Captain Samuel Holden was the first to call this remote region home in 1820. He looked out over the quiet waters of Wood Pond at an unnamed mountain until the day he took his young daughter’s hand, looked into her eyes, and said, “That’s your mountain now. Sally Mountain is located in Jackman, Maine. A walk to the top and back is 4.8 miles and the climb is listed as a moderate challenge.
Last Saturday (8/11/2007), two of my sons (Mark and Brian) and I climbed to Mount Sally’s summit. One of the first challenges was getting accurate directions to the trail head. It’s shown on a local map and the couple at the lodge we stayed at gave us directions. But we drove up the entrance road without being able to relate it to the map or the description. But asking a local passing by solved the problem.
We drove to another entry road where we parked outside a gate. The “parking area” would hold three cars at best. Our car was the second to park there, but we didn’t see another person until we returned from the hike. We walked through the gate down a grown over dirt road and a field taking us to railroad tracks. We followed the tracks for about two miles. We crossed a bridge and then started looking for the trail on the right. My son Brian spotted the trail - a directional sign in the weeds confirmed it. We had arrived at the trail head.
Along the entry way to the trail there was a short wooden boardwalk to keep us out of the mud. This was evidence that the trail was maintained. From that point on it was purely a natural environment. In August everything is in full bloom making the trail itself very scenic, but it blocks the lower views. We would have to wait for the summit for that.
Due to the narrowness of the trail, we walked quickly through along the narrow trail in single file. The first stretch was easy and it took us a while to realize that we were slowly going uphill. I would say maybe a third of the hike was like that. Then it became very clear that we were climbing and walking over rocks. No big surprise, after all we were going up a mountain.
It was in the last section that we felt we should question the “moderate challenge” classification of Sally Mountain. Every step brought quickly brought us higher and higher. Two of the three of us could have been in better shape for this climb and I was one of the two. As a result we stopped to rest more frequently and drank more water, but we kept going.
We continued to climb and take breaks. The climb grew steeper and a bit later we were standing at the summit looking out at the great views. We spent some time walking around the mountain top taking pictures. The map showed that the trail continued down the other side and eventually up another mountain. Not knowing exactly where we would end up, we went down the same way we came up.
The Descent was easy and no rest stops were taken. Before long we were leaving the railroad tracks and heading towards the car. Except for a couple of exhaustion attacks, we thoroughly enjoyed the hike - the views, the exercise, the good company.
It was about 11am when we left this area. From there we drove to Moxie Falls for the next walk and the subject of the next post.
/*
Captain Samuel Holden was the first to call this remote region home in 1820. He looked out over the quiet waters of Wood Pond at an unnamed mountain until the day he took his young daughter’s hand, looked into her eyes, and said, “That’s your mountain now. Sally Mountain is located in Jackman, Maine. A walk to the top and back is 4.8 miles and the climb is listed as a moderate challenge.
Last Saturday (8/11/2007), two of my sons (Mark and Brian) and I climbed to Mount Sally’s summit. One of the first challenges was getting accurate directions to the trail head. It’s shown on a local map and the couple at the lodge we stayed at gave us directions. But we drove up the entrance road without being able to relate it to the map or the description. But asking a local passing by solved the problem.
We drove to another entry road where we parked outside a gate. The “parking area” would hold three cars at best. Our car was the second to park there, but we didn’t see another person until we returned from the hike. We walked through the gate down a grown over dirt road and a field taking us to railroad tracks. We followed the tracks for about two miles. We crossed a bridge and then started looking for the trail on the right. My son Brian spotted the trail - a directional sign in the weeds confirmed it. We had arrived at the trail head.
Along the entry way to the trail there was a short wooden boardwalk to keep us out of the mud. This was evidence that the trail was maintained. From that point on it was purely a natural environment. In August everything is in full bloom making the trail itself very scenic, but it blocks the lower views. We would have to wait for the summit for that.
