A Quick Climb with Big Views in the Oxford Hills
Streaked Mountain rises 1,770 feet between Buckfield and South Paris in Oxford County, about an hour and fifteen minutes northwest of Portland. The hike is short, roughly 0.7 miles to the top, but the trail climbs steeply up the bare granite face of the mountain and delivers views that punch well above its weight. On a clear day you can see the White Mountains and the Presidential Range in New Hampshire, the Little Androscoggin River Valley, and the rolling hills of western Maine in every direction.
This is one of the best quick hikes in the state for families, new hikers, and anyone who wants a real summit experience without committing to a full day on the trail. The round trip takes most people under an hour, and the open granite summit is a perfect spot to sit, eat a snack, and take in the scenery.
The Trail
The Streaked Mountain Trail starts from a small parking area on Streaked Mountain Road, off Route 117 between Buckfield and South Paris. The trailhead is near a set of power lines that cross the road, just past a stone-wall-enclosed cemetery. The path is not blazed with paint, but it is well worn and easy to follow.
From the parking area, the trail enters the woods briefly before emerging onto the open granite face of the mountain. The route climbs directly up the exposed rock, which is steep in places but never requires scrambling with hands. Wild blueberry bushes cover the granite slopes and make for excellent picking in late July and August.
The final approach to the summit crosses the open ledge with views opening up in all directions. The top is broad and flat, with room for groups to spread out. The remains of a fire tower base sit on the summit. The tower itself was removed years ago, but the concrete footings are still visible.
The open granite slopes face south and get full sun all day. In summer, the rock heats up significantly. Bring sunscreen and water even for this short hike. In winter, the exposed granite can be icy and slippery.
The Summit
The bare summit gives you a nearly 360-degree view. To the west, the White Mountains and Presidential Range line the horizon on clear days. To the south and east, the Oxford Hills roll away toward the Little Androscoggin River Valley. The landscape is a patchwork of forest, fields, and small towns that is quintessentially rural Maine.
Communication towers and power line infrastructure sit near the summit. They are not the prettiest additions, but they do not seriously diminish the views, which are expansive enough to look past them.
When to Go
Spring
Muddy in the woods at the base. The granite dries quickly. Wildflowers appear in May.
Summer
Blueberries ripen in late July and August. Bring sunscreen for the exposed climb.
Fall
Foliage views across the Oxford Hills are outstanding. Cool air makes the climb comfortable.
Winter
Exposed granite can be icy. Microspikes recommended. Short enough for a quick winter outing on a calm day.
Late July through August is a local favorite for the blueberries. The bushes grow thick on the granite slopes and produce well in good years. Bring a container.
Practical Notes
Streaked Mountain is in the town of Buckfield, though the trail actually passes through parts of Paris and Hebron. Locals sometimes call it a “South Paris hike.” If you are asking for directions in the area, both names will get you to the right place.
The parking area fits about 10 cars. On busy fall weekends, it fills up, but the hike is short enough that turnover is quick. Dogs are welcome and common on this trail. The granite is rough enough to give dogs good traction, though the steep sections may challenge smaller dogs.
Cell service is generally good on the summit thanks to the communication towers, though it may drop at the trailhead.
Streaked Mountain Quick Hike
- Water bottle
- Sunscreen (exposed granite face)
- Sturdy shoes with grip for steep rock
- Container for blueberries (July-August)
- Camera
- Light layer for the summit breeze
Getting There
From Portland, take Route 26 North to Route 117 West toward South Paris and Buckfield. Turn onto Streaked Mountain Road, which is less than 150 yards past a cemetery on the left. The trailhead parking is a short distance up the road near the power lines. From Lewiston or Auburn, the drive is about 30 minutes west on Route 117. From Bangor, take Route 2 West to Route 117 South, roughly an hour and 45 minutes.
FAQ
How long does the Streaked Mountain hike take?
Most hikers complete the round trip in 30 to 60 minutes. The trail is only about 0.7 miles to the summit, but the steep granite face slows some hikers down.
Is Streaked Mountain good for kids?
Yes, for kids who are comfortable on steep terrain. The trail is short, but the granite face is steep and exposed. Older kids and confident younger hikers do well. Very young children may need a hand on the steepest sections.
Are there blueberries on Streaked Mountain?
Yes. Wild blueberry bushes cover the granite slopes and produce well in late July and August. Bring a container and plan to spend some time picking on the way up or down.
Is there still a fire tower on Streaked Mountain?
No. The fire tower was removed years ago. The concrete base and footings are still visible on the summit, but the tower itself is gone. Communication towers now stand near the top.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on the trail. The granite provides good traction, though the steepest sections may be challenging for very small dogs. Keep dogs under control near other hikers on the narrow summit.
For more hiking in the Oxford Hills area, see our guide to Tumbledown Mountain in the western mountains.
