Cold Brook Trail, Acadia National Park, Hancock County, ME

An easy, moderately used woodland path beginning at pumping station and southern end of Long Pond parking and heading west to Gilley Field. Trail begins just after beginning of Great Pond Trail and ascends short slope to 4-6’ tread through area that was probably old logging road. Tread is bumpy and full of exposed roots and mixture of gravel, rocks, organics - similar to stream bed. Only constructed feature is a 1984 YCC bridge with two-cedar stringers and redwood plank decking. This path is vital connector in loop system of Mansell Mountain trails. KJ, DK, SB, MB

Historical Context

Shown on the 1893 Rand map, may have been a logging road to "Brown's Mill."Described in the 1915 path guide as "From head of Great Pond to Gilley Field."Shown on 1916 path map given the #12.

Distance (e.g., miles)

0.4 miles

Route (e.g. trail)

From the Long Pond (Great Pond) pumping station to Gilley Field.

Latitude (decimal)

44.29841

Longitude (decimal)

-68.3547

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.

GNIS/GNS Feature ID

1911490

NRHP Property ID

100007602

ACAD Trails ID

117

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.

External URL2

https://edits.nationalmap.gov/apps/gaz-domestic/public/search/names