Mt. Kineo

Well it has been a while since I have blogged. Partly because I have been spending very little time at home and on my computer. Guess it is time for me to get an iPad, then I can do this from the road, or the mountain top!

I spent last weekend with Michelle, camping at Lily Bay State Park. We arrived on Friday, set up camp and immediately formed a plan for the next day. I have wanted to hike Kineo for several years and was excited that the weather forecast for Saturday was mid 70s and clear skies.

We got up and did breakfast at the campsite, then headed off to Rockwood. The shuttle to Kineo launches from the boat landing in Rockwood, which is about a half hour drive from Lily Bay. More if you travel with me, as I stop frequently to take photos!! We were not sure of the distance from short to island so we decided not to kayak. In hindsight I wish we had, it was only .7 of a mile and a beautiful trip.Once we arrived at Rockwood, the boat launch was easy enough to find. The Kineo Golf Club runs a shuttle bus ($10 per person r/t) which normally runs on the hour. Capt Skippy, the moniker given the young looking guy who piloted the shuttle boat, was nice enough to run every 15-30 mins. We boarded, paid, and relaxed for the 5 min shuttle to Kineo. While we were being shuttled a family, I later learned from Bangor, was canoeing over. Yes, we beat them there..lol

We landed on Kineo, found the map and headed forth. The weather man was right, in that it was a clear day and the temperature quickly rose into the high 70s and low 80s. The first .8 miles is a flat rocky road that follows the shoreline. The first trail head, Indian Trail starts the incline to the summit. The guidebook recommends the Indian Trail for the multiple views of the lake and surrounding peaks. We were not disappointed. While the incline is somewhat steep it is not extremely difficult. Small rocks and tree stumps make for a bumpy but moderate pace. There are some spots where a hand held is needed to get up and over and I would suggest poles.
The Indian Trail goes up for about .4 miles and is joined by the Bridle Trail. Bridle is listed as an easier trail, longer without the significant gain. The Bridle continues to the summit for another .5 miles. Unfortunately, as we started up the Indian Trail Michelle's boots started causing issues. She decided to put off trail and rest while I finished the trail to the summit.

I continued on to the trail marker, from there the Summit was another .5 miles. It was pretty busy that day, so I met several groups of hikers. Once it was my turn to climb the fire tower I was ready for the cooler temperatures. I was not, however, ready for the spectacular view!! While I was up there, the family who canoed over joined me. They were eating lunch on the tower. What a great idea. I spent a few more minutes up there taking photos. I plan on doing a virtual 360 tour with photos.