Due to the narrowness of the trail, we walked quickly through along the narrow trail in single file. The first stretch was easy and it took us a while to realize that we were slowly going uphill. I would say maybe a third of the hike was like that. Then it became very clear that we were climbing and walking over rocks. No big surprise, after all we were going up a mountain.
It was in the last section that we felt we should question the “moderate challenge” classification of Sally Mountain. Every step brought quickly brought us higher and higher. Two of the three of us could have been in better shape for this climb and I was one of the two. As a result we stopped to rest more frequently and drank more water, but we kept going.
We continued to climb and take breaks. The climb grew steeper and a bit later we were standing at the summit looking out at the great views. We spent some time walking around the mountain top taking pictures. The map showed that the trail continued down the other side and eventually up another mountain. Not knowing exactly where we would end up, we went down the same way we came up.
The Descent was easy and no rest stops were taken. Before long we were leaving the railroad tracks and heading towards the car. Except for a couple of exhaustion attacks, we thoroughly enjoyed the hike - the views, the exercise, the good company.
It was about 11am when we left this area. From there we drove to Moxie Falls for the next walk and the subject of the next post.
Filed under: Maine on August 15th, 2007 | No Comments »
*/
Planning the Trip
This could be one of the best walks ever! But, you ask, “Where is Jackman?” It’s near Canada. We went through it once before on the way back from Quebec City. Other than knowing we passed through there once, I know very little about it. However, this weekend tow of my son’s and I will be going there Friday night. With any luck, we ‘ll be on the road at noon and get there before dark. The plan is to walk, hike, and swim all day Saturday. Then, on Sunday we’re booked on a white water rafting trip. Why am I writing about this in advance? I’m excited about it!
My research shows that there are many good walking and hiking areas. Those will be listed, but first a bit about Jackman compliments of www.kvcog.org/Towns/jackman.htm:
Jackman, the Switzerland of Maine, is located just 16 miles south of the Canadian border, and 73 miles north of Skowhegan on U.S. Route 201 in the Moose River Valley. The Town is 41 square miles and is located primarily along U.S. Route 201 and State Route 6 & 15. The Town is a commercial center for a large extent of unincorporated area surrounding it, and for travelers on Route 201. It is also a seasonal resort area. In the summer Attean Pond, Big Wood Pond, and Long Pond as well as the Moose River provides water recreation such as fishing, canoing,kayaking, and swimming, Jackman also is in close proximity to a Class IV rafting river with one rafting company being based in the Moose River Valley. Mountain biking and hiking transcends the seasons with both being available in the spring as new growth blooms, the summer with the unrivaled natural beauty of the area on display, and in the autumn when nature is in her glorious colorful finery. (It should be noted that Jackman’s foliage season is from mid to late September into October, about two weeks earlier than southern Maine.) Autumn also provides for excellent opportunities for the sportsman with various hunting seasons available. In the winter Jackman offers cross-county skiing as well as an extensive regional snowmobile trail system that links to other areas in Maine as well as to trails in Quebec. Jackman’s close proximity to Quebec provides for easy day trips to Saint George and Quebec City which can provides unique cultural experiences.
Jackman is surrounded by the most majestic mountains, most of which have a designated trails to hike and climb. The trails take you through incredible forests, over varying terrain and up to amazing scenic vistas. There are many trails that offer moderate to strenuous workouts and are each clearly marked. For specific directions, please ask your host or contact the JMRRCofC. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy while you soak in the views at the summit. Don’t forget to take a camera! And remember to take along the appropriate gear for navigation and weather changes and of course, plenty of water.
Now to plan the trip. Here the choices according to www.jackmanmaine.org/maine-hiking.php:
Hiking Trails in the Jackman and Forks area
(Trail information by Christopher Keene “North Woods Walks”)
Sally Mountain
4.8 miles
Moderate challenge
Captain Samuel Holden, the first to call this remote region home in 1820, looked out over the quiet waters of Wood Pond at an unnamed mountain. One day, he took his young daughter’s hand, looked into her eyes and said, “That’s your mountain now. That’s Sally Mountain” Blueberries flourish up here during late July to early September so you’d better pack an appetite.
