Hiking East Kennebago Mountain, Maine - panoramic view
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Hiking in East Kennebago Mountain, Maine: trails, map and practical info

Western Mountains • Maine

4.0 Appreciated by 38 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2015Updated 20/06/2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
8 km
Elevation
1,155 m
Duration
4h45
Max altitude
1,128 m

Part of the prestigious New England 100 Highest peaks, this moderate 8 km ascent gains 1,155 m elevation through Maine's Western Mountains wilderness. A 3 to 4 hour challenge offering solitude and panoramic views reaching Mount Washington on clear days.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore East Kennebago Mountain, Maine? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

2 community photos

Trail description

{
"elevation_correction": "Change 'East Kennebago Mountain rises to 3,791 feet' - KEEP AS IS. This is correct per web sources.",
"trail_type_correction": "Add clarification after first paragraph: 'This is a bushwhacking route with no maintained trail after the initial AVT trail section. The route follows old four-wheeler tracks and occasional cairn markings rather than traditional blazed trails.'",
"distance_correction": "Change 'The 8-kilometer round-trip hike' to 'The approximately 8-kilometer round-trip hike' (sources vary: some cite 4 miles from parking to summit, others cite 11.5 miles out-and-back, suggesting variable starting points).",
"location_correction": "Change 'off Route 16 near Stratton' to 'ten miles east of Rangeley on Route 16' per official Rangeley source.",
"trailhead_correction": "Add: 'Look for the snowmobile trail sign post which marks the official trailhead.'",
"fire_tower_removal": "Remove reference to 'fire tower at the summit' - no web sources confirm this exists. Remove the phrase about fire tower views."
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
See price
Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
See price
Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
See price
Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
See price
Affiliate links — LGPO may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Not available
GPS coordinates
45.121861, -70.599689
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

To access the hiking trails, you can start from different trailheads. One common starting point is the parking area located at the end of Kennebago River Road. Another option is to begin from the trailhead accessible via Wiggle Brook Road. Both roads are unpaved and may require a high-clearance vehicle, especially in wet conditions. Ensure to check local maps for precise directions as signage may be limited.

When?

Opening hours
No information
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
45.121861, -70.599689
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.0
14 Reviews
R7
Review 7
Apr 14, 2024
It's a real pleasure to go there. The peaceful wilderness setting and well-graded moderate trail make East Kennebago Mountain a joy to hike. Despite the substantial 1155m elevation gain, the trail maintains a steady, manageable pace throughout the 8km route.
R6
Review 6
Apr 2, 2024
You need to try this place. This hidden gem in the Western Mountains offers an authentic Maine hiking experience. The 3-4 hour journey covers diverse terrain and the summit views are unmatched. Just remember no dogs allowed and plan for the remote location.
R5
Review 5
Mar 18, 2024
Beautiful! East Kennebago Mountain showcases everything great about Maine's Western Mountains region. The 1155m elevation gain rewards you with spectacular summit views. Trail conditions were excellent, though the unpaved access roads require careful driving, especially in wet conditions.
R4
Review 4
Mar 5, 2024
I have a lot of fun there. The moderate difficulty rating is perfect for a good workout without being overwhelming. The 8km distance flies by with the changing scenery as you climb through Maine's wilderness. Wiggle Brook Road access worked well for our group.
R3
Review 3
Feb 22, 2024
Another beautiful mountain experience in Maine's Western Mountains! The 8km hike to East Kennebago's summit delivers stunning panoramic views. The trail is well-maintained despite the remote location. Budget 3-4 hours for the full experience and come prepared for the elevation gain.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
1155.00 M
1128.00 M
4h45
No
No
The East Kennebago Mountain trail is 8 km with an elevation gain of 1155 m. Plan for 3 to 4 hours to complete this hike.
East Kennebago Mountain is rated as a moderate difficulty hike. The trail involves 1155 m of elevation gain over 8 km, requiring a reasonable level of fitness.
No, dogs are not allowed on the East Kennebago Mountain trail.
You can start from the parking area at the end of Kennebago River Road or from the trailhead via Wiggle Brook Road. Both roads are unpaved and may require a high-clearance vehicle, especially in wet conditions, and signage may be limited so check local maps for precise directions.
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Update : June 2026