Streaked Mountain, Paris and Buckfield

There are two routes up this mountain: one from Streaked Mountain Road and the other from South Whitman School Road. The path from Streaked Mountain Road is shorter and very steep; it follows a power line to forest to ledge along a roughly blazed trail. The other way is up the tower maintenance road — a well-maintained gravel lane — and is longer and more gradual. It’s about 1 mile to the assortment of towers at the mountain top, and another 0.25 miles or so to the grand view.

The short trail is just about 0.5 mile, but be ready for a workout. The views are lovely at the tall rock cairns near the radio towers. But don’t stop here; for years, I did, but there is another, better view about 0.25 miles farther south.

To continue to the second viewpoint, follow the tree line from the most southern tower down the back side of the mountain for about 0.1 mile. You’ll see an opening to your right, marked with orange flags. Walk along the flat ridge for about 0.2 miles until it heads steeply up. At the top of this short climb, you’ll see a cairn marking the summit to your left and an open view to your right.

Directions: The trailhead to the short trail is about 0.5 miles down Streaked Mountain Road, just about 150 yards past a stone-wall enclosed cemetery and adjacent to a set of power lines crossing the road. To access the trailhead on the unpaved South Whitman School Road, turn onto the road from Route 117. In about 700 feet on your right, you’ll see small slightly eroded parking area, big enough for three cars, and the gate blocking the access road. Some people also park on the shoulder of South Whitman School Road.