Immediately upon entering the trail of Big Moose Mountain, one is enveloped in a predominantly hardwood forest, composed of maple, birch, and beech. The first leg of the hike warms visitors up with a gentle grade, rising approximately 950 feet over the course of 1.4 miles. At this juncture a old fire warden cabin still stands as a symbol of Maine's historic dedication to the protection and preservation of its natural resources.
From the cabin the trail rises sharply, gaining 1,150 feet over the course of the remaining 0.7 miles. Hardwoods give way to a softwood forest as the trail traverses a series of stone steps, which conclude at a scenic overlook. This short spur is worth the deviation from the main trail and offers a serene resting place with stunning scenery.
From the overlook the trail continues up a steep, rough, natural terrain of rock and ledge culminating at the fire tower, originally built in 1905. The peak of Big Moose Mountain offers sweeping views of the surrounding area and beyond; from Mount Kineo and Spencer Mountains across the shores of Moosehead Lake to the State's highest peak, Katahdin; while the Bigelow Range dominates the western horizon.
Take care traveling along area logging roads, pulling over and stopping for trucks regardless of which direction they’re headed. Do not block roads. Gravel roads are hard on tires (and suspension systems): travel slowly and carry a spare tire.
Exercise caution on ledge and rock areas, especially in wet conditions.
Natural Heritage Hikes is a project of the Maine Natural Areas Program in partnership with Maine Trail Finder. View the "Big Moose Mountain - Big Moose Trail" guide online here.
Visit Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands online for more information and a detailed trail guide or contact:
Follow ME Route 15 into downtown Greenville. Turn left at the downtown intersection to continue to follow ME Routes 15/6 (Pritham Avenue). Stay on ME Routes 15/6 for approximately 5 miles, and then turn left onto North Road and into the Little Moose Public Reserved Lands. Follow North Road for approximately 2 miles. The parking lot for Big Moose Mountain will be on the right.
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