This is a short hike to a series of open ledges just to the north of South Branch Pond Campground. The complete loop, which includes utilizing part of the South Branch Road, is 1.2 miles in length. The best way to hike the loop is counterclockwise. Begin by walking north on the South Branch Road out of the campground. After 0.1 miles turn right onto the Middle Fowler Trail. Begin a short climb along a series of ledges. At 0.3 miles reach a trail junction. The Ledges Trail bears left and swings northwest, crossing ledges with fine views south over the South Branch valley. The trail then descends westward back toward the road. At 0.7 miles the trail ends on the South Branch Pond Road. It is 0.5 miles left on the road and downhill to the campground. The trail is blue-blazed.
Park Fees: See website for entrance and camping fee schedule. [No entrance fee for Maine residents.]
Park Rules: See a more complete list here.
This trail is within Baxter State Park. For more information and detailed trail maps, please visit Baxter State Park Authority's website.
Ledges Loop Trailhead is at South Branch Pond Campground in northern Baxter State Park.
From Patten: leave ME-11 and turn left on ME-159/Shin Pond Road. Continue for 26 miles on this road to the Matagamon Gatehouse. Continue 7 miles on the Park Tote Road past the gatehouse and then turn left towards South Branch Pond. The campground is at the end of this 2-mile road and the trailhead is on the left before the parking area.
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