| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Sugarloaf Mountain, Spaulding Mountain, ME |
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 | Trails: |
Appalachian Trail, Sugarloaf Mountain Trail, Spaulding Side Trail |
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 | Date of Hike: |
Sunday, August 18, 2019 |
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 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
The Appalachian Trail can be accessed from a small parking area off of Caribou Pond Road 1 mile north of the intersection with Sugarloaf Ski Resort (the Guide says Caribou Valley Rd., the road sign and Gazetteer say Caribou Pond). There were 7 cars when we pulled in at 8:30. There were 12 when we left. Note that Caribou Pond is closed to traffic Monday through Friday until mid-December for logging operations. This gravel road is in excellent shape. Low clearance vehicles will have absolutely no issues driving this road. |
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 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Wet Trail, Mud - Minor/Avoidable |
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 | Recommended Equipment: |
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 | Water Crossing Notes: |
The south branch of the Carrabassett River was a formidable crossing after a night of rain. The Maine Mountain Guide warned that the crossing “can be difficult, if not impossible, in high water.†A plank had been laid down over the large, forceful rapid in the square center of the crossing. It was tethered to the banks by a rusted, but sound, cable. The plank was sound, two male AT thru hikers crossed (one at a time) with very little sag in the board. These two looked to be about 160 to 170 pounds. This branch has a fast forceful current, if in doubt, look elsewhere to cross or wait until rain has subsided. This branch is also many feet deep adding to the concern of possible injury. |
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 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
There are several sections suffering from erosion in the poor, thin soils along the side of the ravine as you climb steeply away from the South Branch on Sugarloaf. |
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 | Dog-Related Notes: |
Only the water crossing poses a potential barrier to dogs. |
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 | Bugs: |
Noseems... still out and about... and in your eyes, nostrils, and ears. Otherwise noted quite a drop in bug counts this day. |
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 | Lost and Found: |
REI gater left at campsite on shore of South Branch of Carrabassett River. Left where found. |
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 | Comments: |
Good, challenging hike to grab two more of the Maine 4000 footers. The 2 miles from the river to the Sugarloaf Trail junction are the hardest of the whole hike. Steep slopes, exposed (but blessedly short) sections of rock scrambles, exposed sections along the flank of the ravine make for an unnerving and exhausting start to this long hike. Then it is a wicked nice hike along the ridge with a relatively easy climb to Spaulding summit. Maine... always gotta kick your butt right outta of the gate. |
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 | Name: |
Remington34 |
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 | E-Mail: |
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| Date Submitted: |
2019-08-19 |
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 | Link: |
 https:// |
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Disclaimer: Reports are not verified - conditions may vary. Use at own risk. Always be prepared when hiking. Observe all signs. Trail conditions reports are not substitutes for weather reports or common sense. |
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