Hiking North Brother, Maine - panoramic view
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Hiking in North Brother, Maine: trails, map and practical info

Maine Highlands • Maine

4.0 Appreciated by 48 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2015 • Updated 01/04/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
15 km
Elevation
1,265 m
Duration
6h15
Max altitude
1,220 m

Located in Baxter State Park within Maine's wilderness, this challenging 15.4 km trek ascends one of "The Brothers" peaks with 4 to 6 hours of rugged terrain just miles from the Appalachian Trail's northern terminus at Mount Katahdin.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore North Brother, Maine? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

2 community photos

Trail description

North Brother is a mountain located in Baxter State Park, Piscataquis County, Maine. North Brother is flanked to the northeast by Fort Mountain, and to the southwest by South Brother; collectively the two are called "The Brothers." The south and east sides of North Brother drains into a swampy area called "The Klondike", then into Wassataquoik Stream, the East Branch of the Penobscot River, and into Penobscot Bay. The north and west sides of North Brother drain into Little Nesowadnehunk Stream, Nesowadnehunk Stream, and the West Branch of the Penobscot River. The Appalachian Trail, a 2,170 mi (3,490 km) National Scenic Trail from Georgia to Maine, reaches its northern terminus, on the summit of Mount Katahdin, 5 mi (8.0 km) to the southeast of The Brothers.

The North Brother is a small island in Maine that is known for its natural beauty and seclusion. The island is about 2 miles long and 1 mile wide, and it is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bears, and eagles. The island is also popular for fishing, and it offers some of the best salmon and trout fishing in the area. Visitors can reach the island by boat or by plane, and there are several cabins and campsites available for rent.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Not available
GPS coordinates
45.957289, -68.985417
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The best way to get to the start of the trails at the north brother, maine is to drive there.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
  • Hiking shoes Essential
  • Layered clothing Essential
  • Rain jacket Essential
  • Trekking poles
  • Headlamp
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
45.957289, -68.985417
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.0
24 Reviews
R8
Review 8
Apr 28, 2024
Enjoy the nature! The North Brother trail perfectly captures Maine's wild beauty with its 15.4km journey through pristine Maine Highlands wilderness. The challenging 1265m elevation gain over 4-6 hours of moderate hiking immerses you completely in untouched forest and mountain landscapes, offering an authentic escape into nature's tranquility.
R7
Review 7
Apr 15, 2024
Very good place. The North Brother trail in Maine Highlands stands out as an excellent hiking destination with its demanding 15.4km distance and substantial 1265m elevation gain. This moderate difficulty hike typically takes 4-6 hours and offers hikers spectacular wilderness scenery and a genuine mountain climbing experience in Maine's beautiful backcountry.
R6
Review 6
Apr 2, 2024
Very good place. I recommend this place. The North Brother trail offers excellent hiking in Maine Highlands with its challenging 15.4km route and significant 1265m elevation gain. While the moderate difficulty rating suggests accessibility, plan for 4-6 hours of steady climbing through beautiful wilderness terrain that rewards hikers with outstanding mountain views.
R5
Review 5
Mar 20, 2024
Just beastly =) This North Brother trail is seriously challenging with its massive 1265m elevation gain over 15.4km of rugged Maine Highlands terrain. The moderate rating doesn't tell the full story - this hike will push your limits over 4-6 hours, but the incredible summit views and sense of achievement make it an epic outdoor adventure.
R4
Review 4
Mar 5, 2024
It's a real pleasure to go there. The North Brother trail in Maine Highlands provides an exceptional hiking experience with its well-marked 15.4km route and rewarding 1265m elevation gain. Despite being rated moderate difficulty, the trail offers spectacular mountain vistas and pristine wilderness that make the 4-6 hour journey pure joy for outdoor enthusiasts.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
1265.00 M
1220.00 M
6h15
No
No
The North Brother trail is rated as moderate difficulty. This rating indicates that hikers should have some experience and be prepared for challenging terrain and significant elevation gain.
The North Brother trail is 15.4 km long and typically takes 4 to 6 hours to complete. The duration can vary depending on your fitness level, weather conditions, and time spent enjoying the views.
The North Brother trail has an elevation gain of 1265 m, making it a substantial climb. This significant elevation change contributes to the moderate difficulty rating of the trail.
No, dogs are not allowed on the North Brother trail. Be sure to make alternative arrangements for your pets when planning your hike.
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Update : June 2026