In many ways the walking Ring Trail around the little mountain is more scenic than the summit of Mt. Agamenticus. The top consists of a flat open field, a wooden function lodge and an unattractive array of antennae and microwave towers. There is a fire tower, a room floating atop a metal frame, rarely open to the public. The best view is from there since the tower peeks above the tree line that obscures much of the view from the top.

A steep car road with two hairpin turns leads directly to the top which once offered a winter ski slope for locals. Now only remnants of the old rope tow and T-bar remain. A sign in the parking lot tells an imaginary story of a "praying Indian" from the 17^th century named St. Aspeniquid, who was reportedly buried at the top of the hill. This appears to be a romantic 19^th century white fictionalized story based loosely on the life of the historic Indian leader Passaconaway. Too bad this rare bit of Native American history is so inaccurate.

At least six parking spots along Mountain and Summit roads allow for different approaches to trails that are well marked. We seem to always visit in the fall to walk below the canopy of changing leaves. The trail can be very rocky with loose pebbles and stones and thick roots hidden under fallen leaves – offering real potential for twisted ankles for those in sneakers and other inappropriate footware. But the views with the dense woods are lovely.

Trail markers offer information on local flora and fauna. Birders may see hawks, peregrine falcons, raptors and even bald eagles. Area wildlife includes white-tailed dear, black bears, fishers, moose, spotted turles and black racer snakes. There are a host of rare plants as well. The trail guide warns of constant erosion which can make areas impassible or flooded and muddy. Visitors are also asked to respect "vernal pools" that provide wetland habitats unique to this region.

During this visit heavy rains had knocked out one of the trails and we took the largely rocky Vulture Trail from the ringed walkway. The stones can be slippery, especially going down, and even though this is a mild hike, walkers should beware. It is always pleasant to see horse riders from the Agamenticus riding stable near the summit. Some walkers find the presence of hunters and all-terrain vehicles less than relaxing, but the mountain still serves this diverse range of users. Dog owners be aware that hunters are allowed to bait traps with meat while looking to attract bobcat, coyote, fisher, fox and marten – another good reason for dogs to be leashed and to say on trails.

Although owned and managed by the town of York, many organizations are now working in concert to maintain and protect Mount Agamenticus. They incude the Great Works Regional Land Trust, York Land Trust and the Nature Conservancy.

All photos (c) SeacoastNH.com All rights reserved. Place mouse over images for captions.

CONTINUE tour to summit of Mt. Agamenticus