Grafton Notch State Park: Top 12 Hiking Trails, Scenic Wonders, and Winter Adventures
Grafton Notch State Park, nestled in Maine's stunning Mahoosuc Range, is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. This expansive park offers a blend of challenging hikes, breathtaking views, and serene spots for nature lovers. Whether you're scaling one of Maine's highest peaks or exploring the park's deep gorges and waterfalls, Grafton Notch promises a memorable adventure.
Top 12 Hiking Trails in Grafton Notch State Park
Table Rock Trail Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2.1 miles (Estimated 1h 32m)
Description: A must-do for hikers, this loop provides stunning views of Old Speck, The Eyebrow, and Grafton Notch. The trail is steep and challenging, but the panoramic vistas make it worth every step.
Old Speck Mountain Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 7.4 miles (Estimated 5h 9m)
Description: As Maine’s fourth-highest mountain, Old Speck offers some of the best views in the state. The trail is steep and can be icy in winter, so be prepared.
Old Speck Mountain via Appalachian Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 6.5 miles (Estimated 4h 46m)
Description: This trail offers a more direct route to the summit, with a series of switchbacks and a fire tower at the top.
Eyebrow Loop Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 2.7 miles (Estimated 1h 55m)
Description: This loop trail is not for the faint of heart, featuring steep sections with steel cables. The Appalachian Trail provides a gentler descent.
Baldpate Mountain via Appalachian Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 8.3 miles (Estimated 5h 31m)
Description: This hike takes you over the summit of West Peak and the wide-open summit of Baldpate Mountain, offering stunning fall foliage views.
Screw Auger Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 0.2 miles (Estimated 4m)
Description: A short walk to a beautiful 23-foot waterfall with excellent swimming holes and picnic spots.
West Baldpate Peak via Appalachian Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 6.8 miles (Estimated 4h 28m)
Description: This well-maintained trail offers a beautiful view of East Baldpate from West Baldpate.
Moose Cave
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 0.3 miles (Estimated 8m)
Description: This short trail leads to a deep gorge where a brook disappears into a granite cave, a remnant of the area's glacial history.
Mahoosuc Notch Trail
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 17.1 miles (Estimated 11h 50m)
Description: Considered the most challenging mile on the entire Appalachian Trail, this hike is for the truly adventurous.
Appalachian Trail: Route 26 to Andover Road
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 15.1 miles (Estimated 8h 6m)
Description: This stretch of the Appalachian Trail includes the summit of Baldpate Mountain and offers 360-degree views.
Mother Walker Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 0.2 miles (Estimated 4m)
Description: A short, scenic trail overlooking the impressive 43-foot deep gorge of Mother Walker Falls.
Appalachian Trail: Route 26 to Carlo Col Shelter
Difficulty: Hard
Length: 12.3 miles (Estimated 8h 54m)
Description: A rugged trail that passes Speck Pond and Mount Carlo, offering a challenging but rewarding hike.
Winter Activities and ITS 82 Snowmobile Route
In the colder months, Grafton Notch is a hub for winter sports enthusiasts. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers can explore the snow-covered trails, while snowmobilers can traverse the popular ITS 82 route. This trail stretches from Andover, Maine, to New Hampshire's Trail 18, offering a scenic and thrilling ride through the heart of the Mahoosuc Range.
Where to Eat and Drink
After a day on the trails, head to nearby Bethel, Maine, for a meal. Local favorites include:
Sunday River Brewing Company: Enjoy craft beers and hearty pub fare.
The Sudbury Inn: Offering a warm and inviting atmosphere with locally sourced dishes.
Rooster's Roadhouse: Known for its comforting and delicious meals in a rustic setting.
Contact Information
For more information on Grafton Notch State Park and the ITS 82 snowmobile route, check out the following resources:
Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands: Maine.gov
Maine Snowmobile Association: mesnow.com
Grafton Notch State Park Office: Contact Here
Conclusion
Grafton Notch State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the beauty and challenge of Maine’s wilderness. From the highest peaks to serene waterfalls and winter adventures, this park offers something for everyone. Plan your trip today and experience the best of Maine’s great outdoors.
Explore the scenic beauty of the best mountain adventures in Maine, where dramatic peaks, crisp air, and lush forests create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures.
What to Do in Moosehead Lake
For those seeking more activities and detailed guides, Moose River Lookout offers a wealth of information about the Moosehead Lake area. From seasonal events and community news to outdoor adventure guides and dining recommendations, Moose River Lookout is your new resource for exploring the region. Find comprehensive information on hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and other local attractions.
Check out Moose River Lookout at Moosehead News for more details.
Stay in the Heart of Nature
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Contact Information
For additional details or inquiries, reach out to:
Moose River Lookout:
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Phone: 800-544-0300
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