Cliff Walk, York Harbor Maine
The Cliff Walk at York Harbor Beach, Maine is a great, free way to spend a couple of hours exploring a quintessential rocky Maine coastal scene. Under one mile - round trip, this rustic coastal cliff trail features magnificent ocean views , and a unique character that makes it a 'must experience' when visiting Maine's southern coast. Here are a few things to know before you go....
The trail begins at the York Harbor Beach. After you take in the walk, you might just decide to spend the rest of the day here.
Classic Maine coast views are available from the entire trail.
Now about the trail. If you are familiar with Ogunquit's Marginal Way, the York Cliff walk is a more rustic version that requires good footwear and folks able to handle moderate exercise. There are several signs warning of trail storm damage. The path is rocky in places, uneven and narrow in others. I wouldn't recommend it for small children, but if they are on the trail, they must be closely supervised. Warnings aside, it's the unrefined nature of the trail that makes it a must stop when in the area.
The worst storm damage is seen near the north end of the walk. While it looks messy, it's easy to navigate around and shouldn't slow you down.
Parts of the trail are paved, but this walk is not suitable for wheelchairs. Marginal Way in Ogunquit is wheelchair accessible and also has similarly fantastic views!
The York Cliff Walk has some intimately close stretches...
And some interesting architecture to view.
In places along the way, you might get the feeling that you've walked through a portal to a Greek island in the Aegean Sea...
But it's just classic Maine coastline!
Free, two hour parking is available on York Street, and it is a short walk to the Cliff Walk entrance at York Harbor Beach (see map below). The trail begins on the left as you face the ocean. Parking will sure to be easier on weekdays and make sure you move your car after two hours as parking enforcement is ever-present.
You can also park in front of the serene Hartley Mason Preserve (also on York St.) and access the Cliff Walk directly from the park. Many folks relax on benches and blankets at the preserve, taking in the heavenly ocean vista. Do plan to spend some time here.
The beginning of the Cliff Walk trail is clearly marked at the York Harbor Beach traffic circle with this sign below. There is a clean, public restroom facility within a few short paces.
What else is nearby?
Other free attractions near the York Cliff walk is the Fisherman's walk and The Wiggly Bridge in York, and the Nubble Lighthouse on Cape Neddick. There's lots more to see and do in the area - much of it free - so check the map below and get out and 'make a day of it'!