The Sally Mountain Hike, one of my favorite hikes in Jackman, boasts of a splendid panoramic view of Attean Lake and majestic mountains. The 4.8 miles, give or take, appeals to hikers who enjoy moderate to strenuous adventures.
How Did Sally Mountain Get its Name?
Captain Samuel Holden was the first to call this remote region home in 1820. One day, he and his young daughter, Sally, looked out over the quiet waters of Big Wood Lake, also known as “Wood Pond.” Across the pond stood an unnamed mountain.
On that day, he took his young daughter’s hand, looked into her eyes and said, “That’s your mountain now.” From then on, it was known as Sally Mountain.
This hike involves taking a kayak or canoe over to the mountain’s sandy beach area. There’s even a picnic table for those who would like to bring sandwiches for lunch. Blueberries, one of my favorite foods, flourish on Sally Mountain during late July to early September. These small, round fruits not only offer antioxidants, but are tasty treats for a summer hike.
Directions
Turn down Attean Road (not far from where Route 15/6 joins US 201) and drive approximately 1.4 miles. Park off the road. Paddle a kayak or a canoe over to the mountain where you will see a picnic table and a sandy beach. The trail starts there. The green blazed trail ascends at an easy pace through a forest of birches, poplars, maples. It crosses a small, cool brook.
Farther up the mountain, it crosses an old woods road and the rocky trail rises moderately. It passes an enormous boulder and becomes steep. On the right is a birch tree with a mile marker; 20 yards after the mile marker is a side trail to an intermittent spring. As the trail nears the top, it branches briefly, and then rejoins atop exposed ledges. There are splendid views of nearby Attean Pond with Coburn Mountain to the south.
At this point, the trail, littered with pine needles, leads into the woods at a leisurely pace. I tread carefully here, since pine needles can be a little slippery at times. It’s not long before the site of the bygone fire tower comes into view. This fire tower, along with much of Sally’s forested peak that Captain Holden and his daughter once viewed, was destroyed in a forest fire. Hence, the open summit and unspoiled views.
Looking northward from here, Burnt Jacket Mountain is in the foreground and Slidedown Mountain rests in the background. Northeast is Boundary Bald Mountain. Southwest are Attean and Number 5 Mountains.
Remember your camera for the breathtaking views. Lasting memories are made from moments like these. When going on a hike, be sure to dress appropriately, let someone know where you are going, and take plenty of water and a compass in case you accidentally go off trail. Most of all, enjoy the hike!
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