Hike Deasey Ponds Trail

Relax on the viewing platform at the end of Deasey Trail.

NPS/Gin Majka

Deasey Ponds is an out and back hike. It is one of the shorter and easier to get to hikes available within Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. Deasey Ponds Trail is 1.4miles / 2.3km round trip with an elevation gain of 72ft/21m. Be prepared for an abundance of biting and stinging bugs especially during late spring and summer months!

Trail Details

• Start the hike at the gravel parking area just west of Deasey Ponds Trailhead. There is a vault toilet at the parking lot.
• Once parked, safely walk east back towards the trailhead start. The trail will begin with a dirt and gravel surface. Be aware of larger rocks on the trail.
• As you continue on, the trail will come to a set of log steps. Notice the sounds of the forest here-you may begin to hear the sounds of water.
• After the steps, continue on the dirt and gravel trail, which leads to a slightly raised narrow wooden section of the trail. This section of the trail is constructed with logs to help keep your feet dry.
• Follow the dirt and gravel trail to a charming view of Deasey Ponds. There is a wooden viewing platform with built in benches here for you to sit and observe the landscape. 

Reminder: Carry out all trash and food waste (fruit peels, shells, etc.). Do not feed the wildlife.

Looking To Lengthen Your Hike?

Just south of the Deasey Ponds Trail parking lot is the start of another short out and back trail that brings you to a view of a wetland ecosystem formed by Sandbank Stream. This trail is 1 mile round trip and has 47ft of elevation gain. If you do decide to hike Deasey Ponds and add on this segment, estimated total length is 2.4 miles.

• You will have to cross Swift Brook Road (south of the parking lot) to find the trailhead. Watch for traffic before crossing.
• Follow the rock steps to a gravel and dirt trail that meanders through a boreal forest and along an esker.
• You will arrive at a steep set of stairs made with logs. Continue down and turn right to get to the wetland viewing area. (If you make a left, you will end up at the Katahdin Woods and Waters NM welcome sign and Loop Road Gate that you passed on your way to the parking lot.)

Details

Duration

45-90 Minutes

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

All pets must be on a leash. Learn more about pet safety on the website.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Deasey Pond Trailhead

Park at the Deasey Pond Trailhead parking lot and walk slightly east to find the start of the trailhead. Beware of vehicle traffic.

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Check current conditions before visiting.

Accessibility Information

Expect an uneven surface on this trail. The trail is predominantly composed of dirt, gravel, and rocks. It can be muddy at times. There are steps made of wooden logs along the way, as well as narrow wooden platforms that make part of the trail. Large ferns and vegetation may create narrow areas on the trail.