Bauneg Beg Mountain Conservation Area

Note: Great Works Regional Land Trust has opened a new 75-acre conservation area to the south of this beloved hike! Currently the two tracts are not connected. Check the trust’s website for information, and I’ve included a copy of the new trail map below. Can’t wait to explore!

This little mountain (866 feet) offers a relatively moderate climb — about 0.6 miles, never too strenuous — to a small open ledge with views, and is quite popular. Most people park in the lot off Fox Farm Hill Road, which should be plowed in the winter. There is another trailhead on the other side of the mountain, off Bauneg Beg Hill Road, but there is limited parking here along the road shoulder, perhaps room for about two vehicles.

From the best lookout, on Middle Peak, you can see the White Mountains and Atlantic ocean on clear days. (On hazy days, it’s easy to say “ho-hum” at the view.)

From the trailhead on Fox Farm Hill Road, the easiest route up is to follow the well-made Bauneg Beg Trail. At ~0.5 miles, take a left onto Ginny’s Way to loop around and up to the summit. This path avoids the boulders and cliffs of Devil’s Den. But if you like rocky clambers, go right at the intersection for Linny’s Way (it’s not too difficult, though)!

The North Peak Loop is a great trail, too, with open ledge but no views. If you choose to hike up the back end, from Bauneg Beg Hill Road, expect a fairly moderate, gradual climb that will bring you to the summit in about 0.5 miles.

According to reporting by Maine Mountain Guide writer Carey Kish, Bauneg Beg comes from the Wabanaki word Bannebeaugue, which means “spread out” and “still water.”

Directions: The address is 281 Fox Farm Hill Rd. Heading on north on Rte. 4 out of North Berwick, go 2.1 miles, then left on Boyle Road, which turns into Ford Quint Road, for about 5.5 miles, then left on Fox Farm Hill Road. (Even before you start this hike, you will see great views along Fox Farm Hill Road.) Parking lot will be about 0.3 miles on your left.