Perpendicular Trail
Hike Perpendicular and Razorback Loop 2.7 mi round trip · the Park Service's write-up
1-2 Hours · no dogs · Spring, Summer, Fall
Start Long Pond, Mansell Mountain
The Perpendicular and Razorback Loop features a steep hike up to the summit of Mansell Mountain on the west side of Mount Desert Island. Although the trail and summit are mostly wooded, it is a quieter, strenuous hiking opportunity. The Perpendicular Trail was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) from 1933 to 1934. Flat boulders were laid end-to-end to form an easier walking path over the talus slope and rock steps were also added. The crew covered stones with moss and planted ferns to help them blend with their natural surroundings.
Distance: 2.7 miles round trip
Terrain: Forested paths, granite staircase, rocky trails, and rooted paths
NOTE: Pets are prohibited on the Perpendicular Trail (Mansell Mountain) since there are many steep sections, stairs, iron rungs, and a ladder.
Hike Description
The hike starts on the Long Pond Trail, located at the far end of the parking lot.
Walk .2 miles before reaching the junction of the Perpendicular Trail.
Over 300 cut granite steps, a few iron rungs and a small ladder allows hikers to ascend steep slope of Mansell Mountain. There are a few views of Long Pond between the trees.
Just before the trail turns away from the face, there is a short spur trail to an overlook of Beech Mountain, Long Pond and the outlying islands.
The trail levels off in the woods before reaching the summit of Mansell Mountain. There are no views from the summit.
Descend past the junction for the Mansell Mountain Trail before ending at the Razorback Trail.
Turn left (south) on the Razorback Trail. The trail provides great views as it steeply descends along the ridge before entering the forest and ending at the Gilley Trail.
Turn left on the Cold Brook Trail and continue onto the Long Pond Trail before ending at the parking lot.
Pets Pets are prohibited on Perpendicular Trail (Mansell Mountain) since there are many steep sections, stairs, iron rungs, and a ladder.
Accessibility The Perpendicular and Razorback Loop is not accessible. The trails have uneven footing and hundreds of granite stairs. There are no accessible restrooms at the trailhead.