Summary

11.2 miles. Follow the AT north to expansive above treeline summit of Saddleback Mt. Perhaps my favorite Maine mt South of Katahdin. The trail and summit are quintessential Maine, 3 isolated ponds, well built rock steps, open above treeline ledges to 360° views on summit, and 100% quintessential Maine mud, easily avoided except for my right leg up to the knee. As a hiker I met as I was descending on my last trip said, "pretty glorious!" Bring sturdy boots, light fleece, a wind/rain shell, 2 liters of water, lunch and snacks. At this time of year, even intrepid short pants hikers would benefit from a leg covering option, light cap, and light gloves for the exposed areas.

Take rt 4 north out of Farmington for 32 miles to the well marked AT parking area on left. Trail begins on right of road. To gauge your distance, this is 9 miles south of Rangeley. A marked Maine rest area is several miles before the parking area. Alternate bad weather day is 10/21/18. Summit is expansive and very exposed.