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- West Peak
4,145 ft · Bigelow Range, Maine
West Peak
West Peak is a 4,145 ft peak in the Bigelow Range, Maine. The standard route is the Myron H Avery Peak and Mount Bigelow: 9 mi, 3,435 ft of gain, Class 1.
West Peak at a glance
- Elevation4,145 ft1,263 m
- RouteMyron H Avery Peak and Mount BigelowClass 1
- Distance9 mi3,435 ft gain
- Time6 – 8 hrsHard effort
- SeasonJun – Oct
- RangeBigelow RangeMaine
Climbing the Myron H Avery Peak and Mount Bigelow
From Route 27 near Stratton, Maine, start at Stratton Brook Pond and climb the Fire Warden's Trail or the Appalachian Trail over the Bigelow Range. West Peak is the range high point, with a sharp open summit giving sweeping views over Flagstaff Lake and the western Maine mountains. The upper trail is steep and rocky, exposed to wind near the top. Start early for the long day and carry water and layers. Usually combined with neighboring Avery Peak, and often done as a scenic overnight from the AT lean-tos.
Gear and hazards
What to bring
Backpack (20–30 L)
Water
Water Filter
First-Aid Kit
Whistle
Offline Maps- Compass
GPS Device
Headlamp
Power Bank
Hiking Boots
Trekking Poles
Base Layer
Midlayer
Insulated Jacket
Hardshell Jacket
Warm Hat
Light Gloves
Buff
Sun Hat
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
What to watch for
- High winds
- Storms
- Low visibility
- Cold summit conditions
- Rapid weather shifts
- Remote location
- Slippery terrain
Quests with West Peak
New England 4,000ersPeaks near West Peak
Frequently asked questions
How tall is West Peak?
West Peak is 4,145 feet (1,263 m) tall. It is in the Bigelow Range, Maine. It is also known as Mount Bigelow.
How does West Peak rank among the New England 4,000ers?
At 4,145 feet, West Peak is the 43rd highest of the 67 New England 4,000ers. The highest is Mount Washington.
How hard is it to hike West Peak?
The Myron H Avery Peak and Mount Bigelow is Class 1, which means hiking on a trail. Yak rates the overall effort hard: 9 miles with 3,435 feet of elevation gain.
How long does it take to hike West Peak?
Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Myron H Avery Peak and Mount Bigelow, covering 9 miles with 3,435 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.
Can a beginner hike West Peak?
The Myron H Avery Peak and Mount Bigelow needs no climbing skills, but it is a hard day: 9 miles with 3,435 feet of elevation gain. Build up on shorter hikes first, start early and carry plenty of water and layers.
When is the best time to hike West Peak?
The usual hiking window is June to October. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.
What is the trailhead elevation for West Peak?
The Myron H Avery Peak and Mount Bigelow starts at about 1,220 feet, roughly 2,925 feet below the summit.
Climb West Peak with Yak
Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list