Hatch Preserve at Hawk Mountain

Follow an old tote road, now a non-motorized trail, to high rock cliffs with an unobstructed southward overlook of Crystal Lake and Pleasant Mountain.
Trail Activity
Hiking
Length
0.70 miles, One Way
Difficulty
Moderate
Town
Waterford
Surface
Dirt/Forest Floor, Rock/Ledge
Pets
Permitted
Fees
No

Description

The Hawk Mountain Trail is for foot traffic only and proceeds 0.7 miles south from the trailhead to the town owned Hawk Mountain lookout. Grades are gentle to moderate and the surface is mostly dirt with some loose rock. The length and relative gentleness of the ascent make this trail an excellent experience for the whole family. At the summit, broad cliffs with panoramic southerly views offer a spectacular picnicking or birdwatching spot.

The trail departs directly across Hawk Mountain Road from the parking lot. The trail begins to climb immediately, with the first 0.2 miles characterized by a consistent moderate grade and gravel surface. Some larger loose rocks line the old roadbed that the trail follows; be careful of rolling stones underfoot. Soon the road narrows, becoming less rocky and more overhung by forest canopy. At the intersection 0.5 miles up the trail, bear right to continue towards the summit and cliffs. Shortly thereafter, the trail emerges onto the first summit in a large clearing which offers views to the east. Continuing into and up the other side of a steep gully, the trail then emerges onto the second summit of Hawk Mountain, which offers cliffs and views to the east, west, and south.

 

Other Information

  • Please carry out all trash.
  • Fires are not permitted in the Hatch Preserve on Hawk Mountain.
  • Camping is not permitted- day use only. 
  • Due to serious erosion issues, the trail is for non-motorized use only.

Trail Manager

For more information please contact Western Foothills Land Trust.

Western Foothills Land Trust

Western Foothills Land Trust
PO Box 107
445 Main Street
Norway, ME 04268
Phone: (207) 739-2124
info@wfltmaine.org
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Trail Tips

Minimize Campfire Impacts
Consider using a cooking stove and alternative light source (flashlight, candle, lantern) instead of building a campfire.
Legend
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Trailhead Information

ME-35: Turn onto Mill Hill Road off of ME-35, 1.2 miles south of Waterford on the left or 4.5 miles north of Harrison on the right. In just over 0.5 miles, turn right onto Hawk Mountain Road and proceed for 0.7 miles. The parking area will be on the left in a dirt lot immediately opposite the trailhead.

Norway: Follow ME-117 south out of Norway for 10 miles and then turn right onto Deer Hill Road. Continue on Deer Hill Road for 3 miles until it ends at Mill Hill Road. Turn left and travel just under 1 mile, then turn left onto Hawk Mountain Road and proceed for 0.7 miles. The parking area will be on the left in a dirt lot immediately opposite the trailhead.

Address: 135 Hawk Mountain Road, Waterford

Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
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Trails
Foot Traffic Only
Please limit use to foot traffic only at this time. Check back to find out when other non-motorized uses are acceptable.
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