Hiking

Hike to the 3,600' Burnt Mountain summit, which offers 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains, including the snowfields of Sugarloaf on its eastern side, and local towns in the Carrabassett River Valley. The trailhead can be accessed at the end of Bigelow Mountain Road off Mountainside Road. The 3 mile trail, which follows a streambed and has one moderately steep section, winds through softwoods and hardwoods, including a large section of white birch before reaching the broad summit covered in thick alpine grass.

There are two ways to hike to the summit of Cranberry Peak:

From Stratton:

Driving north on Route 27 take a right onto Currie St. in Stratton. Follow Currie St. (it will quickly turn to dirt) for .3 miles. This is a short but strenuous hike with many lookouts. From the summit, you can either return on the same trail or continue your hike, descending by way of the picturesque Cranberry Pond and continuing on to Stratton Brook and Route 27.

From Route 27 or Stratton Brook:

The Appalachian Trail crosses Route 27 about 2.7 miles north of the Sugarloaf Access Road. The Stratton Brook Road is a .5 mile beyond the Appalachian Trail on the right. This route has an easier climb to the summit with a steep descent, or the option of visiting the pond without hiking to the summit. Before beginning, park a vehicle at the other end as the trailhead and finish are separated by a considerable distance.

No matter which approach is taken be sure to bring plenty of drinking water as there is none available on the trail.

Short and easy, this is a great hike to take in the afternoon. To pick up the trail, take the Caribou Pond Road 1 mile north of Sugarloaf Access Road on the left, off Route 27. The Cirque Trail can be entered right off the road. A reflecting pool surrounded by the towering walls of North and South Crocker Mountains offers a very nice setting for lunch, or stay overnight at the small campsite.

The Horns can be approached from Cranberry Peak or directly from Stratton Brook off Route 27. Located on The Horns Pond is a campsite with tent platforms, water and bathroom facilities. A strong hiker can reach the summit and return in one day. However, if time allows, an overnight trip including Avery Peak would be ideal. Elevation gain to the west peak is 3,100 feet.

This short trail begins at the Sugarloaf Golf Club and entails an easy hike .3 mile to a quiet, scenic area on the south branch of the Carrabassett River. This is a great place for a picnic, swimming or just relaxing.