Sargent Mountain; The Giant Slide

Hiking buddy: Becca

Weather: High 60s, sunny!

Mountains: Gilmore Peak and Sargent Mountain (Acadia National Park)
Elevations: 1,036ft (Gilmore) and 1,373ft (Sargent)
Ascent: The Giant Slide and Grandgent Trail
Descent: Northwest Trail and The Giant Slide
Miles of trail: 5.0

Total miles this year: 38.2

I was trying to think of what peak/trail to hike today, and I was torn between the Northwest Trail of Pemetic and The Giant Slide of Sargent... That's a tough decision to make, especially considering I haven't done either yet this year. With clouds scarce in the sky and the sun shining gloriously from above, I decided this would be the perfect day to show Becca The Giant Slide and the wonderful views from Sargent Mountain. The ravine of Pemetic will have to wait for another day...

So, a trail called The Giant Slide... what would you expect the trail to be like? 

I have to admit, when I first heard about the trail a few years ago, I assumed it was one large slanting rock face to scale up, or perhaps even slide down on your bumper. Not even close. 

Words and pictures will not do this trail any justice!

To start out, the trail is rather deceiving; quite easy and relatively flat, as it winds through a moss covered forest and atop a long section of planks; consecutive wooden bridges set high above the lichen covered and mossy landscape.

 Soon, you'll hear the rushing water, what a beautiful sound! 

The Giant Slide takes you along a ravine with Sargent Brook running straight down the middle. The trail takes you over, around, and under huge boulders and large rock slabs, even causing you to squeeze through a few crevices. Breathtaking waterfalls and clear mountain pools galore overtake your sight. Not to mention, the trail will have you crossing the brook numerous times. The moss covered rocks tend to be rather slippery, so step cautiously!

I love seeing all the trees and roots along the brook. The roots have done what they can to seep into the refreshing water. Seriously, my eyes are never bored on this hike; the sights are quite awe-inspiring and remarkable.

After almost 2 miles, the Grandgent Trail will branch off from The Giant Slide. The Grandgent Trail is probably one of the hardest hikes in Acadia National Park. In just 0.8 miles you scale two peaks. Dozens of granite steps, roots, and open rock faces combine to make this hike rather strenuous. It's an ass-kicker, excuse the language!

I might have forgotten to mention to Becca that we would be hiking two peaks today... but, then again, I completely forgot that the Grandgent Trail included Gilmore Peak. Minor detail, right? Ha. 

Once you've taken in the views to be seen from this peak, head down the trail towards Sargent Mountain. The trail takes you back into the forest as you descend a few hundred feet. Eventually, the trail will meet a split. There are many options, an easier route would be to take the Maple Springs Trail up to the summit. However, easy isn't really part of my hiking repertoire. Take a left to continue along the Grandgent Trail. 

After much moaning and groaning, the trail will eventually reach above tree level again. The view of The Sound can be quite beautiful. And, the moaning and groaning continues! But, the hard work is certainly worth it once you see the almost 360° panoramic views from Sargent's spectacular summit. 

Facing North, you have The Sound to your left, with Southwest Harbor and it's peaks towering above. Eagle Lake is to your right, with views of Cadillac Mountain, the Nubble and Bubbles, Pemetic Mountain and Penobscot! A very neat perspective of some fabulous, favorite hikes. 

To head down, we took the Northwest Trail which connects back with The Giant Slide. The Northwest Trail is a spectacular trail to hike down, overlooking The Sound. 

The air was warm, the sun was shining through the trees, the trails were quiet; except for the pleasant nature music of birds, rushing water, the breeze moving the tree branches and rustling the leaves left from fall. We noticed a few oddities along the way down...

Woodpeckers have been hard at work...

A swamp's surface showing a rainbow of colors in the gleaming sun!

Fresh mushrooms, atop a freshly cut log...

Sargent was a good decision made today. Although, my body is very tired and ready for bed. Happy Hiking!