trail
Borestone Mountain
the town of Rockwood.
Rising dramatically 800 feet straight out of Moosehead Lake, Mount Kineo offers three distinct routes to the summit. The Indian Trail is the shortest and steepest, while the Bridle Trail provides a more gradual climb. For a longer, quieter approach, the North Trail loops around the far side of the peninsula.
At the summit, a steel fire tower invites you to climb even higher. Those who make the ascent are rewarded with sweeping views across Maine’ s largest lake and the surrounding wilderness.
Fall is an especially magical time to visit, when the landscape transforms into a vibrant patchwork of gold, orange, and crimson.
BORESTONE MOUNTAIN MONSON AREA Located within the Borestone Mountain Audubon Sanctuary, this hike combines pristine natural beauty with a rewarding challenge. The sanctuary protects a rare old-growth forest, three quiet ponds, and the striking granite peaks of Borestone Mountain.
The trail begins on a wide access road with a steady, manageable incline. About halfway up, you’ ll reach a small visitor center near Sunrise Pond— a perfect spot to pause and take in the surroundings.
From here, the hike becomes more demanding. The final ascent features more than 130 stone steps, along with sections of exposed rock where iron rungs and handholds assist your climb. It’ s a short but rugged push to the top.
At the summit, you’ ll discover there are actually two peaks. Continue to the second— East Peak— for the best reward: sweeping 360-degree views of the famed 100-Mile Wilderness, surrounding lakes and mountains, and even into Quebec on a clear day.
PLANNING ON HIKING IN BAXTER STATE PARK? Advanced parking reservations are required even for day use.
KATAHDIN MILLINOCKET REGION Standing at 5,269 feet, Katahdin is the tallest mountain in Maine and the crown jewel of Baxter State Park. For many, reaching its summit is a bucketlist experience. For thru-hikers on the
6 | THE MAINE HIGHLANDS. COM