Puzzle Mountain (Maine)

Puzzle Mountain
Puzzle Mountain as seen from West Baldpate
Highest point
Elevation	3,133 ft (955 m)
Prominence	1,201 ft (366 m)^[1]
Coordinates	44°32′49″N 70°47′35″W / 44.5468999°N 70.7930889°W / 44.5468999; -70.7930889
Geography
Puzzle Mountain Oxford County, Maine, U.S.
Parent range	Mahoosuc Range
Topo map	USGS Mahoosuc Range
Climbing
Easiest route	Hiking, class 1, 3.2 mi (5.1 km) ascent via Grafton Loop Trail

Puzzle Mountain, situated in Oxford County, Maine, forms part of the eastern section of the Mahoosuc Range. The mountain features a false peak, known as Little Puzzle Mountain, located northwest of the main summit. Additionally, its location within the Androscoggin River watershed contributes to its ecological importance.^[2]

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Trails

The summit of the mountain can be accessed from the southern trail head of the Grafton Loop Trail. The initial miles of the trail have a relatively low incline and utilize old logging roads for switchbacks. At about two miles, the trail makes a sharp turn to the left and begins to climb at a steeper grade. At about 2.4 miles, the trail reaches exposed granite boulders and ledges, with views of the Sunday River Ski Area, Grafton Notch, and the distant Presidential Range. The summit of Puzzle Mountain is at 3.2 miles and provides views in all directions as far as Sugarloaf Mountain.^{[citation needed]} The trail takes approximately three hours and thirty minutes to summit.^{[citation needed]}

The Woodsum Loop, nicknamed the "Loopette Trail", was built to access the various previously unreachable false peaks of the mountain. The Woodsum Loop feeds into the established Grafton Loop Trail. The total route is 7.6 miles, encompassing the entirety of the loop and back.^{[citation needed]}

Trail Experience

The blue-blazed trail crosses an ATV trail and a logging road before gradually ascending alongside a stream. In spring, lush greenery and wildflowers can be seen alongside the trail. Approximately 0.75 miles (1.2 km) into the hike, a register box provided by the Maine Appalachian Trail Club (MATC) is available for hikers to log their visit. The trail covers diverse terrain, including deciduous forests and rocky outcrops interspersed with moss and pine. Various viewpoints look out onto the surrounding landscape, including the Presidential Range to the west.^{[citation needed ]}

Trail Tips and Amenities

Puzzle Mountain is noted for its varied landscapes and panoramic views, appealing to hikers of various skill levels. Visitors are recommended to use appropriate hiking equipment, such as hiking poles, due to the rugged terrain. The mountain's trails are accessible to dogs, provided they remain on a leash.

References

^ "Puzzle Mountain, Maine". Peakbagger.com. Retrieved 2012-05-06.
^ Nation, Peg; Brenda Cummings (2005). Maine Mountain Guide (9th ed.). Boston: Appalachian Mountain Club Books. pp. 189–191 + Topographical map 7: Mahoosuc Range. ISBN 9781929173693.