Route description
An easy trail, that offers picturesque views across the natural reserve surrounding Mount Blue and the region around the hamlet Weld.
Start at the parking's north side and follow the wooden signs up to Mount Blue. Total length 1,6mi/2,5km.
Perfect to take a short break is the mountain hut you'll pass after approximately one mile.
Afterwards the path gets narrow and rocky but still stays accessible. To your right a beautiful view across untouched nature will emerge.
Up on the peak sits an old fireprotection tower. Enjoy a fabulous panorama once you reached the peak. Looking north you'll be able to see the peaks of Mount Abraham (4049ft/1234m high) and Saddleback (4120ft/1255m high). Looking west you'll be able to spot Mount Tumbledown.
Although Mount Blue isn't the region's highest mountain (3187ft/972m), it still is one of its most famous hiking destinations.
You may also camp or have a picnic on Mount Blue.
To get back to where you started the tour, simply take the same way back.
Where to eat
There are no places along the way to get food so you should bring your own supplies.
Interesting facts
- You're traveling a distance of 5 km on this easy trail. The hike is therefore not too long. Average length of all hikes in Maine is 14 km.
- You're facing an uphill climb of 362 vertical meters on this hike. This makes the hike one of the 10 hikes with the most ascent in the USA. The highest point of the track is 972 m above sea level.
- It’s ok to bring your best friend on this dog friendly hike.
- Make sure to bring sturdy footwear on this track. Hiking boots are highly recommended.
Video
Highlights of the tour
Highlight of this tour is the view down from Mount Blue, across the natural reserve.
Variations
Starting at different parkings the park offers different hiking trails through the natural reserve.
Equipment
Walking shoes, weather appropriate clothing and enough food and drinks.
Getting here
By car:
Coming from the north
At the junction ME Route 4 and ME Route 142 in Philips take the latter towards south. After approximately 7mi/11,3km make a sharp right turn. Now leave ME Route 142 to the left and follow Center Hill Road. After about 1.5mi/0,8km keep right and after another 2.5mi/4km make a sharp left turn onto Mt Blue Road. Follow the street for about 1.8mi/2,9km and turn right into the forest road, where you'll find parking and the starting point of the tour.
Coming from the south
At the junction ME Route 156 and Main Route 142 in Weld drive towards east onto Center Hill Road. After approximately 0.5mi/800m turn slightly left. Now start following the signs to Center Hill Trails parking. After passing the Mountain Blue State Park's ranger station and its picnic area drive another 3mi/4,8km on Center Hill Road. Keep following the signs towards Mountain Hill Trails parking onto Mt Blue Road. After 1.8mi/2,9km turn right onto the forest road, where you'll find parking and the starting point of the tour.
