Hike Perpendicular and Razorback Loop

The Perpendicular and Razorback Loop features a steep hike up to the summit of Mansell Mountain on the west side of Mount Desert Island. Although the trail and summit are mostly wooded, it is a quieter, strenuous hiking opportunity. The Perpendicular Trail was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) from 1933 to 1934. Flat boulders were laid end-to-end to form an easier walking path over the talus slope and rock steps were also added. The crew covered stones with moss and planted ferns to help them blend with their natural surroundings.

• Distance: 2.7 miles round trip

• Terrain: Forested paths, granite staircase, rocky trails, and rooted paths

Hike Description

• The hike starts on the Long Pond Trail, located at the far end of the parking lot.
• Walk .2 miles before reaching the junction of the Perpendicular Trail.
• Over 300 cut granite steps, a few iron rungs and a small ladder allows hikers to ascend steep slope of Mansell Mountain. There are a few views of Long Pond between the trees.
• Just before the trail turns away from the face, there is a short spur trail to an overlook of Beech Mountain, Long Pond and the outlying islands.
• The trail levels off in the woods before reaching the summit of Mansell Mountain. There are no views from the summit.
• Descend past the junction for the Mansell Mountain Trail before ending at the Razorback Trail.
• Turn left (south) on the Razorback Trail. The trail provides great views as it steeply descends along the ridge before entering the forest and ending at the Gilley Trail.
• Turn left on the Cold Brook Trail and continue onto the Long Pond Trail before ending at the parking lot.

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

This hike is 2.7 miles roundtrip. Duration, or how long a hike takes, depends on your pace, how frequently you stop, and the terrain. For an average pace, this hike takes 1 to 2 hours.

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. It is not recommended for pets, since there are many steep sections, stairs, iron rungs, and a ladder.

Activity Fee

No

Although this activity is free, a park entrance pass is required for all areas of the park from May 1 through October 31.

Location

Long Pond, Mansell Mountain

The Trailhead: Where to Begin

• Long Pond Trailhead

Getting to the Trailhead:

• By car: After reaching Mount Desert Island on ME Route 3, stay to the right to follow ME Route 102 toward the towns of Somesville and Southwest Harbor. Just after reaching Southwest Harbor, turn right on Seal Cove Road, then right on Long Pond Road to reach the south end of Long Pond and a parking area. The Long Pond Trail begins on the opposite side of the municipal water pumping station.
• By bus: There is no public transportation to this trailhead.
   

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

The Perpendicular and Razorback Loop is not accessible. The trails have uneven footing and hundreds of granite stairs. There are no accessible restrooms at the trailhead.

Perpendicular and Razorback Loop

Trail Safety Tips

• Check trail elevation profile before hiking.
• Bring a map, water, snacks, compass, and extra layers for unpredictable changes in weather.
• Reduce the chance of picking up ticks by staying in the center of the trail, and not stepping on soils and away from brush.
• Always do a tick check after visiting the park.
• Closed-toe, good traction shoes recommended because most trail surfaces are very unlevel. This trail has hundreds of granite stairs.