Boundary Bald Mountain
2.6 miles
Strenuous challenge
The hiking trail was built in 1911 and used to reach the wooden fire tower. Now a radio repeater station sits in its place on the open summit. (3,640feet)
Coburn Mountain
3,718 feet
Strenuous challenge
Tallest of all mountains between the Bigilow range to the South and the peaks of Baxter State Park; It is nicknamed Enchanted Mountain. Your vehicle needs to have good clearance to get to the trail. The 24 foot steel fire tower on Coburn was built in 1914 but was crushed in 1938 by ice. Abandoned until 1966, rebuilt, and in 1968, high winds blew off the cap. In 1999 it was repaired and the platform is now sturdy enough to stand on while you take in the views.
Cold Stream Falls
A short drive from the Coburn trailhead. It is not the largest, nor the most majestic, but it is the most remote. A cool dip in the pool after the hike may be what you need.
Burnt Jacket Mountain
1.5 miles
Moderate challenge
This mountain is visible from US 201 when approaching Jackman, a clumsily shaped ridge is located just six miles south east of the Canadian Border. The hiking trail leads to open summits from which there are dramatic views of the Moose River Valley
Moxie Falls
0.6miles
Very Easy
One of the highest set of falls in New England: the main drop is over 80 feet, which plummets into a deep slate gorge.
So where are we going. Well, we’re pretty sure we’ll combine Sally Mountain and Moxie Falls to get the best mix of exercise and scenery. Watch for the photos next week! After Sally Mountain and Moxie Falls? Well, we’ll just keep walking.
/*
Planning the Trip
This could be one of the best walks ever! But, you ask, “Where is Jackman?” It’s near Canada. We went through it once before on the way back from Quebec City. Other than knowing we passed through there once, I know very little about it. However, this weekend tow of my son’s and I will be going there Friday night. With any luck, we ‘ll be on the road at noon and get there before dark. The plan is to walk, hike, and swim all day Saturday. Then, on Sunday we’re booked on a white water rafting trip. Why am I writing about this in advance? I’m excited about it!
My research shows that there are many good walking and hiking areas. Those will be listed, but first a bit about Jackman compliments of www.kvcog.org/Towns/jackman.htm:
Jackman, the Switzerland of Maine, is located just 16 miles south of the Canadian border, and 73 miles north of Skowhegan on U.S. Route 201 in the Moose River Valley. The Town is 41 square miles and is located primarily along U.S. Route 201 and State Route 6 & 15. The Town is a commercial center for a large extent of unincorporated area surrounding it, and for travelers on Route 201. It is also a seasonal resort area. In the summer Attean Pond, Big Wood Pond, and Long Pond as well as the Moose River provides water recreation such as fishing, canoing,kayaking, and swimming, Jackman also is in close proximity to a Class IV rafting river with one rafting company being based in the Moose River Valley. Mountain biking and hiking transcends the seasons with both being available in the spring as new growth blooms, the summer with the unrivaled natural beauty of the area on display, and in the autumn when nature is in her glorious colorful finery. (It should be noted that Jackman’s foliage season is from mid to late September into October, about two weeks earlier than southern Maine.) Autumn also provides for excellent opportunities for the sportsman with various hunting seasons available. In the winter Jackman offers cross-county skiing as well as an extensive regional snowmobile trail system that links to other areas in Maine as well as to trails in Quebec. Jackman’s close proximity to Quebec provides for easy day trips to Saint George and Quebec City which can provides unique cultural experiences.
Jackman is surrounded by the most majestic mountains, most of which have a designated trails to hike and climb. The trails take you through incredible forests, over varying terrain and up to amazing scenic vistas. There are many trails that offer moderate to strenuous workouts and are each clearly marked. For specific directions, please ask your host or contact the JMRRCofC. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy while you soak in the views at the summit. Don’t forget to take a camera! And remember to take along the appropriate gear for navigation and weather changes and of course, plenty of water.
