Chilly nights, Jack ‘o lanterns, and apple pie with cider, are just a few of the signs fall has arrived in Maine.
But perhaps the most spectacular sign of fall is the red, orange and gold leaves blazing their way across the rolling landscape from late-September to mid-October.
Leaf peeping in Maine has become a hobby for many. Last year the Maine state foliage Web site had more than three million visits in a seven-week period.
While some choose to drive the hilly terrain to view the changing leaves, the most beautiful scenery can only be seen from atop a mountain peak.
Cutler Mountain in Hiram offers one of the best views in the area. From the top, hikers have a panoramic view of the region. Views of the east allow hikers to view Douglas and Sawyer mountains, as well as the winding Saco River. West offers a view of the White Mountains in New Hampshire. On a clear day Mount Washington is visible.
Cutler Mountain has two hiking trails. At the beginning of the trail take the right fork for a steep hike up to the scenic overlook. Taking a left at the fork leads to a trail that offers a forest hike with occasional look-out points.
To get to Cutler Mountain, take Route 113 to Hiram. After crossing the Saco River, turn onto River Road. Follow trail markers and bear right on a dirt road to the parking area.
Douglas Mountain in Baldwin offers a short hike with scenic views of Sebago and western mountains. There is an 80-year-old stone tower at the top of the mountain that makes a perfect spot for photos.
To access Douglas Mountain, take Route 107 in Baldwin to Douglas Hill. Parking for the mountain is $3 per carload. The lot is approximately one-quarter mile below the trail’s entrance off Douglas Mountain Road.
There are four trails on the mountain; the Ledge and Eagle Scout trails are the most strenuous to hike. The Woods and Nature trails allow hikers to explore the mountain ecosystem.
Accessible on foot from Route 117 in Limington via the abandoned Sawyer Mountain Road, Sawyer Mountain offers beautiful views from a scenic overlook. It is an easy one-mile hike to the summit. The summit is owned by the Francis Small Heritage Trust and is open to the public daily.
For more information on area hiking trails in Maine visit http://www.maineinfo.net/hiking.php.
view2.jpg Cutline: The view from the top of the stone tower on Douglas Mountain has thrilled hikers for over 80 years. Staff photo by David Harry Send questions/comments to the editors.
