This text is part of the special book Plaisirs
The northeast of the United States has a crazy charm during the color season, especially Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. The hike is an opportunity to admire their mountains more closely, easily accessible from Quebec.
MAINE
Known for its jagged seaside that plunges into the Atlantic Ocean, this state, the northernmost in New England, is crossed by the Appalachian Mountains and by its famous International Trail (SIA), which connects Georgia to Land -New along 3100 km. This is where hikers find the challenge: Mount Katahdin (1600 m), the highest point in Maine, in the heart of Baxter State Park (reservation required).
A classic
Acadia National Park
It is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, and for good reason: its natural promontories that line the coast give an incredible contrasting landscape between ocean and steep relief. Many trails for all levels allow you to immerse yourself in its unique mineral atmosphere. Direction Gorham Mountain, accessible by a loop that evolves at the edge of the shore on an orange rocky base, then which enters the forest for a gradual climb to the summit, at 163 m. There is a circular view of the ocean and the highest point of the park, Mount Cadillac (460 m). It will take two and a half hours of walking to complete the 4.5 km loop starting from the Sand Beach parking lot.
A discovery
Grafton Notch State Park
Established on the public lands of Mahoosuc, in the hinterland of Maine, this park is criss-crossed with trails punctuated by magnificent waterfalls, a privileged setting for admiring its mountainous forests set ablaze by autumn. It is on the Mahoosuc massif that the most spectacular section of the SIA stands out. We will not fail to drive peacefully on the magnificent Grafton Notch panoramic road before putting on our hiking boots to “live” this environment with all our senses. These paths are particularly sought after by birdwatchers, especially the Table Rock loop, an accessible trail (3.4 km) that can be covered in less than two hours in an environment conducive to contemplation. The return is via the Appalachian Trail. Dogs are allowed on a leash.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
This state is known for its colorful coastal villages and strong culture of both commercial and recreational fishing. Autumn is the ideal season to survey the White Mountains, which cover a large part of its territory. It is home to the highest peak in the eastern United States, Mount Washington (1,917 m), a tall order that only seasoned hikers should attempt.
A classic
White Mountains National Forest
This mountainous environment is home to some of the most beautiful—and challenging—trails in the eastern United States. Hikers can only appreciate the loop of Mounts Lincoln (1550 m) and Lafayette (1600 m) by which one reaches a summit ridge with unobstructed viewpoints. With 14 km on the program and more than 1000 m of elevation gain, only seasoned hikers should venture there. More accessible, Mount Willard (873 m) is won at the cost of a moderate effort up to a rocky cape where a breathtaking view of the valley is revealed. A short 5 km round trip, starting from the Crawford Depot parking lot, which has many surprises in store along the way.
A discovery
Franconia Notch State Park
It enjoys a pampered natural environment since it is located north of the White Mountains National Forest. This park studded with lakes and waterfalls is also home to several natural curiosities: the Old Man of the Mountain, a “human profile” chiseled in blocks of granite, and the Flume Gorge, a narrow gorge carved by a torrent at the foot of the mountain. Liberty. A 3 km circular hiking trail (Flume Trail), accessible from the Flume Building, allows you to evolve in the heart of these spectacular creations of nature. In addition, an aerial tram offers the chance to observe Cannon Mountain from the heights (reservation required) and the famous ski resort that bears its name. Hikers are invited to take the shuttle near the Lafayette campground to get to the trails in the north or south sectors.
VERMONT
Hikers like to take their boots for a walk on the slopes of the Green Mountains National Forest, which begins in Quebec’s Eastern Townships. This range, which is part of the Appalachians, is a mecca for hiking, whether short or long. As everywhere in Vermont, the air is mild and the atmosphere serene. Before taking its paths, we will have the pleasure of admiring the architectural heritage of its villages surrounded by an omnipresent green nature.
A classic
Camel’s Hump Trail
This is one of the most popular trails in the Green Mountains National Forest (9.7 km) because it skirts the highest surrounding peaks, including Killington Peak (1291 m) well known to Quebec skiers. From Camel’s Hump Road, we first take the Monroe Trail, which climbs steeply while offering some headlands to catch our breath. Before reaching the summit, the trail narrows to the point that walking sticks are not superfluous. But up there, a 360-degree view reveals on a clear day the awe-inspiring mountain range, including Mount Mansfield and, even, Mount Washington.
A discovery
Lye Brook Falls Trail
Contemplating the second largest waterfall in Vermont (almost 40 m): this is what this trail offers you, starting near Manchester, in the Green Mountains. This accessible 7 km (return) route begins with a short stretch on the Lye Brook Trail, before connecting to Lye Brook Falls. After a short climb, it leads to the grandiose spectacle of the fall. The circuit takes just over two hours.