Back Cove Trail Portland Maine
A scenic 3.5-mile paved loop offering stunning harbor and city views, perfect for walking, running, and biking.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Back Cove Trail Portland Maine
Best Time
Serene atmosphere, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 3.5-mile paved loop offering stunning harbor and city views, perfect for walking, running, and biking.
"Beautiful views of the cove, harbor, and downtown make this a must-do for active visitors."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 3.5-mile loop is paved and great for walking, running, or biking. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a perfect spot for a pet-friendly outing. :dog:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Harbor Views
Along the entire loop
Stunning vistas of Portland Harbor, the islands, and the city skyline. Perfect for photos!
Urban Oasis Escape
The loop itself
A refreshing 3.5-mile loop for walking, running, or biking amidst city life.
Connected Trail System
Connects to Eastern Promenade Trail
Seamlessly links to other scenic paths for extended exploration and diverse scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Etiquette & Conditions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 3.5-mile loop is paved and great for walking, running, or biking. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a perfect spot for a pet-friendly outing. :dog:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for breathtaking shots of the cove, islands, and city skyline. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, carry water for your walk or run. :water_wave:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The 3.5-mile loop is paved and great for walking, running, or biking. :athletic_shoe:
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a perfect spot for a pet-friendly outing. :dog:
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for breathtaking shots of the cove, islands, and city skyline. :camerawithflash:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Especially on warmer days, carry water for your walk or run. :water_wave:
🚮 Pack Out What You Pack In
Help keep the trail clean by disposing of trash properly. :wastebasket:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Back Cove Trail's stunning harbor and city views, making it a picturesque spot for walks, runs, and bike rides. Its accessibility and connection to other trails are highly praised. However, some users have noted an increase in trash, suggesting a need for greater community care to maintain its beauty.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Back Cove Trail is easily accessible from downtown Portland. Many visitors find it convenient to park near the trailheads. If you're driving, look for parking options around the perimeter of Back Cove. Public transportation is also an option, with local bus routes serving the area.
Yes, there are several parking areas around Back Cove. These can fill up, especially on weekends, so arriving early is recommended. Some users suggest looking for parking near the Eastern Promenade for access to connected trails.
Absolutely! The Back Cove Trail is a popular spot for cyclists. It's a relatively flat, paved surface that's great for a leisurely ride or a more vigorous workout. You can also connect to the Eastern Promenade Trail for an extended biking adventure.
Yes, the paved surface of the Back Cove Trail makes it very stroller friendly. It's a great option for families with young children who want to enjoy a walk or a gentle bike ride.
From downtown Portland, you can walk or bike to the Back Cove Trail. It's a short distance and offers a pleasant introduction to the area. The Eastern Promenade Trail also connects to Back Cove, providing multiple access points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Back Cove Trail is a public park and is free to access. There are no admission fees or tickets required to enjoy the trail.
The Back Cove Trail is open year-round, from dawn until dusk. You can visit anytime to enjoy the scenic loop.
Yes, the Back Cove Trail is open in winter. While it may be snowy or icy, it remains accessible for those who enjoy winter walks or runs. Proper footwear is recommended.
There are no fees to use the Back Cove Trail. It's a public amenity for everyone to enjoy.
Reservations are not necessary for the Back Cove Trail as it is a public park. You can visit at your convenience.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Back Cove Trail is approximately 3.5 miles long, forming a loop around the cove.
You can enjoy walking, running, biking, and dog walking on the Back Cove Trail. It's a versatile space for various outdoor activities. 
The trail offers beautiful views of the Back Cove, Portland Harbor, the islands, and the city skyline. It's a picturesque setting for an outdoor stroll.
The trail can get crowded, especially during peak hours and on weekends. Visiting early in the morning or on weekdays can help you avoid the largest crowds.
Restroom facilities may be limited directly on the Back Cove Trail itself. It's advisable to use facilities before you start your walk or run, or check for nearby public restrooms.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Back Cove Trail is close to downtown Portland, which offers a wide array of dining options. You can find everything from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
While there aren't designated picnic areas directly on the trail, you can certainly bring your own food and find a scenic spot to enjoy a picnic. Remember to clean up after yourself.
Typically, there are no cafes or restaurants directly on the Back Cove Trail itself. The trail is primarily a recreational path. Dining options are concentrated in the nearby downtown Portland area.
Portland has a vibrant food scene. Near Back Cove, you'll find diverse options including seafood, Italian, American cuisine, and more.
It's often recommended to eat before or after your visit, as dining options are more plentiful in the surrounding city. This allows you to fully enjoy the trail experience without being tied to a specific mealtime.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire trail offers great photo opportunities. Look for spots with clear views of the harbor, islands, and the Portland skyline, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, provides beautiful lighting for photography. The colors of the sky and water are often stunning during these times.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with Portland Parks and Recreation or local authorities regarding drone operation policies in public parks to ensure compliance.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. If you're aiming for landscape shots, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial.
The iconic Portland skyline, the various islands in the harbor, and the bridges are popular subjects. The changing tides also offer dynamic photographic possibilities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Bring along some snacks and water, and you can easily turn this into a fun afternoon adventure. The open views of the water and the city provide engaging scenery for children. Plus, it's a great way to get kids active outdoors in a safe environment.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
+1Consider linking up with the Eastern Promenade Trail for a longer run, or explore other nearby trails like the Stroudwater Trail if you're looking for extended mileage and different scenery, as suggested by some local runners.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to bring waste bags to clean up after your pet, ensuring the trail remains pleasant for all visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Back Cove Trail System
This trail is part of a larger network managed by Portland Trails. It seamlessly connects to the Eastern Promenade Trail, allowing for extended adventures and varied scenery. This connectivity makes it a key component of Portland's extensive trail system, encouraging active lifestyles and exploration.
+1While the trail is generally well-maintained, some community members have noted occasional issues with litter. Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles and help keep the trail beautiful for everyone.
Despite this, the Back Cove Trail remains a vibrant and essential part of Portland's recreational landscape.Best Times to Visit for an Optimal Experience
Late afternoons present another excellent window, especially during the golden hour. The setting sun casts a warm glow on the landscape, creating picturesque views of the harbor and skyline. While it can be more populated than early mornings, it's generally less busy than midday.
Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. If your schedule allows, opting for a weekday visit will provide a more relaxed experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty and urban vistas without the hustle and bustle of weekend crowds.
Connecting Trails and Extended Adventures
+1For those seeking longer, flatter running routes, some locals suggest exploring beyond Back Cove. The Stroudwater Trail is mentioned as a lengthy option that bypasses the CO2 concerns some associate with the Back Cove area due to its proximity to I-95. This highlights the importance of considering various trail options based on personal preferences and environmental factors.
By understanding these connections, visitors can plan longer outings, combining different trails to create personalized running, walking, or biking experiences that cater to their desired distance and scenery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit