Hiking Guide for Rangeley, Maine’s Favorite Mountain- Saddleback

Saddleback is Maine’s third-largest alpine zone and second-most trafficked. With over 200 miles of 360-degree visibility on a bluebird day, most people climb the mountain for breathtaking views, but the real treat is what’s under your feet.

The ridgeline is home to 3 miles of rare, and fragile alpine flora. There are less than 50 miles of alpine tundra like it in all New England. As you start to climb above the ski area boundary, the first thing you’ll probably notice is the trees start to change. These short, twisted trees are called Krummholz. Many Krummholz trees only ever reach 3 feet tall – even at 10 years old. The harsh conditions on the mountain force these plants to adapt to overcome the elements.

The ecosystem on Saddleback is incredibly diverse and home to some of the rarest plant and bird species in the East. Labrador-tea, Diapensia, Moose, Bobcat, Lynx, and Bicknell’s Thrush are just a few species that call Saddleback’s summit their home.

Trail Options

Summit Via Grey Ghost & Tri-Color

Distance: 1.7 miles (one way)
Duration: 2.5 hours round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous
Description: This is the most direct route to the summit. Starting from the lodge, follow Wheeler Slope, Grey Ghost, Tri-Color, and the Summit Spur to the Appalachian Trail. The hike is steep and exposed, but the 360-degree views at the summit are worth the effort.
Special Notes: Stay on the marked trail to protect the delicate alpine flora. Near the summit, there is another hidden gem you won’t find too often. A rare ALPINE BOG, that is commonly mistaken for a pond. This bog is extremely fragile and should not be used as a water source. Dogs and kids should not swim in, play in or drink from it.

The Horn Via the Appalachian Trail

Distance: 3.4 miles round trip from Saddleback Summit (6.8 miles from Lodge)
Duration: Additional 1.5-2 hours
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
Description: From the summit of Saddleback, continue 1.7 miles north along the Appalachian Trail to reach The Horn, another 4,000-footer. Enjoy stunning alpine views and the opportunity to see rare plant species.
Special Notes: Even though the life up here can withstand the elements, it can’t withstand trampling. It only takes 5 or 6 footsteps to kill 80% of an alpine plant’s root and, because of the short season they have, it takes 15-20 years for that to recover. Dogs should always be on leash above tree line. Be aware, weather can change quickly and there is limited shelter.

Berry Pickers Trail

Distance: 1.6 miles (one way)
Duration: Varies, depending on chosen loops
Difficulty: Strenuous
Description: A steep and rocky trail that connects the Appalachian Trail and Fly Rod Crosby Trail. This trail offers an adrenaline rush and spectacular views from the summit.
Special Notes: The trail is challenging and recommended for experienced hikers. They call it the Berry Pickers trail for a reason though! Swing by in August for some tart morsels.

Rock Pond

Fly Rod Crosby Trail – Saddleback Spur

Distance: Varies (several loop options)
Duration: Varies
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: Sometimes it’s not about the mountain-top experience. Sometimes being immersed in nature is all you are really looking for. Spend a day on the mountain wandering through the forest spotting signs of moose, angling fish, or listening to the birdsongs.
If this sounds like the perfect day, then allow us to introduce you to the Saddleback Spur of the Fly Rod Crosby Trail, where history and nature converge to create a remarkable outdoor experience. This segment, maintained by volunteers of the HIGH PEAKS ALLIANCE, offers a glimpse into the extraordinary lifestyle of Fly Rod Crosby and showcases the breathtaking beauty of Maine’s western mountains. Come see for yourself why Fly Rod spent her life inviting others to experience the secret beauties our region holds.

This trail offers a leisurely loop past Rock and Midway Ponds, with little elevation change. It’s perfect for a relaxing hike in the woods and offers opportunities for fishing (with a proper license).

Special Notes: No mountain bikes, ATVs, or motorcycles allowed. Camping is not permitted in this section.

Camp in the Clouds

The Camp in the Clouds

Distance: Approximately 1-mile round trip
Duration: About 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Description: Starting from the Rock Pond Parking Area on the Saddleback Spur of the Fly Rod Crosby Trail, this hike takes you to Midway Pond via Bobcat Cut. It’s a relatively easy 20-minute hike to the pond. From there, follow a lightly trodden, single-track path around the north shore. The trail winds through blowdowns and eventually climbs a hill to reveal “The Camp in the Clouds” – the remnants of an old chimney with a historically significant yet overgrown vista.
Special Notes: The Saddleback Spur of the Fly Rod Crosby Trail is a treasure trove for nature lovers. Some sections are so new that the single-track trail feels more like a game trail than a hiking trail, our favorite. The trail is less defined and may require careful navigation. Ensure you have a GPS or trail app for guidance.

Large Loops and Overnight Hikes

Distance: 12.9 miles round trip
Duration: About 7 hours plus an hour for lunch and views
Difficulty: Strenuous
Description: It is possible to make 3 different large loops from the trails on the mountain. The longest being Hiking up Grey Ghost to the summit, turn left and head north along the AT, then turn right and head south along the Berry Pickers Trail, then west along the Fly Rod Crosby trail until you intersect the Saddleback Spur where you turn right and follow the path until you reach the lodge.
Special Notes: You can split this into an overnight and camp at Eddy Pond where the AT and FRCT meet.

Protecting the Environment

Saddleback Mountain’s alpine zone is home to rare and fragile plant species. To help protect this unique environment:

Stay on Marked Trails: Above the tree line, travel only on durable surfaces like rock or dirt. One step on the Diapensia could take decades to regrow.
Keep Dogs on Leash: To prevent disturbance to wildlife and damage to plants.
Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and avoid damaging vegetation. This means TP too.

Camping and Parking

Camping: Not permitted on the mountain, along the Saddleback Spur of the Fly Rod Crosby Trail, or above the tree line. Designated campsites include Eddy Pond, Piazza Rock, and Redington Stream Campsite along the Appalachian Trail.
Overnight Parking: Permitted in the back of Lot #2. Practice leave no trace etiquette. Please no tents or campfires.
Bathrooms: Available at the lodge during operating hours.

Essential Tips

Plan Ahead and Prepare: The weather can be unpredictable, even in mid-summer. Bring extra layers, snacks, and plenty of water.
Emergency Services: Hike at your own risk; there are no on-mountain emergency services. The forest in this region can be dense so stay on marked trails.
Leave No Trace: Minimize your impact on the environment to preserve it for future generations.

Enjoying Your Visit

What better way to spend a summer’s day than with a hike in the Appalachian Mountains? Fishing, camping, backpacking, birding, and hiking are all activities available on the mountain. To us, a day of hiking always includes a hearty meal. Swing by The Pub Thursday-Sunday or hike upta The Nest for Sunday brunch. Enjoy a summer menu carefully crafted by Chef Coco while soaking in the beauty of Western Maine.

It is each of our responsibilities to safeguard the alpine zone of Saddleback Mountain. This way we can ensure the continued existence of its unique flora and fauna. Let us embrace and uncover the secrets hidden within this extraordinary environment as you immerse yourself in the wonders of nature at its most resilient. Leave only footprints and memories behind.

For more detailed information, maps, and trail guides, refer to saddlebackmaine.com/activity/hiking/

Hikers Hike!