Hike to Deasey Mountain

The view from the top of Deasey Mountain.

NPS / R.Wang

Hike this out and back trail by following the International Appalachian Trail (IAT) up to the top of Deasey Mountain (the tallest peak in the monument) for a 360-degree view of the surrounding landscape. To get to this scenic view, hike 10 mile round-trip with an elevation gain of 1,593ft / 485m. A historic fire lookout building, constructed by the Maine Forest Service in 1929, is located at the summit. Camping is not permitted on top of Deasey Mountain. Pack in your own water or bring a filter system to stay hydrated. There is no potable water.

This hike requires fording a river. Please review the safety information about stream crossings before arriving.

Trail Details

• Start at the Wassataquoik Gate Parking Lot. The parking lot is a dirt and gravel area with a vault toilet.
• After you park, hike north past the gate for approximately 0.3 miles until you reach a trail (the IAT) to your right and a sign for the Wassataquoik Ford.
• Turn right to connect onto the IAT segment that leads you to the bank of Wassataquoik Stream. Hike approximately 890ft to arrive at the stream. Look for the signs marked "Ford" on either side of the bank for designated crossing locations.
• Follow safe stream crossing practices when crossing the ford. If you do not feel comfortable, stop here and turn around. A safe hike is a successful hike.
• After you cross the Wassataquoik Stream, look for the small IAT signs to follow the IAT for approximately 1.5 miles until you reach a large boulder named Earl's Erratic. Be prepared to cross a large beaver dam and possible flooded areas along the way. 
• Continue past Earl's Erratic for approximately 1.4 miles to arrive at the IAT and Ed Werler Trail junction. Continue on the IAT by veering left at the junction. Expect muddy, rocky, and slippery surfaces.
• After hiking approximately 0.7 miles north from the junction, you will arrive at the site of the old fire warden's cabin. Be aware that this building is not structurally safe and is collapsing.
• Hike past the cabin to start the final steep ascent (approximately 0.8 miles) to the top of Deasey Mountain. This portion is very steep and follows a trickling stream. Proceed carefully and check maps frequently to stay on trail.
• Once completing the steep trail, follow the signage slightly left to Deasey Mountain Fire Lookout for the summit view. (Continuing right will take you to Lunksoos Mountain.)
• Enjoy the views and hydrate before making your way back to the parking lot by retracing your steps the same way you came up.

Details

Duration

5-8 Hours

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Pets must be on a 6ft leash.

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Wassataquoik Gate Parking Lot

Wassataquoik Gate Parking Lot is the closest access point to hike to Deasey Mountain.

Reservations

No

Accessibility Information

The trail surface to the top of Deasey Mountain is uneven and mostly composed of dirt, rocks, gravel, and organic matter. A large stream crossing is required when you arrive at Wassataquoik Stream Ford. There are areas with deep mud, large boulders, exposed roots, and flooding. Trail may be narrow with brush and vegetation in some areas. There are no toilets after the parking lot.