When it comes to hiking Saddleback Mountain in Rangeley, Maine, the shortest path between two points—the parking lot and the summit—is a ski resort. The two-mile hike from Saddleback Maine trades the soothing cool of a forested trail for the steep and sunbaked ski trails. While I prefer to hike Saddleback via the Berry Picker’s Trail or the Appalachian Trail, this route, rich with wildflowers and views, serves a purpose for anyone on a shorter timeframe.
Distance: 2 miles to the Saddleback Mountain summit, elevation 4,120 feet; 3.5 miles to The Horn summit, elevation 4,041 feet. Time: 2-3 hours for Saddleback only; 3-5 hours to add The Horn Difficulty: Weekend Warriors Recommended Gear: hiking boots or trail runners; trekking poles (optional); sunscreen