The Fort Point State Park Hike at
Fort Point State Park in Stockton Springs, Maine is an easy 0.8-mile loop that features views of
Cadillac Mountain, the Penobscot River, and leads to the scenic Fort Point Light and Bell Tower.
Exploring Fort Point State Park
If you're looking for a quiet waterfront to explore with few-very people, Fort Point State Park is a great place along Maine's coastline that features views, a historical lighthouse, and an old war fort from the 1700s. Oh, and I mention it's pretty quiet here?
This track leads around the majority of the state park's trails and open grass pathways. Starting at the parking lot, this route heads south to reach the remnants of Fort Powell (1759 - 1779) which once stood on this site. The old fort is long-gone, but it's ramparts remain with short but steep slopes that used to define fort walls and boundaries. You can explore the old fort remnants between miles 0.05 and 0.1.
Fort Point Light - Mile 0.22
After exploring the old ramparts of Fort Powell, the route leads north toward the parking lot to connect with the main trail system. Follow the trail out toward the Penobscot River where you'll find nice views of the water and the scenic Fort Point lighthouse, known as Fort Point Light. Sitting to the side of the lighthouse is the Fog Bell Tower that was used to alert ships passing through the river to avoid the point. On the river side of the tower, you'll find the old bell and in the window of the tower you'll find historical information and a drawing of how the bell system worked.
Views of Cadillac Mountain - Mile 0.37
The next stop along this short hike leads from the Fog Bell Tower north to the shores of Fort Point where you'll find a rocky coastline and distant views of
Cadillac Mountain. You can also opt to sit along the less-rocky beach that can be found here. No swimming is allowed, however, due to strong currents.
Views & Dock - Mile 0.6
The last scenic stop along this hike leads west from the rocky beach to a dock / wharf that juts out from Fort Point into the Penobscot River. At mile 0.6, you'll find the dock, which was closed in May 2025 for repairs. At the dock, you'll find more water views and distant views of
Cadillac Mountain.
Hike to Parking - Mile 0.6 to 0.8
The last leg of this short hike leads from the dock, through the official trail system, to reach the parking lot. Follow the road of the parking lot around the loop to return back to your vehicle to complete the 0.8-mile loop.
Parking & Fees
There's a small $4/vehicle out-of-state fee or $3/vehicle in-state fee for visitors which can be paid when entering the park. Visitors will find many parking spaces along the loop drive in the park near the coordinates provided. The lot is large enough to fit about 20 vehicles, max, as of May 2025.
Pets
Dogs are allowed only if leashed and cleaned up after.
