Piazza Rock via Appalachian Trail

Me below Piazza Rock. Photo by Jaime Gagnon.

The jaw-dropping reward at the outer end of this hike evokes wonder for nature’s majestic monuments. Soak in a serene path before reaching this geological marvel; a massive slab of stone jutting out from a pile of supporting boulders, like a roof overhang from The Flinstones.

This trail was one of the sweetest surprises - and it wasn't initially on my list. I was wrapping up the final hikes for my trail guide, Dog Hiking New England, and Rangeley, Maine was the last area I needed to cover. In sharing my plan to hike Bald Mountain with my friend Anna, she suggestd another hike she loved near Rangeley, Piazza Rock. Her 4-mile hike seemed much more sensible than my 2-mile Bald Mountain hike, given the long drive to Rangeley, so I made a last-minute change. That decision led me to the most fascinating landmark I’ve seen since Madison Rock, one of the largest glacial erratics in North America.

I did this final trail-guide hike with my friend Jaime, which was fitting since I’ll be joining her last 4,000-footer hike for The New England 67 this July. Sadly, my dog had to stay home on antibiotics, but she would have loved this relativey easy hike with its water features and quiet trails.

The parking area for Piazza Rock is located 9 miles south of Rangeley center off Route 4. From the spacious lot marked with a wooden AT sign, you’ll cross the busy road to pick up the white-blazed Appalachian Trail.

The hike begins with an easy descent to Sandy River, where you’ll cross a short footbridge over a narrow channel bordered by stone walls.

Beyond this point, the trail veers left and climbs a short, steep section. Besides the brief ascent to Piazza Rock, this is the most challenging part of the hike. The rest is fairly easy, making this hike suitable for all skill levels. With a lean-to located near the top, this is a fun introductory hike on the Appalachian Trail and ideal for families, given the intriguing rock formations and caves to explore at the top.

Along the peaceful, meandering route, there are numerous stream crossings that your dog will love. At 1.8 miles, reach the final stream, marked by a sign for the AT with caves to the right; turn left towards Piazza Rock. This short spur, indicated by blue blazes, follows the stream and then bears left, leading to the remarkably large stone slab. Beneath Piazza Rock lies a flat boulder, perfect for enjoying a snack while marveling at the geological wonder, floating above like a hovering spaceship.

For more adventure, explore the large crevice within the boulders supporting Piazza Rock, by climbing right through them to the top!

This narrow passage requires some upper body strength, but it rewards you with a gorgeous area of moss-covered rocks around and over the top of the rock. While there are easier ways to reach the top via more gradual side trails to its left, none are as fulfilling.