Hope embraces the spirit of MidCoast Maine near the Coastal Mountains
Midcoast Maine is a region known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation, and the small town of Hope is no exception. “It has some beautiful mountain elevations, backcountry winding roads and a nice mix of agriculture. It’s just so pretty,” says Melanie Trott, a broker and owner at MidcoastHome Real Estate Co. who lives in the region. Nestled in the foothills of the Coastal Mountains, Hope’s rolling hills border recreational lakes, ponds and nature preserves. “It has beautiful walking trails up to the mountains and all around,” Trott says. With scenic surroundings and outdoor access, Hope offers a peaceful setting less than 10 miles from Penobscot Bay.
Year-round recreation includes Alford Lake and the Camden Snow Bowl
Alford Lake is a popular destination for outdoor recreation. A public boat launch on its western shore provides access for boaters, paddlers and anglers looking to catch smallmouth bass and landlocked salmon. Next to the launch is the Knox County Fish & Game Association, a private club offering members a shooting range, archery ground and sandy beach. Summer is the lake’s busiest season, as girls stay at the century-old Alford Lake Camp. Hope is also home to Hobbs and Fish Ponds, which offer quieter waters to explore and border the 1,328-acre Megunticook Lake. Those looking to access the coast can head roughly 7 miles east to beaches along Penobscot Bay.
On the town’s southeastern edge, the Thorndike Brook Trailhead connects to Ragged Mountain Preserve’s 30-plus miles of trails, leading through forests to a scenic summit. Winter snowfall averages just over three feet, drawing skiers and snowshoers to trails that link with the Camden Snow Bowl, a ski area with ocean views. Smaller trail networks wind through Bald and Hatchet Mountain Preserves. In the town’s village center, True Park features a playground, ballfield, soccer pitch and basketball court.
A mix of housing styles on spacious lots in peaceful surroundings
Homes here are set back from winding roads on private, wooded lots. The median lot size is over an acre, and many properties are true country retreats with enough room for a hobby farm. Sprawling farmhouses, Cape Cods and ranch-style homes are common, along with some newer builds and custom-designed residences scattered throughout town. Waterfront cottages and cabins often feature private docks, but rarely hit the market. “It can be very hard to find properties for sale," Trott says. Prices typically range from $350,000 for smaller builds to $760,000 for larger properties, although custom homes with substantial acreage can exceed $880,000. Open land is available for those looking to build, with parcels selling for $75,000 to $420,000. Rural landscapes mean that well water and septic systems are the norm.
High ratings for Hope Elementary and Camden Hills Regional High
The town is home to Hope Elementary School, which serves prekindergarten through eighth grade and earns an A from Niche, which also ranks it as the best public elementary school in Knox County. Older students can attend the A-minus-rated Camden Hills Regional High School, part of the highly regarded Five Town Community School District. The high school is known for its robust international exchange program, which allows students to immerse themselves in new cultures as they attend partner schools abroad.
Essentials at the historic Hope General Store, with Camden nearby
Driving around town, it’s not uncommon to see bumper stickers that read “Hope is Hip,” a sentiment that is reflected in the offerings found in Hope’s commercial sector. At the intersection of state Routes 105 and 235 stands the Hope General Store, a beloved mainstay since 1832. Anchoring the town’s village center, it’s woven into daily life for Hope residents who visit the quaint country shop for groceries, household staples, Maine-made treats and quick bites. Residents also pick up their mail at the Hope General Store since the town doesn’t have street delivery. Hope Community Bible Church and Hope Library round out the village center.
The town’s local flavors come through in its farm-fresh offerings, including pick-your-own apples at Hope Orchards, fresh berries at Brodis Blueberries and homegrown Christmas trees from Balsam Hill Farm. For most shopping and dining, residents head out of town. Camden is about 7 miles away for trips to Hannaford, Renys Department Store and waterfront restaurants.
Hope Day is a summer favorite that supports a local nonprofit
Hope Day began in 2024 as a community fundraiser for Homeworthy, a nonprofit supporting those experiencing homelessness across the Midcoast region. Held in July, the event brings locals together for a full day of festivities in the village center. It starts with a 5K race and fun run and continues into the evening with an outdoor market, food truck and beer garden, a parade, and live music.
Residents drive to reach U.S. Route 1, coastal towns and bigger cities
This car-dependent area lacks sidewalks and public transportation. State Route 105 connects residents to U.S. Route 1, a scenic highway that carries traffic north-south through the Midcoast and beyond. Hope is roughly 38 miles east of Augusta and 90 miles northeast of Portland, home to the Portland International Jetport. Augusta State Airport is closer to home, though it only offers limited service to Boston via Cape Air. Healthcare is available 12 miles away at MaineHealth Pen Bay Hospital.
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Written By
Sally Stimpson
