A bird sitting on a nest of eggs.

Hiking Near Bethel, Maine

Shorter Routes icon

Shorter Routes

These hikes keep it under 5 miles and climb less than 1,500 feet, making them ideal for quicker outings or lower-key days. Perfect for a morning stretch, a casual afternoon, or getting outside without committing to a big push. Don’t let the stats fool you — many still pack in great views and rewarding moments.

Riverside Pathway

Hike Route

Riverside Pathway

Fishing
moderate
4.66 mi
+28 ft
Step Falls Trail

Hike Route

Step Falls Trail

Fall Colors
moderate
0.99 mi
+218 ft
Mt. Crag

Hike Route

Mt. Crag

Cave
strenuous
2.21 mi
+665 ft
Ledge to Pine Mountain Loop

Hike Route

Ledge to Pine Mountain Loop

Fall Colors
strenuous
3.31 mi
+844 ft
Black Cap Trail

Hike Route

Black Cap Trail

Birding
moderate
2.49 mi
+677 ft
Diana's Bath Out and Back

Hike Route

Diana's Bath Out and Back

Fall Colors
easy
1.05 mi
+45 ft
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Adventurous Routes

These routes go beyond 10 miles and are built for days when you want to cover more ground and push a little deeper. Expect longer distances, more effort, and bigger payoffs — whether that’s remote terrain, summit views, or a full-day challenge. Ideal for hikers looking to go farther and stay out longer.

The Presidential Traverse

Hike Route

The Presidential Traverse

Fall Colors
strenuous
17.06 mi
+7,780 ft
Mount Cabot to Unknown Pond Loop

Hike Route

Mount Cabot to Unknown Pond Loop

Less Crowded
strenuous
10.45 mi
+3,270 ft

Other Nearby Routes

Not finding what you're looking for? These additional nearby hikes offer more ways to get outside and explore the area. With a mix of lengths, difficulty levels, and terrain, you're likely to find something that fits your plans for the day. And remember, you can always use the onX Route Builder to create your own adventure from scratch.

Gentian Pond Out and Back

Hike Route

Gentian Pond Out and Back

Fall Colors
strenuous
7.59 mi
+1,463 ft
Old Speck Out and Back

Hike Route

Old Speck Out and Back

Birding
strenuous
6.51 mi
+2,984 ft
Mount Madison

Hike Route

Mount Madison

Less Crowded
strenuous
7.63 mi
+4,043 ft
Pinkham Notch to Mount Washington Summit

Hike Route

Pinkham Notch to Mount Washington Summit

Fall Colors
strenuous
7.69 mi
+4,258 ft
Mount Washington via Tuckerman Ravine Trail

Hike Route

Mount Washington via Tuckerman Ravine Trail

Views
strenuous
7.67 mi
+4,243 ft
Mount Kearsarge North Trail

Hike Route

Mount Kearsarge North Trail

River/Creek
strenuous
5.69 mi
+2,579 ft