Rumford Whitecap Mountain Preserve

Rumford Whitecap contains the largest-known red pine woodland in the state. This unique windswept environment promotes tree islands dispersed across the bald summmit. In addition to containing a number of rare plants this woodland offers sweeping views in all directions.

The Trails

Within the Rumford Whitecap Mountain Preserve, two trails lead to the summit. The Iles Trail starts at the red gate directly across from the parking area and is marked with red and orange blazes. The Starr Trail, marked by yellow blazes, starts at the gray gate, about 100 yards north of the parking area on the East Andover Road.

The two trails merge just before reaching the summit. The remaining distance along the ridge to the summit is marked by cairns, orange ribbon flags, and paint blazes. Many points along the hike provide breathtaking views of the surrounding area: the Mahoosuc and White Mountains to the west, Mexico Hills to the east, and Androscoggin River Valley to the south.

Philosophy

How to get there

From US-2 in Rumford Point, take ME-5/Ellis River Road north for 3.1 miles. Turn right onto Andover Road and cross the bridge over the Ellis River. After 0.4 miles, turn left onto East Andover Road, and go another 0.2 miles to the parking lot on the left. The trailhead is across the road from the parking lot at a gated gravel road.