Are dogs allowed on Back Cove Trail?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Back Cove Trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Back Cove Trail?

No, Back Cove Trail does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Back Cove Trail?

Back Cove Trail is rated easy. It is 3.2 miles long with 157 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Back Cove Trail?

Back Cove Trail is best hiked in spring, summer, and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See Maine trail conditions

EasyLoop

Maine

Back Cove Trail

Portland, Maine

3.2 mi

Distance

157 ft

Elev. Gain

Loop

Route Type

Easy

Difficulty

About This Trail

Back Cove Trail is a 3.2-mile loop located in Portland, Maine, offering a relatively flat and easy walking experience. The trail encircles the scenic Back Cove, providing users with views of the water and the Portland skyline. With an elevation gain of just 157 feet, it is accessible for most users looking for a leisurely walk or run. The surface is primarily dirt, which may be uneven or muddy at times.

From Wikipedia

Back Cove Trail is a 3.6-mile (5.8 km) multi-use trail in Portland, Maine. It circumnavigates Back Cove, running beside Preble Street Extension, Baxter Boulevard and Interstate 295. It is one of the oldest trails in the city.

Source: Wikipedia — text licensed CC BY-SA 4.0. Verify trail conditions and seasonal closures with the managing agency before you go.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

uneven surface

Elevation Profile

Min:-1 ft

Max:7 ft

48 ft

Trail Details

Dogs on leash

Route Type: Loop
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

We don't have curated agency sources for this trail in our cache yet. Outdoors is not the permitting authority — confirm conditions, permits, and access with the managing agency before you go. If you know who manages this trail, please tell us.

Best Seasons

Spring Summer Fall

Highlights

scenic water viewscity skyline

Reviews

No reviews yet

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Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.