| Hiking Trail Conditions Report |
 | Peaks |
Mt. Tom, ME |
|
 | Trails: |
Mt. Tom Trail, West Ridge Trail |
|
 | Date of Hike: |
Friday, September 27, 2024 |
|
 | Parking/Access Road Notes: |
Roadside parking at Mount Tom Trailhead. Parking lot at West Ridge Trailhead |
|
 | Surface Conditions: |
Dry Trail, Wet Trail, Mud - Minor/Avoidable |
|
 | Recommended Equipment: |
|
|
 | Water Crossing Notes: |
All were dry |
|
 | Trail Maintenance Notes: |
Mount Tom Trail does not have many markings, but is clear and easy enough to follow. West Ridge Trail is well blazed and maintained. |
|
 | Dog-Related Notes: |
Mount Tom Trail is great for dogs. West Ridge Trail is technically closed to dogs, but the only signage is at the bottom. |
|
 | Bugs: |
Not an issue |
|
 | Lost and Found: |
|
|
|
|
|
 | Comments: |
We decided to ascend via the Mount Tom Trail. This trail started on a dirt road which passed through a field and by some houses before it passed through an active log yard. Because of the active logging and recent rain, this section of trail was rather muddy. The trail ascended gradually and became more of a footpath as it moved away from the logging. Eventually, it entered a beautiful stand of mature hemlocks before reaching the junction with the West Ridge Trail. From here, it was an easy walk across the flat summit plateau to the summit sign and viewpoint. From the viewpoint, there were good views southeast towards Pleasant Mountain and the hills around Brownfield.
After enjoying the view and eating lunch, we split up. Because dogs are not allowed on the West Ridge Trail (although the only signage was at the base of the trail), my wife and Sampson descended back down the Mount Tom Trail while I went down the West Ridge Trail. The West Ridge Trail was a longer, but very pleasant descent, passing across some ledges and by some large rock outcroppings. |
|
 | Name: |
Sam Shirley |
|
 | E-Mail: |
newenglandskier13@aol.com |
|
| Date Submitted: |
2024-09-27 |
|
 | Link: |
 https:// |
|
|
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. |
|
