fall foliage at Baxter.

[blaze]

A few friends and colleagues drove up to the Baxter area last Thursday 10/1 for some easy hiking and paddling.

Thursday 10/1 - drive up, set up camp at Compass Pond. Compass Pond has a nice primitive cabin operated by Katahdin Forest Cabins, and offers an outstanding view of "the mountain."

Friday 10/2 - hike to Chimney Pond, where I managed to not get a single good photo. But here's a couple of Basin Pond on our descent back down from Chimney.

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Color is near "peak" up ta Baxter...

we checked out Sandy Stream Pond before heading back to camp. No moose sightings, but great views, and a cool sunbeam breaking through the overcast...

Saturday 10/3 - an easy walk on the AT, from Abol Bridge to Nesowednehunk Stream. Three miles and change each way.

I'm always a sucker for a wet aspen leaf.

Sunday 10/4 - pack up and head home after an epic breakfast in Millinocket.

We had a relaxing and colorful weekend. Lots of good food, wine and microbrew and lots of laughter on the trail and around the fire.

Thanks to Flip, Splash, Biohazard, and McHaggis. Next fall's installment will be to the South Branch Pond bunkhouse!

 

[1HappyHiker]

Your photos are terrific!

I cannot ever get enough of autumn. In your report, you said: “I'm always a sucker for a wet aspen leaf.” Well, I'm always a sucker for anything having to do with autumn. This season has it all . . . colorful foliage, wonderful aroma, fantastic air temperature, no bugs, football! And, I’m certain that I’m forgetting more than a few other things about this remarkable season of the year!

 

[w7xman]

Simply gorgeous image...something I hope to experience some day!

Thank you for sharing!

 

[NeoAkela]

Great photos! Someday I hope to get up there to enjoy Baxter - I think this clinches what season I will shoot for!

 

[blaze]

Thank you for your kind comments!

Here are a few more photos from the trip.

For those who have never been to Baxter in fall, it's spectacular. First week in October is usually about "peak" foliage. I've backpacked, day hiked, and car camped there many times in autumn. The cabins at Daicey and Kidney Ponds have woodstoves, and are cozy even on cold nights.

It doesn't seem to be the best time of year for moose viewing though... they have other things on their minds... =)

 

[Jay H]

Nice photos Blaze, looks like it is indeed a nice season in Baxter...

Jay