Table Rock Trail in Grafton Notch State Park – Newry, Maine

If you’re looking for a hike that mixes jaw-dropping views with a little sweat and adventure, the Table Rock Trail is a solid pick. It’s a moderate 2.3-mile loop with some steep sections and scrambles, enough to feel accomplished, but not so much you’ll question all your life choices.

Parking is across the street from the trailhead, with a small fee: $3 for Maine residents, $4 for non-residents. Worth it for the views (and hey, cheaper than a latte).

The trail itself is well-marked and easy to follow. I recommend going counter-clockwise. The beginning is flat, or as flat as a mountain ever lets you think it is.  Then you start going up, or as we call it a SUB: Straight Up Beast. Thankfully, it’s short-lived, about a half mile SUB. You’ll probably be huffing and puffing (I definitely was), but the built-in stairs and rungs make the climb feel like a fun adventure.

Partway up, you pass through a rock “hallway.” Not quite a cave, but still pretty cool vibes. Once you’re through you’re almost there. When the trail levels out, you’ve made it to the top, just under a mile from the start.

The views? Absolutely stunning. You’ll get an epic look at the Mahoosuc Range, and if you squint off in the distance, the White Mountains are waiting to wave back.

We met a couple of hikers with a dog, and I’d say this trail is definitely dog-friendly, as long as your pup is used to climbing and listens to commands. Just be cautious at the top: there’s a very steep drop-off, so if you’ve got kids or a free-spirited dog, keep a close eye out.

The descent is much kinder than the climb. It’s gradual, knee-friendly, and even offered a little surprise: we stumbled across some trail magic. At first, we thought someone had left garbage (cue the judgmental side-eye), but then we realized the soda cans tucked into the cold river were full and waiting for thru-hikers. Instant redemption, and bonus respect.

If you’d prefer to skip the steep climb altogether, you can actually hike up the gentler side to reach Table Rock. But honestly, conquering the SUB makes the victory (and the snacks at the top) taste even better.

Ratings:

  • 🏞️ Views: 10/10

  • ⛰️ Difficulty: 6/10

  • 🐶 Dog-friendly (for adventurous pups)

  • 👧 Kid-friendly (for older kids who can handle scrambles)

  • 🚻 Bathrooms: Yes, at the trailhead (a luxury worth mentioning!)

PS if you see a sign that says: Pies, Pies, Pies. Stop. They sell the most delicious pies and sweet treats!