Dead River Trailhead to Great Pond Mountain Summit

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Yes, but inform someone of your plan and check weather. Carry water, a map, and a means to call for help; cell service is spotty in parts of the Wildlands.

Q: Is there water along the trail?

No reliable water sources are documented on the trail; plan to carry enough water for the round trip.

Q: Is the summit hike suitable for kids?

The Dead River portion is beginner-friendly; the summit ascent via Stuart Gross is moderate and should be supervised for children; pace and fatigue management are key.

Q: Do I need a permit for day use?

No permit required for day use.

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Overview

About This Trail

Dead River Trail is an easy, wide gravel path, 2.5 miles to the Dead River Gate trailhead. To reach Great Pond Mountain’s summit, add the Stuart Gross Trail for a total ~7 miles with about 850 ft of elevation gain. The final climb is steeper and exposed near the bald summit. High reward for the effort, with wildlife and broad views once you top out.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy on Dead River Trail; moderate overall when including the summit ascent via Stuart Gross

Trail Highlights

Summit bald with expansive views toward Acadia, Camden Hills, and Schoodic Mountain; tranquil Dead River shoreline and diverse Maine wildlife

Insider Tips

• Combine Dead River with Stuart Gross for the full summit. • Arrive early on weekends to secure parking; Hatchery lot is a reliable backup. • Pack snacks and use trekking poles for the ascent; expect a steeper finish to the bald summit.

Best Season to Hike

Summer and fall

Hiking Tips

Carry at least 2 liters of water.
Wear sturdy footwear; trekking poles help on the ascent.
Start early to avoid crowds and take advantage of parking at the Hatchery if needed.
Keep food secured and make noise to deter bears.
Stay on the Dead River Trail; the Stuart Gross connector has bedrock sections that require attention.

Family Info

Suitable for families on Dead River Trail; summit hike is moderate and should be supervised with children

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 7 miles

Elevation Gain: 850 ft

Duration: Dead River Trail: 1-2 hours. Summit route: 3-5 hours total.

Difficulty: Easy on Dead River Trail; moderate overall when including the summit ascent via Stuart Gross

Route Type: Out-and-back; potential loop via Stuart Gross to the summit

Surface: Dead River Trail: wide gravel; Stuart Gross Trail: footpath with bedrock sections

Getting There

Trailhead: Dead River Trailhead, Dead River Gate on Don Fish Road, Orland, ME; GPS: 24 Don Fish Trail, Orland, ME

Parking: Large lot at Dead River Trailhead; additional parking at Craig Brook National Fish Hatchery

Fills Up: Usually available at Dead River Trailhead; Hatchery parking always available

Requirements

Permit Required

No permit required for day use

Fees: Free

Shuttle Available

No shuttle service listed for this trailhead

Trail Rules

Dogs: Leashed dogs allowed on Dead River Trail; follow park rules; not advised on exposed summit sections

Biking: Dead River Trail: biking permitted; Stuart Gross Trail: footpath only

Trail Markers: Well-marked on Dead River; Stuart Gross has cairns and signage

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No reliable water sources on the trail; carry sufficient water

Shade: Mix of shade and sun on Dead River; summit exposed

Cell Service: Partial coverage in some areas; not reliable at the summit

Hazards:

Carry bear spray where permitted; secure food; traction aids for icy sections; watch footing on bedrock in the Stuart Gross segment

Emergency: Acadia National Park rangers; local dispatch; Orland EMS

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Can get crowded during peak seasons

Peak Times: Summer weekends and holiday weekends

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Dead River section is user-friendly; summit ascent involves exposed, uneven terrain; not fully ADA accessible

Family Notes:

Suitable for families on Dead River Trail; summit hike is moderate and should be supervised with children

Nearby Facilities

Craig Brook National Fish Hatchery nearby; Orland amenities; Hatchery parking space often available

FAQs

Are there bears on this trail?

Yes. Bear activity has been reported in the area; store food securely, make noise while hiking, and be cautious at dawn and dusk.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Is there water along the trail?

Is the summit hike suitable for kids?

Do I need a permit for day use?

📖 yournpguide.com 📖 mainetrailfinder.com 📖 mainebyfoot.com 📖 greatpondtrust.org 📖 acadiavisitor.com 📖 wheree.com 📖 nrcm.org ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Dead River Trailhead, Great Pond Mountain Wildlands