A Hilltop Overlooking the Heart of Downeast Maine
Blue Hill Mountain is a 934-foot monadnock that rises abruptly above the town of Blue Hill on the western shore of Blue Hill Bay. As a monadnock, a solitary mountain standing apart from other nearby high ground, it commands an outsized view for its height. The summit looks out over Blue Hill Harbor, the islands scattered across Penobscot Bay, and the full profile of Mount Desert Island and the mountains of Acadia National Park across the water.
The mountain sits on nearly 500 acres of conservation land managed by the Blue Hill Heritage Trust. Three well-maintained trails approach the summit from different directions, giving hikers options that range from a steep, direct ascent to a longer, more gradual woodland walk. All three are short enough for a morning or afternoon outing, and the views from the top justify every step.
The Trails
Osgood Trail is the most popular route, climbing approximately one mile to the summit in about 35 to 45 minutes. The trail starts from Mountain Road and ascends steadily through mixed forest, steepening as it nears the top. This is the most direct path and the one most visitors take.
Hayes Trail begins in an open field, climbs a stone stairway, and ascends through a stand of oaks into mature spruce and fir near the summit. At about 0.75 miles, it is the shortest route and the steepest. The stone stairway at the start is a nice touch.
Becton Trail offers a gentler option, winding about two miles through softwood forest dominated by large spruce and pine on the northwest slope. This is the easiest grade and the longest approach, good for hikers who prefer a more gradual climb or want a quiet woodland walk.
All three trails converge near the summit, where the trees thin and the views open up. You can combine two trails into a loop for variety.
The Summit Views
The summit of Blue Hill Mountain is open on its south face, with a communications tower (built in 1981 for local organizations) on one side and unobstructed views in most other directions. A fire lookout tower stood here from 1947 until 2005, when the Maine Forest Service removed it. The views remain.
To the south, Blue Hill Harbor and the town spread below. Beyond the harbor, Blue Hill Bay and its islands extend toward the open Atlantic. Mount Desert Island fills the southeastern horizon, with Cadillac Mountain, the Bubbles, and the other peaks of Acadia clearly visible. On very clear days, the view extends to Isle au Haut and beyond.
To the west and north, the rolling interior of Hancock County stretches away, a mosaic of forest, farms, and small towns that defines this part of Downeast Maine.
When to Go
Spring
Muddy through April. Wildflowers appear in May. Black flies from late May through June make the summit less enjoyable.
Summer
Warm weather and green canopy. Morning hikes beat the afternoon haze for views. The town of Blue Hill has restaurants and galleries for after.
Fall
Foliage in the surrounding hills is beautiful. Clear autumn air gives the sharpest views of Acadia and the bay. October is peak.
Winter
Short and accessible for a winter hike. Microspikes recommended. The bare trees open up even more views on the ascent.
Practical Notes
Combine the hike with a visit to the town of Blue Hill. The village has a strong arts community with galleries, pottery studios, and the Blue Hill Co-op. For food, there are several good options including a bakery and a waterfront restaurant. This is one of the most charming small towns in Downeast Maine.
Parking for the Osgood and Hayes trails is at trailheads off Mountain Road. The Becton Trail has its own trailhead. All parking is free. There are no restrooms at the trailheads.
Dogs are welcome on all trails and should be on leash or under voice control. The trails are managed by the Blue Hill Heritage Trust, and the land is open to the public year-round.
Cell service is generally good in Blue Hill and on the summit.
Packing List
Blue Hill Mountain Day Hike
- 1 liter of water per person
- Binoculars for views of Acadia and the bay
- Camera
- Bug spray May through July
- Light layer for the summit breeze
- Sturdy shoes (rocky sections on Osgood and Hayes trails)
Getting There
From Ellsworth, take Route 172 South to the town of Blue Hill, about 15 miles. Trailheads are off Mountain Road, which leaves from the village. From Bangor, the drive takes about 55 minutes via Route 1A and Route 15. From Portland, it is about 3 hours via I-95 and Route 1.
Blue Hill is about 20 minutes west of the causeway to Mount Desert Island, making it easy to combine with a visit to Acadia National Park.
FAQ
How long does the Blue Hill Mountain hike take?
Most hikers take 1 to 2 hours round trip, depending on the trail chosen. The Hayes Trail is the shortest at about 0.75 miles one way. The Becton Trail is the longest at about 2 miles.
Is the fire tower still on the summit?
No. The Maine Forest Service removed the fire tower in 2005. A communications tower remains on the summit, but the open ledges provide unobstructed views in most directions.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on all Blue Hill Heritage Trust trails and should be on leash or under reliable voice control.
Can you see Acadia from the summit?
Yes. Mount Desert Island and the mountains of Acadia National Park are clearly visible across Blue Hill Bay. Cadillac Mountain, the Bubbles, and other peaks are easy to identify on clear days.
Is it good for kids?
Yes. The short distances make this a good family hike. The Becton Trail has the gentlest grade. Older kids will enjoy the Osgood or Hayes trails.
For more in the area, see our guide to Acadia National Park or explore the coastal villages of the Blue Hill Peninsula.
