Tumbledown’s Quieter Neighbor
Little Jackson Mountain rises to 3,434 feet in the Tumbledown Range of western Maine, just south of its famous neighbor Tumbledown Mountain. While Tumbledown draws the crowds with its alpine pond, Little Jackson offers a longer, more solitary hike with equally impressive views from an open ridgeline that stretches above treeline.
The mountain sits in Weld, Franklin County, surrounded by the forests and lakes of the western mountains. Mount Blue State Park and Webb Lake are nearby, making the area a natural base for a multi-day hiking trip. The combination of Tumbledown, Little Jackson, and Big Jackson forms one of the best ridge traverses in Maine outside of the Bigelow Range.
The Trail
The Little Jackson Mountain Trail starts from the same parking area on Morgan Road used for the Tumbledown Mountain trailheads. From the east, follow ME Route 142 north from Weld and turn left onto Byron Road, which becomes unpaved and eventually leads to Morgan Road. The final stretch of road is narrow and rough but passable for most vehicles.
The trail climbs steadily through mixed hardwood forest for the first mile, crossing a couple of small brooks. The grade increases through the middle section as spruce and fir take over. At approximately 2.5 miles, the trail breaks above treeline and the character of the hike changes completely. From here to the summit, you are walking an exposed ridgeline with views in every direction.
The total round trip is about 5.7 miles with roughly 2,362 feet of elevation gain. Most hikers complete it in 4 to 5 hours.
From approximately 2.5 miles to the summit, the trail is above treeline and fully exposed to wind and weather. Turn back if thunderstorms are approaching. In bad visibility, the open ridge can be disorienting. Carry a map and compass.
The Summit and Views
The summit of Little Jackson offers wide-open views in every direction. To the north, Tumbledown Mountain and its alpine pond are visible below. The Bigelow Range, Sugarloaf, and Crocker Mountain line the northern horizon. To the east, Mount Blue rises above Webb Lake. To the west and south, the ridges of the western mountains roll toward the New Hampshire border.
On a clear day, you can see from Katahdin to Mount Washington. The summit area is rocky and windswept, with low scrub and patches of alpine vegetation.
For a longer day, traverse from Little Jackson north to Tumbledown Mountain and descend via the Brook Trail. This loop covers about 7 miles and hits both summits, including Tumbledown’s famous alpine pond. Leave a car at the Brook Trail parking area or plan to walk the road back.
When to Go
Spring
Snow and ice linger on the upper ridge into May. Morgan Road may be impassable during mud season. Blackflies from late May through mid-June.
Summer
Full access. Long days allow plenty of time. Morning starts beat afternoon heat and haze on the exposed ridge.
Fall
Peak foliage mid-September to early October. Cool temperatures, no bugs, and the clearest views of the year.
Winter
Snowshoes or microspikes needed. The exposed ridge is serious in winter conditions. Morgan Road is not plowed.
Practical Notes
Cell service is spotty in the Weld area. You may get a signal on the summit ridge, but do not count on it. The nearest services are in Weld village, which has a small general store. For groceries, fuel, and full services, head to Farmington, about 30 minutes south.
Dogs are welcome on the trail. The mountain is on State Bureau of Public Lands property.
The parking area on Morgan Road fills up on summer weekends, mostly from Tumbledown hikers. If you arrive by 8 AM, you will usually find a spot. Little Jackson sees a fraction of the traffic that Tumbledown does, so once you are on the trail, expect solitude.
Packing List
Little Jackson Mountain Day Hike
- 2 liters of water per person
- Lunch and snacks
- Wind layer (the ridgeline is exposed)
- Rain jacket
- Bug spray (June through July)
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Sunscreen and hat (no shade above treeline)
- Map and compass
Getting There
From Farmington, take Route 4 North to Route 142 North through Weld. In Weld, turn left onto Byron Road (which becomes unpaved) and follow signs toward Tumbledown Mountain. Continue to Morgan Road and the trailhead parking area. The drive from Portland takes about 2 hours. From Bangor, allow about 2 hours and 15 minutes via Route 2 West to Farmington, then north.
FAQ
How does Little Jackson compare to Tumbledown?
Little Jackson is longer (5.7 miles vs. roughly 3 miles for Tumbledown's Brook Trail) and has more elevation gain. Tumbledown has the famous alpine pond. Little Jackson has a longer exposed ridgeline with arguably better panoramic views. Tumbledown is much more crowded.
Can I hike Little Jackson and Tumbledown in one day?
Yes. A traverse from Little Jackson to Tumbledown and down via the Brook Trail covers about 7 miles. It is a full day but very rewarding. You will need to spot a car or walk about a mile on the road between trailheads.
Is the trail well marked?
The trail is marked with blue blazes and is generally easy to follow in the forest. Above treeline, cairns mark the route across the open ridge. Pay attention in fog or low visibility.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. The trail is on State Bureau of Public Lands property and dogs are welcome. Keep them leashed near the trailhead and under control on the ridge.
Is the access road passable for regular cars?
Most cars can make it to the parking area, but the last few miles on Morgan Road are rough. Go slowly and watch for rocks. High-clearance vehicles have an easier time.
