Hiking Table Rock in Grafton Notch State Park
Trail Name: Table Rock
Location: Grafton Notch State Park
Distance: 2.4 miles
Elevation gain: 869 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Pets: Allowed
Grafton Notch State Park is easily my favorite Maine State Park—because of all the nostalgic memories I have exploring the park and also because it has a little something for everyone. The park is home to picturesque waterfalls, natural swimming pools, deep caves, beginner hikes, difficult hikes, stunning views, and plenty of peace and quiet.
In this blog post, I will be sharing everything you need to know before hiking Table Rock in Grafton Notch State Park—including how to access the trailhead, parking information, trail descriptions, the best time to visit, as well as several insider tips for visiting the park.
Preparation
Before heading out on a hike, it's essential to check the weather forecast to ensure safe conditions. Packing necessary supplies, such as water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit, will help you stay prepared for any situation. Additionally, wearing appropriate footwear and clothing will help keep you safe and warm and reduce the risk of injury on the trail. Click here to learn more about what to pack and wear for a Maine hike. For winter hiking tips, click here.
Directions/Parking
The trailhead for Table Rock is located at the Appalachian Trail parking area, off Route 26 in Newry. Old Speck and the Eyebrow Loop also share the same trailhead and therefore the same parking lot. Because there is one parking lot for all three trails, the parking lot fills up fast in the Summer and Fall. There are primitive toilets available for use directly next to the parking lot.
Trails
There are two trail options for hiking Table Rock. Click here to view the trail map.
Table Rock Loop Trail (2.4 miles, moderate, not recommended for pets/small children)
Start on the Appalachian Trail for 0.1 mile, then take a right at the fork and follow the orange blazes for 1.2 miles. You will encounter steep trail and rock scrambles, as well as dark caves and views of Grafton Notch. After enjoying the summit, follow the blue blazes until you arrive at the Appalachian Trail junction. Continue to follow the white blazes back to the trail junction you started at. Be careful not to turn onto the Baldpate Mountain Trail.
AT/Table Rock Loop Trail (1.8 miles, moderate, okay for kids and pets)
Start on the Appalachian Trail for 0.1 mile, then take a left at the fork and follow the white Appalachian Trail blazes until you get to the Baldpate Mountain Trail junction. At this junction, continue to follow the blue blazes until you arrive at the steel ladder that will bring you to the Table Rock summit. After enjoying the summit, descend the same way you came, via the blue-blazed Table Rock Trail and the white-blazed Appalachian Trail.
The Summit
Table Rock provides amazing 180-degree views of Grafton Notch, including Old Speck, the Eyebrow Loop, and the rest of Grafton Notch. The summit is consumed of a giant rock ledge that steeply drops off-so be sure to leave plenty of distance between yourself and the edge and keep an eye on any kids and pets.
Insider Tips
Best nearby eats: Le Mu Eats, Steam Mill Brewing, Kowloon Village Chinese Restaurant
Be sure to stop by Puzzle Mountain Bakery for delicious pies, cookies, Maine whoopie pies, etc.
The best time to visit: June-August, because you can explore the waterfalls and natural swimming pools after your hike
In the Winter, I would recommend hiking the in-and-out AT/Table Rock Loop Trail
In the Summer and Fall, aim to arrive before 9:00a.m. or have a back-up hike in case the parking lot is full
There is no cell phone service in Grafton Notch, so be sure to tell people your hiking plans or bring a satellite communication device with you so you can let people know when you have summited and when you have made it safely back to your car
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. Think of it like being a good guest—keep things clean, respect the wildlife, take only memories and leave behind only footprints. 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.
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