A couple of summers ago, when the lupine were in full bloom and beautiful at the roadsides, we took a little trip with some friends to climb Big Chick hill in Clifton Maine. Big Chick and Little Chick are the alternate names for Big and Little Peaked Mountain. We were prepared for an easy hike, expecting to be up and down and back to their house for bison steak within a few hours. Our plan was foiled by the views at the top. This little afternoon hike is worth the effort needed to find it for the scenery alone.
In Penobscot country, Route 9 is also called the Airline, and acts as thruway for lumber laden tractor trailers coming from Canada to southern destinations. It can be a busy route, and because of that there are convenience stores along the way should you have neglected to pack a picnic for this hike. From the route 180 and 9 intersection, follow route 9 east for 4.3 miles. You’ll find a gravel pullout on the left side of the road at the top of a long hill. It takes a keen eye to spot the trail, but you’ll find it.
The climb isn’t difficult, with good knees and back, but it is pretty steep in places with loose rock and sand to slip around on. It should take no longer than thirty minutes to reach the summit. Hike over the peak and its antennae tower for a view of Acadia National Park’s Cadillac Mountain. Navigate the summit to view the lush evergreen carpet dotted with lakes and ponds. To the north, clear sky would afford a view of Mt Katahdin.
My camera couldn’t justify the view. It truly is what people come to Maine to see, lakes and mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
This hike can be done by kids and adults and makes for a fun afternoon of some exercise and hopefully sunshine.
Friday is my travel Maine blog day. Come back next week and see where we go!
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