Looking for a unique beach day? This coastal hike takes you up a mountain, to an oceanside hidden gem.

Morse Mountain in Phippsburg, Maine is an easy hike that ends at a beautiful, secluded beach. The hike takes you through the 600-acre Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area. The protected land is managed by Bates College for research and educational purposes. The 3.8-mile round trip hike is very easy, primarily on a partially paved private road. The trail/road winds through saltwater marshes, up Morse Mountain, down to Seawall Beach.

Paul Wolfe, Townsquare Media
Paul Wolfe, Townsquare Media
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How To Get There:

  • Take Route 209 through Phippsburg.
  • At the intersection of Route 209 and 216, continue straight on 216. The intersection is marked by a sign for Popham Beach. Route 209 takes a sharp left, just continue straight to get to Morse Mountain.
  • After the intersection, Morse Mountain Rd is just 0.8 miles down the road on the left.
Trail
Paul Wolfe, Townsquare Media
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The Hike:

  • The hike to Seawall Beach is about 2 miles.
  • The trail is a private roadway for the few residents of the land. Visitors must park in the parking area and continue from the gate by foot.
  • The summit of Morse Mountain is about a mile into the hike. The summit overlook is worth the extra 0.1 mile hike. From the overlook, you can take in the vast views of salt marshes and distant beach.
  • Continue to follow the road/trail to Seawall Beach. Signs are in place to guide hikers to the beach. Maps are also available at the gate.
Salt Marsh
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Additional Info:

  • There's no fee to enjoy the trail system and beach.
  • Dogs are not permitted.
  • There are no bathroom facilities.
  • Camping and fires are not permitted.
  • Parking is only permitted in the designated parking area.
Morse Mountain Summit
Paul Wolfe, Townsquare Media
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Wolfe In The Wild Pro Tips:

  • About a mile into the hike you'll reach the summit of Morse Mountain. It's well worth the additional 0.1-mile hike to the overlook. Stay to the right on Summit Cir. to the bald rocky vantage point. Private homes are to the left side of the road. Please respect the owners' privacy and property.
  • Bug spray. Bring it. You're welcome.
  • Seawall Beach is protected land. While it's a beautiful spot to enjoy the sand and ocean, it's not the place for a typical day at the beach. Plastic beach balls, Frisbees, kites, bicycles, beach umbrellas, cabanas, and radios are prohibited.
  • The end of Seawall Beach is marked by a red pole. Beyond the designated visitor area is a protected dune habitat.
  • Morse Mountain is dotted with private residences. Respect their privacy and stay on the trail/road. Also, be aware of vehicle traffic on the road.
  • The popularity of Morse Mountain and Seawall Beach has exploded over the years. During the summer months, the parking area is often full by 10 a.m. Once the parking lot is full, additional vehicles will be turned away. There is no additional parking.

Keep this trail system and beach beautiful and carry out ALL trash and waste.

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