Elevation: 1,676 ft. (overall) 2,298 ft. (total)
Time: 4:20
Trails: Long Trail
Knowing today was going to hot and very humid, I got an early start on this hike so I could be done before the worst part of the day. Stratton Mtn is 78th on the New England Hundred Highest list and would be the only peak planned for today.
The first thing I encountered today was a still smoldering fire at the makeshift campsite 50 feet up the trail. It's sad to think that someone could be so irresponsible as to not pour some water over their fire when they are done. The river is less than 100 feet away and we are currently going through a very dry spell where fire could spread easily.
The trail is quite easy to start with no real ups or downs, just a casual walk through the woods. There were some flowers scattered along next to the trail including one large cluster of Pink Lady Slippers. After a couple of bog bridges in damp areas, the trail crosses an access road. After this, the trail finally starts to gain some elevation.
Pink Lady Slippers
This Painted Trillium didn't read the guidebook to know that it should only have three petals, not nine
The trail never really gets steep and even levels out for a brief section to give you a nice break. Even though it has been dry, there was a muddy section through here though. Once the trail starts to gain elevation again, you will pass a small and limited view point. Above that there is also a nice cool spring next to the trail. Shortly after that you will reach the summit where there is a caretakers shack and fire tower. Climbing the tower provides views in all directions. Besides, if there is a tower, you must climb it.
About as hard as the trail gets
Summit fire tower
View to the south
View to the west
The views were hazy today with all of the humidity, but still nice. Given the nice views and the fact that this was such and easy climb for one of New England's 100 highest peaks, I'm sure I will be back. Wanting to take it easy with today's weather, I opted to head back down the way I came up rather than make the loop past Stratton Pond. Maybe next time. This gave me a chance to take it easy and enjoy the other wild flowers on the side of the trail.
For all the pictures from the hike, click HERE
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