Brown Mountain-North Trail, Acadia National Park, Hancock County, ME

This summit trail begins at “Brown Mountain” arrow sign off old roadbed alongside Rt 198 and after climbing the side of Norumbega, follows its ridge in somewhat eastern inclination. Trail is deeply wooded and dark at the beginning, and its cairns are slightly difficult to find with all the moss and plentiful pine needles. Some sections here are steep, and as path begins to climb there appear to be some steps in poor condition. Width of tread is debatable as the path is not so defined, and as it becomes more level nearing ridge of Norumbega, one must hunt for cairns poking just above heavy brush. Near the summit, the trail starts to cross flat granite outcroppings until intersecting marked summit trail.

Distance (e.g., miles)

1.8 miles

Route (e.g. trail)

From the summit of Norumbega Mtn. (Brown Mtn.), down north side across Rt. 198 near stream, up slope to Giant Slide Trail.

Significance

The historic trail system of Acadia National Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognized for its national significance and ties to the history of Mount Desert Island and establishment of the park. The system's period of significance starts in 1844 and ends in 1942. The listing encompasses 109 trails traversing 117 miles on Mount Desert Island (some extending outside the park) and includes 18 memorial plaques, 12 viewpoints, and unique engineering features.

NRHP Property ID

100007602

ACAD Trails ID

521

Authoritative Source

Microsoft Access database used in preparation of report Pathmakers: Cultural Landscape Report for the Historic Hiking Trail System of Mount Desert Island by Coffin Brown, Margaret, Jim Vekasi, et. al. U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Washington, DC (2006); accessed June 2024.