Participants: John Brower & TC Ron Chase
The weather was too good to stay home and John answered my urgent call for a Donnell Pond Surf & Turf Trip. The Donnell Pond Public lands are one of the best kept recreational secrets in Maine. Consisting of 14,000 acres of forested lands that include several rugged mountains enveloping remote ponds and lakes, they offer an extensive trail system and scenic campsites accessible only by water; perfect for a surf & turf. John & I met at the Donnell Pond boat landing in Franklin on a sunny calm day. Completing a 3 mile crossing, we set up camp on sandy Schoodic Beach. The turf portion of our excursion began by hiking the Black Cliffs Loop Trail that starts and ends at the beach. Leaving the loop trail at a junction above the cliffs, we followed a hilly path to spectacular East Peak where we experienced expansive views of Tunk Lake and Mount Desert Island. Returning to the beach, we spent an idyllic night camping while enjoying a brilliant sunset during the evening. The following morning we were first on Schoodic Mountain to enjoy one of Maine’s premiere views; Frenchman Bay and the majestic peaks of Mount Desert Island from the summit. Light winds facilitated an easy paddle back to Franklin. We both agreed it didn’t get any better. Stay tuned for the newspaper column and blog which tell the rest of the story: http://rchase.bangordailynews.com/
