Hiking Bald Mountain and Speckled Mountain in Milton Township
Name: Bald Mountain and Speckled Mountain
Location: Milton Township
Distance: Varies, read trail descriptions below
Terrain: Dirt path, rocky path, rock scrambles, large granite slabs, loose gravel, ledges.
Difficulty: Moderate
Pets: Allowed
If you’re looking for a quiet Western Maine hike with fantastic views—look no further than Bald and Speckled Mountains. Adventurers can tackle the shorter Bald Mountain Loop Trail, which provides great views of nearby mountains and ponds, or continue onto Speckled Mountain, which rewards hikers with impressive Western Maine views for a moderate effort.
In this blog post, I will share everything you need to know before hiking both Bald and Speckled Mountains—including how to access the trailhead, parking information, trail descriptions, the best time to visit, as well as several insider tips.
Preparing to Hike Bald Mountain and Speckled Mountain
Check the weather forecast to ensure safe conditions
Research trail information and conditions
Pack all the hiking essentials, such as water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit
Wear season-appropriate footwear and clothing
Click here to view my favorite pieces of hiking gear
If bringing a pup, be sure to bring a leash and poop bags
Directions and Parking Information for Bald Mountain and Speckled Mountain
Driving Directions from Route 232
Click here for Google Maps directions from Route 232 to the trailhead. Please note that the trailhead for this hike is named “Little Concord Pond State Park” in Google Maps. It’s also important to note that once you turn off the South Rumford Road, you’ll be driving on dirt roads and you won’t have any cell phone service, so be sure to bring a Maine gazetteer with you!
Essentially, you’re going to drive on Route 232 until it intersects with the end of the South Rumford Road in Rumford. Then, instead of continuing “left” on the South Rumford Road, you’re going to take a “right” onto Concord Pond Road. You’ll come to the intersection of Concord Pond Road and Redding Road and take Redding Road. Continue straight and the trailhead will be on your left in under a mile or so.
Parking Information
There is a very small dirt parking lot located across the road from the trailhead that can fit a handful of cars (if everyone parks straight). If the lot is full, you may have to park on the side of the road. There is no public restroom available at the trailhead.
Bald Mountain and Speckled Mountain Trail Descriptions
Unfortunately, I have not been able to find a detailed trail map for this hike online. But I will do my best to provide accurate trail descriptions below based on my own personal hiking experience.
Bald Mountain Loop Trail (2.4 miles, moderate)
The first 0.6 miles of the Bald Mountain Loop Trail is a gradual, wide ATV trail that brings hikers to Little Concord Pond. From here, follow signs and blue blazes for the Bald Mountain Trail. The remaining portion of trail ascends steeply over large boulders and rock ledges and through dense forest before reaching the rocky summit of Bald Mountain.
Speckled Mountain Trail (2.4 miles, moderate)
The Speckled Mountain Trail intersects with the Bald Mountain Trail near the summit of Bald Mountain. You’ll come to a sign that will indicate which direction to go to continue onward to Speckled Mountain. This trail begins with a steady descent between the two mountains on rocky trail followed by a steep, rocky incline that continues all the way to the summit of Speckled Mountain. There are several outlooks along the way that provide views of nearby mountains and lakes.
The Summit of Bald Mountain
The summit of Bald Mountain provides great views of the Spruce Mountain wind turbines, Shagg Pond, and small nearby Western Maine mountains. There are plenty of scenic spots to relax and take in the view.
The Summit of Speckled Mountain
The summit of Speckled Mountain offers panoramic views of Western Maine mountains and lakes and beyond—Whitecap, Old Speck, Tumbledown, Concord Pond, Mount Zircon, Mount Abram, Sunday River, etc. On a clear day, you can see the White Mountains.
Insider Tips for Hiking Bald Mountain and Speckled Mountain
Best time to visit: July through October to avoid mud season and black flies.
Cell phone service is limited in this area, so be sure to either share your itinerary with a loved one or carry a satellite communication device in case of an emergency.
Rock climbing is permitted on Bald Mountain, so don’t be startled if you hear people exploring the cliffs below you.
Best nearby eats:
Le Mu Eats: a cozy main street restaurant that offers comfort food with South East Asian influences (noodles, pho, Vietnamese coffee, Thai iced tea, etc.)
Gemini Cafe and Bakery: a lively cafe that offers delicious sandwiches on fresh bread and homemade pastries and desserts.
Kowloon Village: a casual Chinese restaurant with generous portions, good prices, and friendly staff.
Leave no Trace
When it comes to enjoying time outdoors, remember the golden rule: Leave No Trace. It’s as simple as picking up after yourself, staying on the trails, and leaving nature just as beautiful as you found it. By practicing Leave No Trace, you help preserve the magic of Maine for future adventurers to enjoy, so everyone can keep enjoying the same beautiful, wild world we love.
Love hiking in Maine? Check out all of our favorite Maine hiking trails.
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With love,
My Maine
