During some random walks around the neighborhood, we have checked out the beginning of fall.
At left is the no-name pond earlier this week. As has been noted, the colors are turning on a slow pace.
Our year of rain (3.9” per month is average)
We tried to hike the Trout Mtn. trail last year or so based on newspaper articles praising its view of Baxter State Park and its surroundings. While the trail head is advertised as being along the road to the state park, it is not marked very well and we relied on our friends Pete and Marilyn to eventually find the start of the trail.
The trail is about three miles to the summit through pretty thick woods; the ascent is manageable and the summit is below the tree line. The placement of an observation tower allows the fantastic 360 degree views that were suggested in the newspaper stories. Here you can see the tower and note that I managed to get up halfway to get some great views. Going up higher required some dismissal of any fear of heights; I decided not to test them.
Below you can see the map of the area.
Looking south gives the view of Millinocket Lake.
