Into the 100-Mile Wilderness
Barren Mountain is the western anchor of the Barren-Chairback Range, a rugged chain of peaks that the Appalachian Trail crosses through the heart of Maine’s 100-Mile Wilderness. At 2,670 feet, the summit is capped by a partially bald dome and a steel fire tower erected in 1951. The views from the top take in Lake Onawa directly below, Borestone Mountain to the south, and the long wilderness corridor stretching north toward Katahdin.
The 10-mile round trip from the trailhead near Monson is a full day hike that earns every view through steady climbing on the AT.
The Trail
The hike begins at a trailhead off a logging road southeast of Monson. You join the Appalachian Trail heading northeast. The first 1.8 miles climb steadily through mixed forest to Barren Slide, a massive rockslide on the mountain’s western face. The slide offers the first open views of the hike, looking west over the lake country.
Above the slide, the AT continues climbing through spruce and fir. The grade is moderate but persistent. At about 4 miles, the trail reaches Barren Ledges, another set of open rock outcrops with views south toward Borestone Mountain and Lake Onawa.
The final mile crosses the partially bald summit zone to the fire tower. The 27-foot steel tower no longer has its cab, but you can climb the remaining structure for a 360-degree panorama. Cloud Pond, a small alpine tarn, sits in a notch on the ridge a short side trip to the east.
Take the 0.3-mile side trail to Cloud Pond if you have the energy. The small alpine pond sits in a mossy depression on the ridge and has one of the most atmospheric lean-to sites on the AT in Maine.
Summit Views
From the fire tower and the open summit ledges, the view extends in every direction. Lake Onawa fills the valley to the south, with Borestone Mountain rising behind it. To the north, the Chairback Range continues the ridgeline toward White Cap Mountain and the deeper wilderness. On clear days, Katahdin is visible to the northeast. The sense of remoteness from this summit is real.
When to Go
Spring
Logging roads may be muddy and impassable until late May. The upper trail is wet. Black flies are fierce.
Summer
Reliable conditions. Bring plenty of water and bug spray. Start early for a long day.
Fall
Foliage over Lake Onawa and the surrounding ridges is outstanding. Cool air, clear views, no bugs.
Winter
Snowshoeable, but access roads may not be plowed. A very long day in winter conditions.
Practical Notes
The access roads are gravel logging roads that may be gated or in poor condition. Check conditions locally in Monson before driving in. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.
Dogs are allowed. No facilities at the trailhead. Cell service is nonexistent. Bring a detailed map; the logging road network can be confusing.
Packing List
Barren Mountain
- 3 liters of water per person
- Lunch and substantial snacks
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Bug spray in summer
- Rain jacket
- Warm layer for the exposed summit
- Map and compass or GPS
- Headlamp (it is a long day)
Getting There
The trailhead is accessed via logging roads from Elliotsville Road, southeast of Monson. From Monson, the drive is about 30 minutes on a mix of paved and gravel roads. From Bangor, allow about 1 hour 30 minutes total.
FAQ
How long does the Barren Mountain hike take?
Plan for 6 to 9 hours round trip for the 10-mile hike, depending on pace and time spent on the summit.
Can I climb the fire tower?
The cab has been removed, but the steel frame remains and you can climb it for a better view. Use caution.
Is this the same trailhead as Borestone Mountain?
No. Borestone Mountain has its own trailhead off Elliotsville Road. The Barren Mountain trailhead is farther east on logging roads.
Can I backpack the Barren-Chairback Range?
Yes. The AT traverses the entire range with lean-to shelters at Cloud Pond and several other locations. It is a popular 2-to-3-day backpacking trip.