Now to plan the trip. Here the choices according to www.jackmanmaine.org/maine-hiking.php:
Hiking Trails in the Jackman and Forks area
(Trail information by Christopher Keene “North Woods Walks”)
Sally Mountain
4.8 miles
Moderate challenge
Captain Samuel Holden, the first to call this remote region home in 1820, looked out over the quiet waters of Wood Pond at an unnamed mountain. One day, he took his young daughter’s hand, looked into her eyes and said, “That’s your mountain now. That’s Sally Mountain” Blueberries flourish up here during late July to early September so you’d better pack an appetite.
Boundary Bald Mountain
2.6 miles
Strenuous challenge
The hiking trail was built in 1911 and used to reach the wooden fire tower. Now a radio repeater station sits in its place on the open summit. (3,640feet)
Coburn Mountain
3,718 feet
Strenuous challenge
Tallest of all mountains between the Bigilow range to the South and the peaks of Baxter State Park; It is nicknamed Enchanted Mountain. Your vehicle needs to have good clearance to get to the trail. The 24 foot steel fire tower on Coburn was built in 1914 but was crushed in 1938 by ice. Abandoned until 1966, rebuilt, and in 1968, high winds blew off the cap. In 1999 it was repaired and the platform is now sturdy enough to stand on while you take in the views.
Cold Stream Falls
A short drive from the Coburn trailhead. It is not the largest, nor the most majestic, but it is the most remote. A cool dip in the pool after the hike may be what you need.
Burnt Jacket Mountain
1.5 miles
Moderate challenge
This mountain is visible from US 201 when approaching Jackman, a clumsily shaped ridge is located just six miles south east of the Canadian Border. The hiking trail leads to open summits from which there are dramatic views of the Moose River Valley
Moxie Falls
0.6miles
Very Easy
One of the highest set of falls in New England: the main drop is over 80 feet, which plummets into a deep slate gorge.
So where are we going. Well, we’re pretty sure we’ll combine Sally Mountain and Moxie Falls to get the best mix of exercise and scenery. Watch for the photos next week! After Sally Mountain and Moxie Falls? Well, we’ll just keep walking.
Filed under: Maine on August 6th, 2007 | 2 Comments »
*/
Walking in Ogunquit, Maine
On two occasions we’ve spent a weekend in Ogunquit, Maine. I was joined by my wife Karen and our friends Kathy and Stan. Our visits were in the Spring and were spend at Anchorage by the Sea hotel. Anchorage by the Sea is on the Marginal Way walking trail which is clearly The Best Walk in Ogunquit.
From the hotel, a walk on Marginal Way takes you to the harbor of Perkins Cove and to Ogunquit Village. The walk is very easy and very scenic. Virtually anyone can walk this trail and everyone enjoys it. The walk keeps you in view of the rocky coast line and Ogunquit’s white sand beaches. As you leave the trail and enter Perkins Cove, the scenery continues. If you’ve been to the Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island, Perkins Cove is very similar. I recommend the Cliff Walk and Marginal Way - They’re different enough to appreciate walking on each.
Since our visit was in the Spring, there were only a few others on the trail. We were told that that situation changes dramatically in the Summer and the trail gets crowded. During both stays we walked in a loop taking Marginal Way to Perkins Cove then taking Shore Road back to the Hotel. Although the scenery you view is in a natural setting, the walk itself is man made. As a matter of fact, except for a wooden bridge, all of the walk is on pavement. The emphasis is on the scenery ans it’s worth taking the walk for that reason. By the way, if you’re bring your wife or girlfriend on this walk, there will be no complaint’s. There are plenty of shops in the Perkins Cove and Ogunquit Village. (Consider that when you’re deciding how much money to bring.)
