Recently I had planned a walk in the woods near a stream, a favorite hike of mine, but all plans are subject to change, and mine did.  Douglas Mountain has been another favorite hike, and it’s been a few years since I last hiked it.  

It was the perfect day to hike it,  sunny, a chill in the air, and despite one other vehicle in the parking lot, it felt like I had the place to myself.  

I started on the Eagle Scout trail from the parking lot into a mixed forest.  The trail was mostly snow-covered from a recent spring snowstorm.  The trail appeared to parallel a snowmobile path for a bit, between the recent snow and the fading orange trail marks on the trees; it would be easy to get off trail.  There were a few other spots, too, where I needed to look around for the next orange mark; sometimes they were only a few feet apart, others a few further.  The few big turns were well marked. I personally find that in situations like these, I tend to look at the lay of the land, where it looks like a path has been made, a bit tougher when the ground is snow-covered.  

The Eagle Scout trail starts with a gentle descent, before turning and starting the climb up the mountain.  You know you are near the top when you can start to see the stone tower at the top through the trees. 

I had the summit to myself.  The views from atop the stone tower did not disappoint on this sunny day.  Snow covered Mountain Washington to the west and the blue waters of Sebago Lake to the east.  

I continue my circular trek heading down the Ledges Trail.  As I expected, there were a few tricky spots to get through due to snow-covered ledges, but with patience and a low center of gravity, the trail was doable.  

The Ledges trail brings you down to what was the original parking area, enough space for maybe three or four cars.  That area is marked ‘no parking, tow-away zone.’  The walk along the roadway to the parking lot is enjoyable with more views of the western mountains.  

A good day of hiking.