Located in Camden is one of the most beautiful summits in all of Maine. It’s rivaled only by the lovely forest you’ll need to travel through to get there. But, it’s not all gorgeous views and lush vegetation here. There’s actually a spooky tale that explains why you might hear some phantom whispers or maybe a distant scream once you get to the top.
The Maiden Cliff trail is connected to Camden Hills State Park, so you’ll want to make your way in this direction!
Doug Kerr / Flickr
The Maiden Cliff Trail is about one mile and moderately challenging.
sushiesque / Flickr But, once you’re there, the summit offers incredible views from about 800’ over Megunticook Lake.
The trail starts by following a small stream for about a half mile, after which the trail becomes more steep, leading to a plateau.
sushiesque / Flickr
During the summer, the hike will lead you through lots of lush greenery.
sushiesque / Flickr
But, admire with care because the higher you go, the steeper things become!
sushiesque / Flickr
The trail opens up to ledges at the top of the cliff where the hike meets the plateau.
sushiesque / Flickr
After the mile hike, you’ll be thrilled with the view and the accomplishment, but listen carefully…
sushiesque / Flickr
A steel cross marks the spot where 11 year old Elenora French fell to her death in 1862.
sushiesque / Flickr
According to the story that’s told today, the young girl met her demise when her hat blew off during a blustery day.
sushiesque / Flickr In an attempt to retrieve it, the young girl fell and was killed. She either died at the site or was carried home where she later passed away. Her spirit still haunts the area, which is marked by the cross.
If you dare to continue after reaching this spooky summit, there’s more to see! Continue from Maiden Cliff Trail to Scenic Trail, which is nearly one mile. This will bring you to the Miller ledges with a beautiful iew of Ragged and Bald Mountains to the west along with a much larger view of the entirety of Megunticook Lake.
From the these ledges, you can continue along the Ridge Trail deeper into Camden Hills State Park or you can return using the Ridge Trail and head for the parking area and the Maiden Cliff trailhead.
For another fun (and far less haunted) way to explore Maine, check out our waterfalls weekend road trip by clicking here!
Doug Kerr / Flickr
sushiesque / Flickr
But, once you’re there, the summit offers incredible views from about 800’ over Megunticook Lake.
sushiesque / Flickr
In an attempt to retrieve it, the young girl fell and was killed. She either died at the site or was carried home where she later passed away. Her spirit still haunts the area, which is marked by the cross.
If you dare to continue after reaching this spooky summit, there’s more to see! Continue from Maiden Cliff Trail to Scenic Trail, which is nearly one mile. This will bring you to the Miller ledges with a beautiful iew of Ragged and Bald Mountains to the west along with a much larger view of the entirety of Megunticook Lake.
From the these ledges, you can continue along the Ridge Trail deeper into Camden Hills State Park or you can return using the Ridge Trail and head for the parking area and the Maiden Cliff trailhead.
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