South Peak Loop via Fire Wardens Trail(edit)

based on 22 tracks & routes | |

DIFFICULT

#6 hike out of 15 in Bigelow Preserve |

DIFFICULT

10.2 mi

Distance

5 hrs 4 min

Time

2,831 ft

Elev Gain

Overview

This is a difficult loop trail to South Peak in Bigelow Preserve.

The Bigelow Preserve is a state-owned nature preserve in Western Maine. Established in 1976, this protected land is open to the public for hiking, camping, boating, fishing, fall foliage, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, etc. At over 36,000 acres there is an abundance of flora and fauna to discover.

This mapped trails allows access to two out of Maine's 14 recognized peaks over 4000 feet - Mount Bigelow, Avery Peak (4090'; turn east at Avery Lean-To) and West Peak (4145'; turn west at Avery Lean-To). This trail goes by Avery Lean-to, The Horns, and The Horns Pond. Take in views of the surrounding lands as well as Flagstaff Lake.

The mountains are named after Major Timothy Bigelow who summitted the peaks in the late 1700s. The Maine Appalachian Trail Club maintains these tracks and provides seasonal caretakers at the backcountry camping sites.

Open year round.

Getting Started

Parking is available at the end of Stratton Brook Pond Road (a dirt road that parallels Stratton Brook and ends as you near Stratton Brook Pond). (Latitude 45.109913, Longitude -70.337461). There is a small road that continues from this site but four-wheel drive is recommended. It is a short hike from this parking area to the start of the trail.

Rate this Hike

★★★★★

Ashley 2 years, 10 months ago

Absolutely gorgeous and clear views from all summits of Flagstaff Lake and the surrounding preserve (albeit a bit windy up top). Some mud in shaded and low-lying areas, little buggy but not terrible. Trail was well-maintained. Hot and humid even at elevation. About 6.5 hours of hiking time for me. Slow-going as it was my first lengthy hike of the season.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

gross22 3 years, 7 months ago

Absolutely unreal hike. Started out with my 10 year old 35lbs Afghan rescue dog Fred around 1pm. Took lots of quick breaks for water on the way up. He did great but I wouldn’t recommend bringing a dog you can’t carry if you have to. They’ll also need to be in good shape. We did it in 6 hours total with 5 hours of moving time. It was officially dark when we made it back to the truck but the late afternoon light at the top was worth the sketchy low light walk out. When we come back we’ll start earlier to give us more time.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★