Located near Stow in Western Maine, this out-and-back hike is just over five miles with an elevation gain of 1,257 feet. The summit includes spectacular views of Evan's Notch and Baldface Mountain...which is another one of my favorite hikes, although it's much longer. The most thrilling part of Blueberry Mountain is Rattlesnake Pool - a crystal clear, aquamarine swimming hole that's fed be a small waterfall. Many brave the frigid water by jumping into the pool for an exhilarating dip in the warmer months. I've done this once with my kids, but now I just enjoy the beauty of this remarkable landmark.
We've hiked this family and dog-friendly mountain several times. The first was five years ago when our boys were 8 and 11 years old. Back then, we were just beginning to explore mountain hikes and it felt like a true adventure. Most recently, we did this hike on the final day of summer vacation. The boys are now 13 and 16, so our oldest drove us the hour and 40 minutes to the trailhead, since he now has his driver's permit, while our youngest was working through some business ideas for his apparel company from the back seat. Although they are older and much has changed, this was still an ideal family hike. It was also great for our dog, who really hates to be left behind.
Comparing photos from now and then highlights the passage of time and the incredible growth that can happen in just five years during youth. It also makes me grateful for raising kids in Maine and all of the beautiful outdoor spaces we've been able to explore together over the years.
The trailhead parking on Stone House Road can be reached from Route 302 or from the more scenic Route 113. Whichever route you choose, you will find parking along the shoulder of the road, leading up to the trailhead gate. Stone House Road feels more like a logging road as it's a bit rough with some potholes. Still, most cars should be fine...just don't attempt this in a tiny car or scooter.
From the gate, you'll follow the flat Shell Pond Road, which will lead you passed open fields with distant views of Baldface Mountain.
This picture is from our return trip, so the trail will be on the left side of the field during the beginning of your hike and Baldface will be behind you.
The first trailhead you will come to on this nice, gentle warmup is the White Cairn Trail on the left. This is a looping route for Blueberry Mountain and it connects with the Stone House Trail at the summit. This loop is a bit shorter at four miles, compared to the five mile out-and-back hike I'm describing in this post. It is a great option for younger kids and it's the route we took back in 2019 when our boys were younger. Both are great options! If you prefer the idea of this shorter loop, you can find directions on All Trails here.
I'll continue with the longer route, since this is what we did on our most recent hike. Continue past the White Cairn Trail and follow the sign for Rattlesnake Pool. At around 1/2 mile into your hike, you'll take a left at the sign for the Stone House Trail and Blueberry Ridge Trail. The trail leads into the woods as the hike starts to gain elevation. At 0.8 miles, you will arrive at signs for The Gorge and Rattlesnake Pool. Take a left towards Rattlesnake Pool (we will explore the gorge later). At just under one mile, you will reach a footbridge and stream for your dog to take a drink. Just beyond that, is the sign for Rattlesnake Pool on the right. We skipped the pool on our ascent, saving it for a reward at the end of the hike. Feel free to explore it at the beginning though...it's your adventure!
At just 2.2 miles, stay right at the rock cairn, then go left at the signs marking the junction between the Blueberry Ridge Trail and Stone House Trail. Continue following the cairns until you reach the sign for the Lookout Loop. This loop is somewhat challenging to navigate, but will wind you around the summit, offering spectacular views of the Speckled Mountain Wilderness. Keep your eyes on the cairns and you will be ok. We got off track several times, but it's pretty easy to find your way back to the trail.
At 2.8 miles, you will complete the Lookout Loop, arriving back at the sign where you started. From here, take a right, returning to the Stone House Trail. Follow the trail in the way you came, until arriving back at Rattlesnake Pool on the left, then take the short spur until you've reached the overlook to the pool. The hike down is a bit steep, so watch your step here.
If you're feeling brave, jump into the crystal clear waters. It's truly an experience. Here's a picture from Henry's first dip years ago. Goggles and all.
You may decide to just sit near the pool and absorb its magic. Pictures are helpful, but nothing compares to seeing this in person.
After leaving Rattlesnake Pool, you will soon arrive at the sign for The Gorge. Do take this quick spur, since the view from the footbrige over the gorge is quite impressive.
From here, you will return to Shell Pond Road with its glorious views of Baldface across wide open fields. There's nothing like a family hike that includes gorges, waterfalls, swimming holes, and open summits. I hope you'll enjoy it through the years as we have..and will hopefully continue to do.
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