Bigelows! 4150' West Peak & 3810' North Peak

The goal was to do a loop hike using the Firewarden's trail, across the Bigelow ridge, descend to Horns Pond and complete the loop via the Horns Pond Trail. What a perfect day! Started clear and cool. The first 1.5 miles is pretty mellow, passing along the way Stratton Brook Pond, w/a view one way across the pond and the other to the Horns, or one of them. We also passed someone camping, still asleep in their hammock. The last mile or so to Bigelow Col was quite steep up some impressive and extensive rock steps of enormous rocks which didn't get there easily. At the Col we added .8 mile to the loop by continuing to Avery Peak. Paul was game and the day was too beautiful to miss it. We stopped just before breaching treeline to zip our pants legs back on and add another layer. The wind was incredible. Several times I could feel it lifting the edge of my cap and had I not readjusted, could have been blown right off. We were rewarded w/360° views w/Flagstaff Lake one way and Sugarloaf the other. I was pleased we weren't also surrounded by towers and ski runs. We investigated the foundation of the old firetower and then descended. In just under a mile we were at West Peak , also above treeline and higher than Avery but much less windy. Stopped for lunch at a sunny spot along the ridge and easily ascended the Horns where we could see where we started at Stratton Brook Pond as well as where we were headed, Horns Pond. Serene Horns Pond was a perfect spot for a short break. The decent was pleasant and gradual, often on a soft bed of needles. During the day, being that we were only 30 or so miles from the border, we encountered many Canadians enjoying Maine's great mountains. And many friendly dogs, which I always enjoy. All in all it was an excellent day of great trail and views and enjoyable conversation and company w/Paul, who said this was his first real hike but who clearly is strong and fit w/a good mindset, a born hiker.

About 12.5 miles. Will ascend the firewarden's trail to stunning above treeline West Peak, gaining 1700' in the last 1.5 miles on well constructed trail. Continue across the wooded ridge to North Horn and descend to Horns Pond, completing the loop down the Horns Pond trail. I fully expect no one to sign up since it's on up here in Maine, but hey!, don't leave me in the lurch on this varied and beautiful trail of 360° views of the western Maine mts and Flagstaff Lake, classic Horns Pond, fall foliage, and the omnipresent scent of fir. Bring sturdy boots, a light fleece, wind/rain shell, 2 liters of water, snacks and lunch. It will be early fall, so a light cap and gloves and leg covering may add to comfort at treeline and across the ridge. 9/30/18 will be alternate day in case of bad weather, though a nice loop hike can be made via the AT and the Horns Pond trail, avoiding the exposed peaks.