Note that this loop trail will start/end at two different trailheads roughly 0.9 mi from each other; you can hike on the road to return to your car.
Starting from the Long Trail/Appalachian Trail parking lot, following white blazes, head north for 3.8 miles on the LT/AT to the summit of Stratton Mountain at 3,940’. A 70-foot fire tower, originally built by the CCC and renovated in 2011 by the Long Trail Patrol, sits atop the summit, offering 360-degree views (3.8 mi). Continue past Stratton Mountain summit for 3.1 miles gradually descending to Stratton Pond (6.9 mi). Take a left off the LT/AT to a blue-blazed spur trail. Willis Ross Clearing, a viewpoint of the pond, is 0.1 mi. off the LT/AT (7.0 mi) and is a nice spot to enjoy a break or lunch. Continue past Stratton Pond Shelter to meet up with the intersection for the Stratton Pond Trail. Continue on Stratton Pond Trail for 3.7 mi (10.7 mi) back to the Stratton Pond Trail parking lot which is 0.9 mi. (via Kelley Stand Road) from the AT/LT parking lot (11.6 mi.).
This route makes a nice overnight itinerary by staying the night at Stratton Pond Shelter.