So what else do you do in Ogunquit, Maine? Of course that depends on the individual, but there are plenty of good restaurants, shopping areas, and a great karaoke bar on Shore Road. But most likely, you’ll be walking on Marginal Way.
/*
Walking in Ogunquit, Maine
On two occasions we’ve spent a weekend in Ogunquit, Maine. I was joined by my wife Karen and our friends Kathy and Stan. Our visits were in the Spring and were spend at Anchorage by the Sea hotel. Anchorage by the Sea is on the Marginal Way walking trail which is clearly The Best Walk in Ogunquit.
From the hotel, a walk on Marginal Way takes you to the harbor of Perkins Cove and to Ogunquit Village. The walk is very easy and very scenic. Virtually anyone can walk this trail and everyone enjoys it. The walk keeps you in view of the rocky coast line and Ogunquit’s white sand beaches. As you leave the trail and enter Perkins Cove, the scenery continues. If you’ve been to the Cliff Walk in Newport, Rhode Island, Perkins Cove is very similar. I recommend the Cliff Walk and Marginal Way - They’re different enough to appreciate walking on each.
Since our visit was in the Spring, there were only a few others on the trail. We were told that that situation changes dramatically in the Summer and the trail gets crowded. During both stays we walked in a loop taking Marginal Way to Perkins Cove then taking Shore Road back to the Hotel. Although the scenery you view is in a natural setting, the walk itself is man made. As a matter of fact, except for a wooden bridge, all of the walk is on pavement. The emphasis is on the scenery ans it’s worth taking the walk for that reason. By the way, if you’re bring your wife or girlfriend on this walk, there will be no complaint’s. There are plenty of shops in the Perkins Cove and Ogunquit Village. (Consider that when you’re deciding how much money to bring.)
So what else do you do in Ogunquit, Maine? Of course that depends on the individual, but there are plenty of good restaurants, shopping areas, and a great karaoke bar on Shore Road. But most likely, you’ll be walking on Marginal Way.
Filed under: Maine on May 12th, 2007 | No Comments »
*/
From our house in Hudson, MA it takes about forty five minutes to drive to The Best Walk in Central Massachusetts. That walk of course would be one taken at Mount Wachusett in the towns of Princeton and Westminster. Why is this the best place to walk. Well, mountains usually offer a wide variety of trails and great scenery. Mount Wachusett is no exception.
We use this mountain for snow skiing in the winter and for trail walking in the warmer mounts. By the way, Mount Wachusett offers pretty good skiing for a relatively small mountain - probably the best without crossing into New Hampshire, Vermont, or Maine. For walking (or hiking) there is a wide range of trails to choose from. There is a visitors center with a couple of rangers on duty offering advice and trail maps. The toughest trail takes you to the summit in a about an hour, but you do have to climb over a fair amount of rocks. On the other extreme, there are a few trails with only only modest inclines.
From the Summit you can see Mount Monadnock to the North and, on a clear day, Boston to the East.
/*
From our house in Hudson, MA it takes about forty five minutes to drive to The Best Walk in Central Massachusetts. That walk of course would be one taken at Mount Wachusett in the towns of Princeton and Westminster. Why is this the best place to walk. Well, mountains usually offer a wide variety of trails and great scenery. Mount Wachusett is no exception.
We use this mountain for snow skiing in the winter and for trail walking in the warmer mounts. By the way, Mount Wachusett offers pretty good skiing for a relatively small mountain - probably the best without crossing into New Hampshire, Vermont, or Maine. For walking (or hiking) there is a wide range of trails to choose from. There is a visitors center with a couple of rangers on duty offering advice and trail maps. The toughest trail takes you to the summit in a about an hour, but you do have to climb over a fair amount of rocks. On the other extreme, there are a few trails with only only modest inclines.
From the Summit you can see Mount Monadnock to the North and, on a clear day, Boston to the East.
Filed under: Central MA on April 20th, 2007 | No Comments »
*/
