Maine is not known for its caves, but don’t let that fool you.
There are still quite a number of awesome known caves to explore in the state, many of which are located in areas with awesome scenery surrounding them.
Here are the 9 most scenic caves you can explore in Maine.
Pamola Caves
These lesser-known caves are located within Baxter State Park near Mount Katahdin.
They can be reached via a one-mile hike on Dudley Trail starting near the Chimney Pond Campground, and there are some beautiful locations you can see in the same vicinity, such as Chimney Pond itself.
Towards the end of the hike, you can see the caves up ahead with a few different entrances.
These caves make for a tight squeeze to get into and navigate, so those with claustrophobia may not enjoy them from the inside!
But they still make for a pretty awesome sight from the trail as well.
Anemone Sea Cave, Acadia
Located in Acadia National Park, Anemone Sea Cave is accessible via the Park Loop Road.
This coastal cave is named for the sea anemones found within its tidal pools.
Best visited at low tide for safe access, visitors can explore its aquatic ecosystems.
The cave is part of a dramatic coastal landscape, offering unique photo opportunities and a chance to see marine life up close.
The Ovens Caves (The Devil’s Oven)
Situated near the coastline on Mount Desert Island, The Ovens Caves (also known as the Devil’s Oven) are a series of sea caves formed by wave action.
These caves are accessible by a short hike from a backroad near Bar Harbor Campground, or via kayak after putting in somewhere nearby.
There are several kayak tours that make a trip out of viewing these caves.
The caves themselves consist of hollowed out “ovens” located along the high tide line at the base of the cliffs that overlook the ocean and pebble beach.
These natural formations offer a glimpse into geological processes at work and are best explored during low tide to ensure safety and full access to the caves’ interiors.
Moose Cave
Located in Grafton Notch State Park, Moose Cave is part of a larger system of scenic attractions.
A short hike from the main road leads visitors to this deep, narrow gorge carved by the last Ice Age.
The cave and surrounding area are known for sightings of moose and other wildlife, offering a nature experience that combines geological interest with the possibility of wildlife encounters.
Debsconeag Wilderness Ice Caves
Found within the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area, these ice caves are known for maintaining ice formations year-round.
Access requires a moderate hike through the wilderness, making it a more adventurous destination.
These caves are significant for their ecological rarity and the contrast they offer from the surrounding landscape, providing a cool escape even in summer months.
Deboullie Caves
Part of the Deboullie Public Reserved Land in northern Maine, these caves are accessible through a network of hiking trails.
Known for their rugged terrain and remote location, the caves offer a secluded exploration experience.
Visitors are treated to unique geological formations and a diverse array of plant and animal life, reflective of Maine’s pristine wilderness.
Gorham Mountain Trail Caves
These caves are located along the Gorham Mountain Trail in Acadia National Park.
Accessible by a moderate hike, the caves offer an interesting detour off the main trail, providing a mix of geological exploration and panoramic views of the surrounding park.
The trail to the caves is well-marked, making it a suitable adventure for hikers seeking a blend of natural beauty and exploration.
Allagash Ice Cave
Situated in the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, this cave is renowned for its ice formations that persist even during the warmer months.
Access is challenging, requiring a journey through remote wilderness areas, but offers an unparalleled experience of solitude and natural wonder.
The cave’s interior provides a stark contrast to the outside world, with ice and rock creating a unique environment for exploration.
You can only access this area during certain months due to the endangered bats who live here.
Enchanted Lake Caves
The Enchanted Lake Caves is a distinctive area near the Dead River, boasting the title of Maine’s longest limestone cave system.
This compact network of caves stretches 140 meters (460 feet) underground, navigating through a series of twists and turns.
Despite limestone being a rarity in Maine, these caves have developed in a manner akin to other limestone caverns.
The site consists of two caves: one offers enough room to stand and walk, although it’s relatively short.
The other, longer cave requires visitors to crawl through its narrow, dark, and damp passages, making for an intense exploration experience.