Bauneg Beg Mountain Conservation Area

A Small Mountain With a Big View

Bauneg Beg Mountain is a modest 866-foot summit in North Berwick, protected within an 89-acre conservation area that the Great Works Regional Land Trust assembled in three pieces across 2000 and 2001. The mountain has three peaks, and despite its low elevation it earns its reputation as one of the better short hikes in York County. From the open ledge on the Middle Peak, the best lookout, you can see northwest to New Hampshire’s White Mountains and east to the Atlantic on a clear day.

The forest here is a tidy mix of hardwoods and conifers, with a pine grove and granite ledges along the way. The signature feature is the Devil’s Den, a jumble of large boulders near the summit that gives the climb a bit of scramble for anyone who wants it. It is a popular family destination precisely because you get a real summit and a real view for a fairly short, manageable effort.

The Trails

There are about two miles of trail in the conservation area. From the trailhead on Fox Farm Hill Road, the well-built Bauneg Beg Mountain Trail climbs gently for roughly half a mile to a junction. Bear left onto Ginny’s Way for the easier route that loops around and up to the summit while skirting the boulders. Bear right onto Linny’s Way if you want the rockier line through the Devil’s Den, with a brief scramble that is steep but not technical for most hikers. The full out-and-back to the summit runs well under two miles round trip.

Overall the hike is moderate, mostly because of the short steep pitches and the boulders rather than any real distance. It is a good first summit for kids who are ready for a little clambering. Note that the conservation area’s separate South parcel does not currently connect to the main trail system by trail.

Sites & Amenities

This is a simple trailhead preserve. There is a small parking area on Fox Farm Hill Road at the address 281 Fox Farm Hill Road, a trail kiosk, and that is about it. There are no restrooms, no drinking water, and no trash service, so come prepared and carry everything out. Dogs are welcome and the area is family-friendly. The preserve is open year-round and is used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter as well as hiking the rest of the year.

Getting There

From Route 4 or Route 9 in the North Berwick area, follow local roads to Fox Farm Hill Road; the trailhead and small lot are on the road at number 281. It is roughly an hour up from Portland and well off the beaten path, so cell service can be spotty on the approach. The roads are quiet and rural, so watch your turns and use a downloaded map if you are unsure.

When to Visit

Fall is the standout for the views, but this is a reliable hike any time the trail is clear of ice.

Packing List

FAQ

For another southern Maine summit with coastal views, try Mount Agamenticus, or chase a waterfall nearby at Orris Falls.