Hiking the Grafton Notch region in Maine 🥾🍁

This area is anchored by the Grafton Loop Trail, a challenging ~38.6-mile loop that links multiple peaks across the Mahoosuc Range.

You don’t have to do the full loop to experience the magic and beauty of this area. There are several individual trail options and summits along the way.

A few highlights:

Old Speck Mountain – One of the big draws of the region. The Old Speck Trail is about 7.6 miles round trip (strenuous) from the trailhead, following the Appalachian Trail route for part of it. You'll be rewarded with sweeping views from the summit observation tower

Baldpate Mountain (East & West peaks) – Crossed via part of the loop (on the east side of Route 26). The east summit (3,815 ft) offers outstanding views in all directions.

Puzzle Mountain – Also on the eastern half of the loop. It’s got several ledges and viewpoints, with vistas into the Bear River Valley, across the Grafton Notch, and toward the Presidential Range when visibility allows.

Sunday River Whitecap – Another peak you can hit along the loop. Great 360° views, including of the Mahoosucs, Whitecap itself, and surrounding valleys.

Expect dense forest, ledges and cliffs, sweeping panoramas of valleys and mountain ridgelines, distant peaks in the White Mountains, and the notch itself dropping away beneath you.

If you do the full loop, you’ll see nine or more scenic peaks and cross sections of rugged backcountry terrain, but each of the hikes and peaks offers something unique, so don't fret if you don't have the time to do the whole thing.

If anyone’s itching for a hiking trip in Maine, I’d highly recommend this route. The views are unbelievable any time of the year, but Fall in Maine from on top of a mountain can't be beat.

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