About
Length (round trip)2.7 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyEasy
Typical time1 hr 30 min
TrailheadParkman Mountain parking, Route 198
SurfaceOpen granite ledge with cairns
Best seasonLate spring through October; peak foliage mid-October. Many trails are icy and unmaintained in winter.
DogsLeashed / limited stretches
AccessibilityBald Peak and Parkman Mountain Loop is not accessible. The trails have uneven footing and short, steep sections requiring some scrambling throughout. There are no accessible restrooms at the trailhead.
What you'll see ⛰️ Summit🌄 Big views

A short, challenging hike to the top of two mountains each over 900 feet. The hike crosses carriage roads before summiting for ocean views of the Somes Sound and Northeast Harbor. Start with Bald Peak Trail, as it offers steeper terrain than its western Parkman Mountain Trail counterpart. Choose dry weather to avoid hazards on slippery, exposed granite sections. This hike is also a good sunset option, but carry appropriate gear and headlamps when hiking at dusk and dark. Distance: 2.7 miles round trip Terrain: Forested path, steep granite and challenging rocky footing throughout with one iron rung. Hike Description The hike starts at Sargent Mountain Trailhead and descends slightly through the forest on the Hadlock Brook Trail. Pass the Parkman Mountain Trail junction. After .2 miles, come to the junction for the Bald Peak Trail and turn left. The Bald Peak Trail becomes more rugged as it follows a stream and begins to ascend Bald Peak. There are two carriage road crossings. After crossing the second carriage road, the hike becomes significantly steeper and exposed. Blue blazes and stone Bates cairns on the open granite face mark the trail. This section is not recommended in wet weather. At the top of Bald Peak, enjoy views of Upper Hadlock Pond and the outlying islands. Continue down the north side of the mountain before ascending to the junction with Parkman Mountain Trail. Take a right for .1 mi to the summit. Retrace the trail southward, pass the junction again, and continue the descent into the forest. There are two steep ledges and one iron rung. These sections are challenging when wet. The trail crosses the carriage road three times before ending at the junction where the hike started. A right turn leads back the ME Route 198 and the parking lot.

Tips
Two summits for very little effort, and one of the best short mountain loops on the island. The route crosses the carriage roads twice - follow the cairns carefully.
Location

Parkman Mountain parking, Route 198

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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