Hike To Maine Blueberries

Maine blueberry season is in full swing and one of the best parts of summer is going out for yourself and gathering a jar (or two) of them. Did you know Maine produces the vast majority of the world’s lowbush blueberries and produces 15% of the world’s blueberry crop overall? Here in Western Maine, there are multiple spots to scoop ’em up, but one of our favorites is Rumford Whitecap. You can’t beat the satisfaction of endless blueberries and amazing views.

Getting There

To head towards the parking lot, go towards Rumford on Route 2 and take a left onto Ellis River Road. Use Alltrails for the best directions on finding the start of the trail.

The Hike

Rumford Whitecap is 5.3 miles roundtrip and takes about 3 hours, give or take, depending on how much time is spent hanging out at the top. There are a few different routes and we’ve heard there are some pretty great views on the “Starr Trail” (yellow blazes), but we ended up taking the quickest way to the summit on the “Iles Trail” (orange blazes).

The trail is very well maintained and after a bit of time in the woods, it opens up to beautiful rock ledges, and the blueberries start to pop up. It is a bit of a steeper climb in the beginning, but once you gain some elevation, it starts to mellow out. The higher you get, the more blueberries you’ll find.

The Views

At the top, enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding areas: the Mahoosuc and White Mountains to the west, Mexico Hills to the east, and Androscoggin River Valley to the south.

Overall, hiking the Rumford Whitecap Trail was a great experience from the beautiful trail, thanks to Mahoosuc Pathways, to the exposed rock and views up top. Add in the blueberry picking and this trail is a must-do in Western Maine.

Other nearby spots for hiking to blueberries:

Overset Mountain: Greenwood
The Roost: Evan’s Notch
White Cap: Sunday River