Estimated reading time: 6 minutes

I recently took a road trip to Aroostook County State Park as part of our fall foliage adventure to Presque Isle. We made it a priority to explore Aroostook State Park. Here’s a look into our morning hiking the QuaQuaJo Nature Trail, the best hike in Aroostook State Park.

The Best Hike In Aroostook State Park

I was torn about choosing a hike here because I had heard that the moderate-to-difficult Quaggy Joe Trail is a favorite in the area.

However, after tackling the high-elevation Haystack Mountain the day before, our legs were a bit too sore for another tough adventure.

Read about our Haystack Mountain Hike: Haystack Mountain: The Most Scenic Fall Hike In Maine

So instead, we decided to enjoy a more leisurely hike along the QuaQuaJo Nature Trail.

QuaQuaJo Nature Trail

The QuaQuaJo Nature Trail is a 1.2-mile loop with a low elevation gain of 124 feet. Here is a step-by-step guide on what to expect.

Starting Out: The XC Ski Trail

We started on the cross-country ski trail, which doubles as part of the QuaQuaJo Nature Trail in the warmer months.

Right off the bat, we were surrounded by a thick forest of maples, birches, and evergreens.

It was fall, so the colors were intense—reds, oranges, and yellows everywhere, with leaves carpeting the path.

The trail is easy to follow, with wide, clear paths. It’s mostly flat at this point, which makes it a smooth start.

Through the Forest to the Castle Tree

The first stretch loops around through the woods for a while. It’s a great section to just take in the sounds—birds chirping and leaves crunching underfoot.

After about 10 minutes, we came across the Castle Tree.

The Castle Tree is one of the park’s huge, likely-century old white pine trees. It has even become a resting place for bald eagles. You may even be lucky enough to spot one during your visit.

Apparently, it’s a landmark on the trail, and you’ll know it when you see it.

Heading Uphill On The QuaQuaJo Nature Trail

Past the Castle Tree, the trail started climbing. This uphill stretch isn’t too steep but enough to get your legs working a little.

It winds through more colorful trees and truly paints the perfect fall foliage picture.

The view got better as we went up, with patches of blue sky breaking through the treetops.

Reaching the Mossy Staircase

After a good stretch of walking uphill, we hit what felt like the trail’s most unique feature: a moss-covered staircase.

Moss covered each stone step, making them a bit slippery, so we had to watch our footing as we headed down.

Back to the Parking Lot

The staircase brought us back down to where we started, looping right back to the parking lot.

The whole loop took about 40 minutes, maybe a bit more since we stopped to enjoy the views and take pictures along the way.

It’s not a long hike, but it packs in a lot—especially in the fall when the colors make every turn look like a painting.

Tips for Hiking the QuaQuaJo Nature Trail

1. Timing: I’d definitely recommend visiting in the fall for the colors, but the trail’s open year-round.
2. Footwear: The trail is pretty easy, but sturdy shoes are a good idea, especially on the mossy steps.
3. Bring Water: It’s not a long hike, but water’s always a good idea, especially if you plan to linger.

Is it your first time hiking? Read my Informational Hiking Guides

How Much Is Aroostook State Park?

There is a small fee to visit Aroostook State Park: $3.00 for Maine residents and $4.00 for non-residents. If no one is at the entrance, there’s a drop box where you can pay, so be sure to bring cash.

This hike isn’t a tough one, but it’s exactly what you’d want if you’re looking to experience Maine’s autumn scenery up close. I honestly think it was the best hike in Aroostook State Park!

Explore More Of Maine

I’ve spent the past few years exploring the stunning state of Maine with the goal of visiting all its state parks.

You can check out my Maine State Park Travel Guides, where I share photos from my visits and provide firsthand tips.

If you are visiting Presque Isle, make sure to head over to Haystack Mountain: The Most Scenic Fall Hike In Maine,

Don’t forget to reward yourself with a delicious lobster roll. A Local’s Guide To The Best Lobster Rolls In Maine

Visiting in Winter? Here is Your Guide To Viewing The Northern Lights In Maine