The inland return is easier walking through quiet spruce woods.
The first mile from the trailhead crosses relatively flat terrain through dense spruce and fir. Then the forest opens up and you get your first look at the cliffs. From there, the trail hugs the coast for several miles, dipping in and out of small coves and climbing over headlands with long views in both directions.
The footing is rough in places. Expect exposed roots, muddy stretches, and rocky sections along the cliff tops. This is not a groomed path. Ankle-supportive footwear makes a difference.
Start on the Coastal Trail heading south along the cliffs, and return via the Inland Trail. This way you hit the dramatic ocean views while you are fresh, and the easier woodland walk comes at the end when your legs are tired. Most people hike it this direction, and the campsites are positioned for it.
Primitive Campsites
Three backcountry campsites are spaced along the coastal section of the trail. Each site has a few tent platforms, a fire ring, and a pit privy. There is no water provided. You must carry all your water or filter from seasonal streams, which can run dry by late summer.
The sites are first-come, first-served with no fees or permits required. On summer weekends and during fall foliage season, they can fill. Arriving midweek or earlier in the season gives you a much better chance of having a site to yourself.
Camping at these sites puts you on the edge of 100-foot cliffs with nothing between your tent and the open Atlantic. At night the sound of the surf echoes up the rock walls. At dawn, fog often rolls across the headlands and burns off as the sun rises. It is one of the most memorable camping experiences in Maine.
The campsites closest to the trailhead fill first because backpackers with heavy loads do not want to walk the extra miles. The farthest site is the most scenic and the least crowded. If you are willing to push a bit farther, you will likely have it to yourself even on a busy weekend.
Getting There
The trailhead is on Route 191 in Cutler, roughly 2.5 hours from Bangor and 5 hours from Portland. Cutler is a small fishing village with a general store but limited services. Stock up on food and fuel before you arrive. Machias, about 20 minutes north, has grocery stores and gas stations.
The parking area at the trailhead holds about 15 cars. A small sign marks the start of the trail. There are no restrooms at the trailhead.
This part of Downeast Maine is genuinely remote. Cell service is nonexistent along the coast and unreliable even in Cutler village. Tell someone your plans before you go.
When to Go
Spring
Muddy trails and black flies in May and June. Fog is frequent. Wildflowers on the headlands are a bonus.
Summer
Long days, warmest weather, best trail conditions. Fog can roll in any morning. Bring layers.
Fall
Fewer bugs, crisp air, stunning light on the cliffs. Water sources may be dry by late September.
Winter
Exposed coastal headlands get brutal wind and ice. Trails are not maintained. Not recommended.
Late August through September is the sweet spot. The black flies are gone, the weather is still warm enough for comfortable camping, and the coastal light turns golden in the shorter days. Fog is less frequent in fall than in summer, so you are more likely to get clear views along the cliffs.
Packing List
Cutler Coast Packing List
- 3+ liters of water (sources unreliable in summer)
- Water filter or purification tablets
- Tent rated for wind
- Sleeping bag (40F minimum, 30F for fall)
- Rain jacket and wind layer
- Hiking boots with ankle support
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Camp stove and fuel
- Map (no cell service for navigation)
- First aid kit
- Bug spray (May through July)
FAQ
Is camping free at Cutler Coast?
Yes. The three primitive campsites are free and first-come, first-served. No permits or reservations are required. Each site has tent platforms, a fire ring, and a pit privy.
How long does the full Cutler Coast loop take?
The full 10-mile loop takes most hikers 5 to 7 hours as a day hike. Backpackers heading to the campsites typically take 2 to 3 hours to reach the farthest site.
Is there water on the trail?
Seasonal streams cross the trail but they can run dry by late summer. Carry at least 3 liters and bring a filter. There is no treated water anywhere on the property.
Are dogs allowed at Cutler Coast?
Yes, dogs are allowed and should be kept under control. Keep them away from the cliff edges, as the exposed headlands are dangerous for dogs that like to run ahead.
Is there cell service at Cutler Coast?
No. There is no cell service along the coast or at the trailhead. Limited service may be available in Cutler village. Plan accordingly and leave your itinerary with someone.
