Grafton Loop Trail Head West The Grafton Loop Trail is a 38.6 mile, backcountry hiking experience in the Mahoosuc Mountains of Maine. This challenging trail traverses the peaks in the Mahoosuc Region above Grafton Notch and the Bear River Valley, including a section of the Appalachian Trail, and provides a multi-day loop backpacking experience. The western section (17.5 miles, strenuous) follows the A. T. southbound along Cascade Brook, crosses many streams, then ascends the north shoulder of Old Speck with frequent views of the Notch; a 0.3-mile spur leads to the summit and observation tower, where Old Speck at 4180 feet is the third highest mountain in Maine. Scenery includes forests and brooks with small waterfalls giving way to numerous open summits with views across western Maine’s rugged mountains, especially the Mahoosuc Range, and into New Hampshire to the Presidential Range. There are four designated campsites on the western section with water available at each campsite.