Backpacking the Bigelows: 2-Day Strenuous Adventure

Backpacking the Bigelows: 2-Day Strenuous Adventure

Join us for a challenging and rewarding 2-day backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail through Maine’s Bigelow Range. We’ll cover about 22–24 miles with big climbs, rugged terrain, and some of the most beautiful views in New England.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Little Bigelow Trailhead to Horns Pond (~11–12 miles, 7–9 hrs)
• Start at Little Bigelow Trailhead (East Flagstaff Road) around 8:30 AM.
• Summit Little Bigelow Mountain (steady climb with Flagstaff Lake views).
• Lunch along the ridge, then continue through the rugged boulder fields of Safford Notch.
• Push up to Bigelow West Peak (~3,800–4,000 ft gain total).
• Finish with a short descent to Horns Pond Campsite, where we’ll set up camp, filter water, and cook dinner.

Day 2 – Horns Pond back to Trailhead (~11–12 miles, 6–9 hrs)
• Early breakfast and pack-up, then climb back to West Peak.
• Retrace our steps through Safford Notch and descend via Little Bigelow Ridge.
• Lunch with lake views before finishing the hike back to the trailhead mid-afternoon.

Trip Notes
• Mileage: ~22–24 miles total.
• Difficulty: Strenuous – expect steep climbs, long mileage, rugged scrambles, and exposure to wind/weather on the ridge.
• Camping: At Horns Pond Campsite (lean-tos, tent pads, water, caretaker). No camping on the ridge.
• Water: Reliable at Horns Pond and some streams lower down. Limited on the ridge — carry 2–3L from camp.
• Weather: The Bigelow ridge is exposed — wind, fog, or storms can roll in quickly. Be prepared with layers and rain gear.

Transportation

It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from Portland to the trailhead. Parking is free but fills up quickly, so carpooling is encouraged. We’ll coordinate rides from Portland or along the way. Plan on leaving early morning on Day 1 and returning to Portland the evening of Day 2. A big breakfast stop on the way up is highly recommended!