There is a bounty of beauty across Grafton Notch State Park’s expansive 3,129 acres in Maine’s Oxford County. The green space is situated between two mountain ranges, an impressive number of waterfalls, and a cave.
Thanks to a robust trail system from the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry, hikers are able to bask in the natural glory of the surrounding landscape.
Grafton Notch State Park was established in 1963 and, over time, grew in size as Maine’s state government acquired additional land to bring the site to its current sprawling status. The park has served as an ideal spot for outdoor recreation, picnicking, fishing, and hunting.
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
The park got its name from the Grafton Notch, which references the mountain pass between two neighboring ranges: Old Speck Mountain and Baldpate Mountain.
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Hiking opportunities within Grafton Notch State Park are on the western end. Two separate trails offer spectacular views of the mountain ranges. It should be noted several portions of the trail systems are considered advanced.
Lisa Hicks/Flickr
Hikers are able to view two waterfalls within Grafton Notch State Park: Screw Auger (pictured here) and Mother Walker.
Peter and Kelly/Wikipedia
Moose Cave is another popular attraction on the trail system.
Lisa Hicks/Flickr
In autumn, Grafton Notch State Park offers spectacular views of all the fall color as the multiple tree species prepare for winter’s hibernation.
ChrisDag/Flickr
To learn more about Grafton Notch State Park, visit the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s website. It includes information on park hours, fees, specific trail locations, and other pertinent information. Have you ever hiked Grafton Notch State Park? What was your experience there like? Feel free to tell us all about your adventures in the comments below — we’d love to hear from you!
J. Stephen Conn/Flickr
Doug Kerr/Flickr
Lisa Hicks/Flickr
Peter and Kelly/Wikipedia
Lisa Hicks/Flickr
ChrisDag/Flickr
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Grafton Notch State Park, Newry, ME 04261, USA