The trail to Sandy Stream Pond provides an interesting half-day hike of 1.5 miles there and back again. The pond is known for its frequent moose sightings and its proximity to Roaring Brook Campground makes it a popular late afternoon or early evening walk. There are excellent views of the east side of Katahdin. No climb is involved. The trail is blue-blazed and has extensive bog bridging in wet areas near the pond.
From Roaring Brook Campground, the route follows the Russell Pond Trail for less than 0.1 miles, crossing Roaring Brook on a bridge. After the bridge, the Roaring Brook Nature trail departs to the right and the Russell Pond trail bears away to the left. The Sandy Stream Pond trail continues ahead following a well worn path for 0.3 miles until it turns right and crosses the first outlet of Sandy Stream Pond on a narrow bridge. From here, the trail parallels the southeast shore of the pond with several side spurs leading to viewpoints on the shore. The best of these is at 0.6 miles, where a side trail leads down to "Big Rock." The second outlet of the pond is crossed a short distance beyond. A fork in the trail is reached at 0.7 miles at which point hikers seeking a longer trip may continue right to South Turner Mountain or left to reconnect with Russell Pond Trail.
Park Fees: See website for entrance and camping fees. [No entrance fee for Maine residents.]
Park Rules: See a more complete list here.
This trail is within Baxter State Park. For more information and detailed trail maps, please visit Baxter State Park Authority's website.
The Sandy Stream Pond trailhead is located in Roaring Brook Campground which is best accessed from the Togue Pond Gatehouse (South Gate) of Baxter State Park.
From downtown Millinocket: Travel 16 miles northwest on the paved Baxter Park Road to the Togue Pond Gatehouse, passing buildings and the Golden Road Crossing after eight miles. After entering the park at Togue Pond Gate, bear right and continue onto the Roaring Brook Road for 7.9 miles. Roaring Brook Road ends at Roaring Brook Campground. Park in the day-use lots straight ahead. The trailhead is located at the north end of this parking area just before the Roaring Brook Ranger Station.
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