A Perfect Day Hike in the 100-Mile Wilderness Region
Borestone Mountain rises 1,981 feet above the lake country south of Monson, on the edge of the 100-Mile Wilderness section of the Appalachian Trail. The summit holds two granite knobs, East Peak and West Peak, separated by a short walk along the ridge. Both deliver wide-open 360-degree views, and on clear days you can see Katahdin to the north, Big Spencer Mountain over Moosehead Lake, and the long ridge of Barren Mountain across Lake Onawa to the south.
The mountain is owned and managed by Maine Audubon as the Borestone Mountain Audubon Sanctuary. The combination of well-maintained trail, dramatic summit, and a small natural history museum at the halfway point makes this one of the most rewarding moderate hikes in the state.
The Trail
The hike begins at the trailhead off Elliotsville Road. The lower section climbs through mixed forest on a wide, well-graded path for about a mile to the visitor center and museum at Sunrise Pond, the halfway point. This first mile is relatively gentle and family-friendly. The visitor center has basic interpretive exhibits and is staffed during the summer season.
From the visitor center, the trail steepens significantly. The upper mile climbs about 700 feet through spruce and fir, with rocky steps, a few short scrambles, and iron rungs bolted into the rock at the steepest sections. This is where the hike earns its difficulty rating. East Peak comes first, with a small open ledge and views east. A short, easy walk continues across to West Peak, the higher of the two summits, where the full 360-degree panorama opens up.
The Summit Views
West Peak is the photo. To the north, Katahdin and the Barren-Chairback range mark the line of the Appalachian Trail through the 100-Mile Wilderness. To the west you can see across Onawa Lake directly below the cliffs to the long shoulder of Barren Mountain. To the east, the lake country rolls away toward Sebec. On a clear autumn day with no haze, the view is one of the best in central Maine.
There is no shelter on the summit, and the upper mountain is exposed to weather from every direction. Plan your time on top accordingly.
When to Go
Spring
Trail opens early but expect mud and lingering ice on the upper sections through May. Black flies arrive in late May.
Summer
Visitor center is staffed and the museum is open. Bring bug spray and start early to beat afternoon haze.
Fall
Foliage in the surrounding lake country is exceptional. Cool air, no bugs, and the clearest views of the year.
Winter
Hikeable with microspikes or snowshoes. The upper rock sections are slick and require caution. Visitor center closed.
October is the standout. The hardwoods around Sunrise Pond turn gold and the views over Lake Onawa are framed by color in every direction.
Practical Notes
Maine Audubon does not allow dogs on the sanctuary trails. This is a strict rule and it exists to protect wildlife, including the loons that nest on Sunrise Pond. Plan accordingly. If you are traveling with a dog, Gulf Hagas and other Piscataquis County hikes nearby are dog-friendly.
The visitor center collects a modest day-use fee during the staffed season. The fee supports trail maintenance, the museum, and Maine Audubon’s broader conservation work in the region. Cell service is essentially nonexistent at the trailhead and on the mountain.
The access road is gravel and the last few miles are rough but passable for most vehicles. After heavy rain or in early spring, drive cautiously.
Packing List
Borestone Day Hike
- 1.5 to 2 liters of water per person
- Snacks for the visitor center and the summit
- Bug spray May through July
- Light layer for the breeze on the summit
- Sturdy shoes (the upper trail has rock steps and rungs)
- Cash or card for the visitor center fee
- Camera
Getting There
The Borestone Mountain trailhead is on Bodfish Valley Road off Elliotsville Road, about 8 miles from Monson. From Bangor the drive takes roughly 1 hour 20 minutes. From Greenville and the Moosehead Lake region, it is about 45 minutes south. The final approach is on gravel roads that are well-marked but require attention.
There is no fuel near the trailhead. Top off in Monson or Greenville before driving in.
FAQ
How long does the Borestone hike take?
Most hikers take about 3 to 4 hours round trip including time at the visitor center and on the summit. The lower mile to Sunrise Pond is easy; the upper mile is steep and slower.
Are dogs allowed?
No. Maine Audubon does not allow dogs on the Borestone Mountain Audubon Sanctuary trails. The policy protects the loons and other wildlife on Sunrise Pond.
Is there a fee?
Yes, a small day-use fee is collected at the visitor center during the staffed summer season. Donations are accepted year-round.
Is the trail kid-friendly?
The lower mile to Sunrise Pond is great for kids. The upper mile is steep with rock steps and iron rungs and is better suited to older children comfortable with a real climb.
Can I see Katahdin from the summit?
Yes, on clear days. West Peak gives a 360-degree view, and Katahdin is visible to the north along with the rest of the Barren-Chairback range that the AT crosses through the 100-Mile Wilderness.
For more in the area, see Gulf Hagas, the Grand Canyon of Maine, or our guide to camping at Peaks-Kenny State Park on Sebec Lake.
