Hiking Rattlesnake Mountain in the Scenic Sebago Lakes Region of Maine
Name: Rattlesnake Mountain
Location: Raymond and Casco, Maine
Distance: 2.5 miles, out and back
Terrain: Dirt path, gravel, rocky, uneven ground, roots.
Elevation gain: 623 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Pets: Not Allowed
Rattlesnake Mountain is a locally owned and maintained hiking trail that provides both solo hikers and families with a nice, gradual climb and rewarding Eastern-facing views of Crescent lake and surrounding mountains.
In this blog post, I share everything you need to know before hiking Rattlesnake Mountain—including how to access the trailhead, parking information, trail descriptions, the best time to visit, as well as several insider tips and the best nearby eats.
Prepare to Hike Rattlesnake 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
Directions and Parking Information for Rattlesnake Mountain
Directions
The main trailhead for Rattlesnake Mountain is located off Route 85 in Raymond. Click here to get driving directions from Google Maps.
Parking Information
The parking lot for Rattlesnake Mountain is extremely small and comprised of dirt. There is enough room for about 5 cars. The parking lot is not plowed in the Winter and there are no public restrooms available.
Rattlesnake Mountain Rules
Trail is closed April 1st-May 1st
Parking only permitted in parking lot
No loud music
No bikes, ATVs, snowmobiles, or any other vehicles
Open sunrise to sunset
No fires
No camping
Carry in/carry out
No dogs allowed
Rattlesnake Mountain Trail Descriptions
Bri-Mar Trail (2.5 miles, out and back, moderate)
The Bri-Mar trail begins in a grassy field and then moves into the woods, where it starts to incline. About 0.3 miles in, there’s a fork in the trail. It really doesn’t matter which way you choose, as they both meet right back up with the trail. After this fork, the trail gets gradually harder, climbing and then flattening out until you reach the first small viewpoint, about 0.7 miles in.
In between the first and second viewpoint, the trail stays relatively flat. The second viewpoint is a great spot to sit and take in the views, as there are no additional viewpoints. The trail does continue for about 0.4 miles, coming to an anti-climatic “dead end”. It is possible that there was a view here at some point, but it has definitely overgrown in time.
The Summit of Rattlesnake Mountain
Although not technically the summit, the second viewpoint provides great views of Crescent Lake, Raymond Community Forest, Pismere Mountain, as well as other nearby lakes and mountains.
Insider Tips for Visiting Rattlesnake Mountain
The best time to visit: June through October
Times to avoid visiting: From April 1st to May 1st, as the trail is closed
Cell phone service may be limited and/or spotty while hiking
Best nearby eats: Webbs Mills Store (takeout pizza, sandwiches, drinks, and snacks with limited outdoor seating), Kindred Farms Market and Bakery (takeout sandwiches, desserts, snacks, and drinks with outdoor seating), Good Life Market (high-quality, fresh sandwiches, snacks, groceries, and alcohol with indoor and outdoor seating).
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.
Interested in more Maine hiking information and tips? You can find them all here.
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With love,
My Maine
