Long Mountain Trail, Bethel
- Jill McMahon
- Oct 12
- 2 min read
I've done this hike with groups several times and can confidently say it's an ideal adventure for a range of ages, abilities, and dogs. Highlights include a large slab of rock near the top, perfect for lunch, and water aspects that follow a large section of the trail...when we're not in a drought.
Long Mountain Trail is a 5.6-mile, moderate loop with views of Western Maine and the White Mountains. The large parking lot, located at 1268 Vernon Street in Bethel, also serves as parking for a mountain bike trail network called Bacon Hill. As you start out from the trailhead, you'll see signs straight ahead for Bacon Hill. Be sure to go left here, following the wooden sign for Long Mountain.
The trail begins on a flat section of long bog bridges, before connecting with Mill Brook. I'll show this hike in different seasons - fall offers stunning colors, but spring provides hidden waterfalls.
At 0.5 miles, go left, crossing a bridge over the brook before continuing on the trail to the right. As you ascend, you'll pass an old stone foundation on the right, followed by streams, cascades, and pools guiding the path.
At 1.0 miles, reach the start of the loop and go left, following it clockwise. The trail continues to climb, leading to the first overlook at 1.9 miles, North Ledge.
Continue further, reaching the outer edge of the loop, before heading northwest to the even more impressive South Ledge Overlook. This is the large open ledge of rock, looking out to Western Maine, Mount Washington, Mount Adams, and the Presidential Range. It's also a great spot for lunch, and offers enough space for a large group.
Continue on until completing the loop at 5.0 miles, then go left to return to the parking lot.
This truly is one of my favorite easier hikes...amazing that I'm just writing about it for the first time! I hope you get to enjoy it with fall colors or spring waterfalls. I'm sure it's gorgeous in the snowy months as well, and I do plan to hike it this winter.