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Mars Hill
Mars Hill, ME
Trailheads, measurements, times, distances, and maps are all approximate and relative to the hike(s) as shown below.
The trail on the ridge
Route: Ski trails, International Appalachian Trail
After skiing the afternoon at Big Rock, I inquired with ski patrol about snowshoeing up. They were very friendly and suggested I take the old Poma lift line (labelled on the trail map as a snowmobile access trail). I ascended that, then the top of a ski trail above it, then took the IAT/SIA along the ridge and to the summit. Still full snowpack everywhere, perhaps one to three feet, with an ice crust on top.
Unfortunately the views were a bit obscured by the weather. The wind turbines certainly detract from what would otherwise be an amazing mountain, as it's situated on the Canadian border and is surrounded by flat terrain. A description I read suggested there are views in all directions, but that did not appear to be the case. Nevertheless, views can be obtained in most directions if one drops down to the plowed wind turbine road (which runs somewhat parallel to the IAT on the ridge) or meanders around the peak.
Very cold afternoon with windchills in the negative 20s.
| Hike Ratings |
|
Getting To Trailhead: |
Easy |
| Destination: |
Mars Hill |
|
Length: |
Moderate |
|
Steepness: |
Difficult |
|
Navigation: |
Moderate |
|
Views: |
Excellent |
|
Crowds: |
Minimal |
|
| Hike Stats |
|
Date Hiked: |
Saturday, March 11, 2017 |
| Parking Elevation: |
650' |
| Destination: |
Mars Hill |
| Time Elapsed: |
00:24 |
| Trailhead Elevation: |
670' |
| Summit Elevation: |
1,748' |
| Vertical Gain: |
1,098' |
|
|
| Hike Time Elapsed: |
00:53 |
| Hike Vertical Gain: |
1,128' |
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The start of the Poma lift line
Looking into Canada from Mars Hill
Directions to trailhead: From US 1A in Mars Hill, take Boynton Road, then take a right onto East Blaine Road, then take a left onto Graves Road. Big Rock ski area is located at the top of the road.
Back to Mars Hill Profile
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