Spring Hiking Basics: What to Wear and Pack for Spring Hiking in Maine
Let’s face it—Spring hiking is messy. Due to melting snow, frequent rain, and warmer temperatures softening the ground, you’re more likely than not to step in mud or slip on wet rocks. But with proper preparation and gear, you’ll be able to spend more time enjoying the scenery and less time maneuvering around the mud.
In this blog post, I will share everything you need to know to prepare for Spring hiking in Maine—including what to pack, my favorite Spring walking trails, my go-to Spring hiking clothes and gear, and tips for Spring hiking in Maine.
Spring Hiking Conditions
During April and May, hikers can expect wet and muddy trails, soft ground, and slippery rocks—due to spring thaw and rain. The ground will be soft, but please stay on designated trails. Consider exploring local, low-elevation trails to help minimize impact on highly-trafficked trails. By mid to late June, most trails dry out and wildflowers are in bloom. Black fly season typically starts mid-May and lasts through June.
Preparation: Check the Weather Forecast
Checking the weather forecast should always be the first step in preparing for a hike. To get an accurate forecast, use a weather website or app that provides hourly forecasts. Enter the location of the hike to obtain local, up-to-date weather information. Look for key details such as temperature, precipitation chances, wind speed, and any warnings or advisories that may affect your plans. It can also be helpful to check the forecast for the days leading up to your hike, as it will impact hiking conditions.
Preparation: Trail Research
The next step is to research the trail you hope to hike. When researching a hiking trail, begin by utilizing reputable online resources. My go-to resources for trail information are the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands website, which has maps and guides for many of the public lands in Maine and Maine Trail Finder, which provides web-based interactive trail maps and up-to-date trail information. Our Hikes + Trails page also has detailed blog posts about Maine hikes. Local hiking forums or community groups (like Maine Hiking Facebook Group) can be helpful too.
What to Pack
Once you’ve decided on a hiking trail, it’s time to gather all the supplies you’ll need for your Spring hike. Click here to view a comprehensive list of all my hiking essentials and gear.
Water + Food
Water: at least 2 quarts of water per person while hiking
Water filtration: like a Sawyer Squeeze water filtration system or Lifestraw
Food: enough to replenish the calories you’re burning while hiking
First Aid
First Aid kit: that includes an emergency blanket, multi-sized bandages, pain relievers, disinfectant, bleed clot etc.
Navigation
Paper map
Satellite GPS device: like this Garmin InReach
Headlamp or flashlight
Personal Care
Sunscreen: I like the roll-on sunscreen for a hands-free application
Toilet kit
Lip balm
Insect repellent
Seasonal Gear
Hiking poles: for extra traction on uneven ground
Microspikes or crampons: to safely walk on ice and packed snow
What to Wear
Footwear
Opt for a waterproof or water-resistant hiking boot with really good traction to prevent slipping in muddy and wet conditions. Pair your boots with ankle or knee-high gaiters to help prevent dirt and water from getting into your boots. Always pack a pair of microspikes or crampons in case you encounter icy trail. And don’t forget the Darn Tough wool socks—they’ll keep your feet comfortable all day long.
Clothing
Light layers are the name of the game when it comes to Spring hiking, as temperatures generally start in the 30s or 40s and can reach 50-60 degrees by late afternoon.
*Use code MYMAINE to get 20% off your next Stio purchase
First layer: lightweight, moisture-wicking tops and bottoms
Second layer: a lightweight or mid-weight fleece
Outer layer: water and wind-resistant hardshell jacket
Accessories: lightweight hats, gloves, and sunglasses for sun protection
*Use code MYMAINE to get 20% off your next Stio purchase
Spring Hiking Tips
Hate wet feet? Pack an extra pair of socks to change into at the summit or when you get back to the car
If you want a drier hike, stick to walking trails and trails lower in elevation until mid-June
In Maine, Spring is when black bears come out of hibernation, so be sure to carry bear spray
Looking for a new walking trail? Check out these five scenic walking trails in Southern Maine
Leave no Trace
When it comes to enjoying time outdoors, remember the golden rule: Leave No Trace. It’s as simple as picking up after yourself, staying on the trails, and leaving nature just as beautiful as you found it. By practicing Leave No Trace, you help preserve the magic of Maine for future adventurers to enjoy, so everyone can keep enjoying the same beautiful, wild world we love.
Interested in more Maine hiking information and tips? You can find them all here.
Want more Maine travel inspiration? Follow MyMaine on Instagram!
If you love spending time outdoors in Maine, be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the page (or click here) and subscribe to my e-mail list! By doing so, you’ll be the first to receive all of my latest and greatest outdoorsy Maine content straight to your inbox! And I solemnly swear that I won’t sell your e-mail to spammers or scammers living in their parent’s basement.
With love,
My Maine
