Trails Used
Appalachian Trail
Trail Conditions
Notes
Quite a bit of mud. There are many rocks to step on to avoid much of the mud. Water running down ledges uphill from the lean-to spur. Standing water in many spots. Nevertheless, there are many stretches of dry trail. The open ledges on East Baldpate were mostly dry that made for safe footing. I would not like to hike these ledges during a rainstorm or when icy. Follow the many cairns on the open ledges and observes the contours on the tilted rock slabs for easiest passage. The summit of West Peak is wooded but there are good viewing ledges on the north side. Decent views from the open areas in the col between the two peaks. The best views are from the open ledges on ascent of East Peak and at the summit of East Peak. Lots of Trout Lilies in the fairly level stretch of trail starting at about 2,600 feet. There are some Red Trillium in the same area. Painted Trillium at lower elevations. Hobblebush is also in bloom. Met a couple from Wilsons Mills ME who had hiked to Table Rock. Didn't see any other hikers until I was returning from East Peak. I met Blackout a northbound AT hiker from Tyler Texas. Soon after, I met a day hiker to East Peak from Reston, Virginia. Saw no other hikers on the trail. Had both summits to myself.
Parking
Plenty of room in the large lot just off route 26. Serves as trailhead parking for Old Spec, Table Rock, and the Baldpates. Fee lot except for Mainers 65 years and older. Outhouses available.
Water Crossings
The brook near route 26 is crossed on a double plank bridge. Many small brooks are easily crossed.
Wildlife
Some black flies on lower half of trail in the PM. I ingested one when I stopped to drink water. Watch out for the yellow jackets in the alpine area on East Peak.