Discover the Scenic Beauty of Back Cove Trail
Explore the stunning Back Cove Trail in Portland, Maine, a perfect destination for walking, jogging, and enjoying breathtaking views of nature and the city skyline.
Back Cove Trail in Portland, Maine, is a scenic waterfront path perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. This tranquil trail offers stunning views of the cove, city skyline, and the surrounding nature, making it a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
A brief summary to Back Cove Trail
- Portland, Maine, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and beautiful sunrise views.
- Bring your binoculars for birdwatching, especially in the spring and fall.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many benches along the trail.
- Check out the local art installations along the trail for a cultural touch.
- Plan your visit in autumn for stunning foliage and fewer crowds.
Getting There
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Bus
From Saco, head to the nearest bus stop on Main Street. Look for the bus that heads towards Portland, typically the 1 or 3 route. Purchase a ticket from the driver or use a mobile app if available. The bus will take you directly to Portland. Once you arrive at the Portland Transportation Center, exit the bus and walk towards the waterfront, following the signs for Back Cove Trail. It's about a 15-minute walk from the bus station. Head northeast on Franklin Arterial towards the intersection with Congress Street, then turn left onto Congress Street. Follow it until you reach the intersection with Baxter Boulevard, where you will turn right. Continue straight to reach Back Cove Trail.
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Bicycle
If you're up for a bike ride, you can rent a bike from one of the local shops in Saco. Start your journey on the Eastern Trail, which you can access from Saco's downtown area. Follow the Eastern Trail north until you reach the Portland area. Once you get closer to Portland, follow the signs towards Back Cove Trail. This route should take about 30-40 minutes depending on your speed.
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Walking
If you prefer to walk, start from the Saco River and head towards the Saco Train Station. Once at the station, follow the sidewalk that leads to Main Street. Turn right on Main Street and walk north toward the Saco Bus Terminal. From there, you can catch a bus to Portland. Alternatively, if you want to walk the distance, proceed along Main Street, which will eventually lead you to the waterfront in Portland. It’s a long walk, approximately 6 miles, so be prepared for a hike!
Discover more about Back Cove Trail
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eastern Cemetery
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Wicked Walking Tours
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The Abyssinian Meetinghouse
1.3 km
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City of Portland, Maine
1.3 km
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Greater Portland Landmarks
1.4 km
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Portland Masonic Temple
1.4 km
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Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown Old Port
1.4 km
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Rackleff Building
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Portland by the Foot
1.5 km
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Old Port Historic Tours
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Our Lady of Victories Monument
1.5 km
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The Maine Lobsterman
1.6 km
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Eastern Promenade Trail
1.6 km
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Lancaster Block (Portland, Maine)
1.6 km
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Visit Portland, Maine Information Center
1.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Major Charles Loring Memorial Park
0.3 km
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Fort Sumner Park
0.8 km
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Peppermint Park
1.1 km
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Portland Observatory
1.1 km
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Maine Jewish Museum
1.1 km
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Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
1.1 km
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Lincoln Park
1.3 km
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Edward Payson Park
1.3 km
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Shipyard Brewing Company
1.4 km
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Portland Paddle
1.4 km
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Maine Museum of Photographic Arts
1.4 km
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First Parish in Portland, Unitarian Universalist
1.4 km
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Friends of Fort Gorges
1.4 km
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Post Office Park
1.5 km
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East End Beach
1.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Terlingua
0.9 km
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Duckfat Frites Shack
0.9 km
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Red Sea Restaurant
1.0 km
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The Front Room
1.1 km
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UNION Restaurant
1.4 km
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The East Ender
1.4 km
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Tomaso's Canteen
1.4 km
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Ribollita
1.4 km
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Duckfat
1.4 km
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The Corner Room Italian Kitchen & Bar
1.4 km
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The Honey Paw
1.4 km
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Eventide Oyster Co.
1.4 km
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The Highroller Lobster Co.
1.5 km
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Crispy Gai
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Slab Sicilian Street Food
1.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
akakpo
0.6 km
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The Post Supply
0.8 km
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Ferdinand
1.1 km
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Heritage Seaweed
1.4 km
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Jill McGowan, Inc. Flagship Store + Boutique, Portland Maine
1.4 km
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Portland Trading Co
1.5 km
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Leapin' Lizards
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Salt Cellar
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Urban Outfitters
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Fitz & Bennett Home
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Pinecone+Chickadee
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Zane
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Lisa-Marie's Made in Maine
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Bliss Boutiques
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a case of you
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Night Mares
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Anoche
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Miss Portland Diner
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Munjoy Hill Tavern
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Cocktail Mary
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The End of Portland Maine
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The Portland Hunt & Alpine Club
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Maps
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The North Point
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The Armory Lounge
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Lincolns
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Arcadia - Portland, Me
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Gritty McDuff's Brew Pub
1.7 km
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Andy's Old Port Pub
1.7 km
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Portland Mash TUN
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