Posted on November 5, 2018 and last updated on October 10, 2023

Speck Ponds Trail System, Albany and Norway

QUICK TRAIL FACTS

  • Preserve Size: N/A
  • Trail Mileage: 3.5 miles
  • Pets: yes
  • Difficulty: easy
  • Sights: Speck Ponds, mountain views (at power line)

The trail system here takes walkers to two quiet, remote ponds, Speck and Lower Speck ponds. Based on the number of gnawed trees and lodges that dot the pond edges, it appears a good-sized community of beavers live here.

Speck Ponds in particular has sensitive wetland habits, so dogs must be on a leash at all times.

The 3.5-mile well-blazed, well-made trail begins on Hutchinson Pond Road. At close to half a mile it crosses a power line and, shortly after, reaches the bigger of the two ponds. On the way to Lower Speck Pond, the trail crosses an ATV/snowmobile trail. You can loop around both ponds before heading back. The trail is relatively easy and mostly flat, although it has Maine’s ubiquitous roots and rocks to navigate.

This land, with a trail system built and managed by Bruce Barrett, is part of a 12,268-acre conservation easement held by Mahoosuc Land Trust. Please be respectful and leave no trace. Camping, campfires, and hunting are prohibited.

Important note:
Parking is very limited. If the lot is full, hikers should return another time. Cars cannot park along the road.

Directions: The small parking area for the Speck Ponds Trail is on a turn-out about 1.5 miles up the Hutchinson Pond Road, on the right across from a log-sided home.

Let me know if you have any trail updates or corrections!