This is a great hike for a clear day, with beautiful views over Somes Sound of Northeast Harbor! The mountain is located between Somesville and Southwest Harbor, on the ‘quiet side’ of the island. It is challenging, but on this day it was cool and we took lots of breaks to catch up with our friends and take in the views, so that made it seem easier. I left the camera and just carried my phone; everyone else had small packs and hiking poles. I didn’t even bring water, which is not advised! There was plenty of water in the car, and I was fine with less to carry on a cool day, but it wasn’t smart.
It was so clear we could see all the way out past Baker Island.
what you need to know
This is a moderately challenging hike and takes 2-3 hours. Bring more water than you think you will need, and a snack. It is a loop.
Start and End
Just past Echo Lake, there is a left turn off of Rte 102 onto Fernald Point Road. You will see a sign for the golf club. Follow the road to the parking area. There is limited parking, so go early. We arrived before 9 am and had plenty of parking, but when we left the cars were parking in the street.
Directions
Walk up Flying Mountain toward Valley Cove and follow Valley Cove Trail along the water. There are glimpses of the Sound as you follow the trail around to Valley Peak Trail, and start climbing. This is the challenging portion, but it isn’t too far. Once you make it toward the top, you follow the ridge along Somes Sound and walk down the south side to the parking area.
NOTE
Do not hike after rainy days because the rocks are very slippery and it is not safe.
