The trail from Stratton to Rangeley took us over three distinct sets of mountains separated by two deep river gorges.
First were the completely wooded Crockers
Featuring a long steady climb followed by this jumble of a descent…
Which gave us a view of the Ski Resort on Sugarloaf mountain
We camped just before the no-ford ford of the Carabassett River. (Fording implies getting one’s feet wet during the crossing. This wobbly plank was the sketchy alternative)
This plaque also marked the 200-mile point for us – Less than 2000 to go!!
Very cool natural slide in the gorge between Lone Mountain and the Saddleback Range
Creative trail routing:
And then the beautiful Saddleback Range, a 3 mile above treeline delight!
Standard Maine trail ‘features’
We got to Rangeley just in time to hunker down before a big weather system moved through. Our accommodations could not have been better. Behold the Hiker Hut, an off-the-grid paradise we had the pleasure of calling home for two nights!
We are presently sitting about 5 days outside of Gorham, New Hampshire and a mere 30-something miles from the Main-New Hampshire border. Maine has been amazing, but crossing our first state line will be a huge morale boost – see you there!
fiddleharpa 