Grafton Notch facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Grafton Notch |
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| Elevation | 1,542 ft (470 m) |
| Traversed by |  SR 26 |
| Location | North Oxford, Oxford County, Maine, United States |
| Range | Mahoosuc Range |
| Coordinates | 44°35′48″N 70°56′49″W / 44.596667°N 70.946833°W |
| Topo map | USGS Old Speck Mountain |
 Location in Maine
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Grafton Notch is a special place in Oxford County, Maine. It's like a big dip or gap between mountains, also known as a mountain pass. This notch marks the very end of the Mahoosuc Range of mountains. It also shows where the famous White Mountains end. A road called Maine State Route 26 goes right through this beautiful notch.
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What is Grafton Notch?
Grafton Notch is a natural opening in the mountains. It's a low point that makes it easier to travel from one side of a mountain range to the other. Imagine a giant's pathway through tall peaks! This notch is a key part of the Mahoosuc Range. This range is a section of the larger White Mountains, which stretch across New Hampshire and into Maine.
Where is it Located?
You can find Grafton Notch in the western part of Maine. It's specifically in Oxford County. The notch is surrounded by tall mountains. On one side is Old Speck Mountain. On the other side is Baldpate Mountain.
How Water Flows Through the Notch
Water from Grafton Notch flows in different directions. To the north, water goes into the Swift Cambridge River. This river then joins other rivers and eventually reaches Umbagog Lake. From there, the water flows into the Androscoggin River. This river finally empties into the Gulf of Maine. To the south, water from the notch flows into the Bear River. This river also joins the Androscoggin River. So, water from Grafton Notch helps feed a big river system in Maine.
Grafton Notch State Park
A large part of the land around the notch is protected. It's called Grafton Notch State Park. This park covers the low areas of the notch. It also reaches up to the top of Old Speck Mountain. This mountain is on the southwest side of the notch. On the northeast side, the park includes the lower parts of Baldpate Mountain. The park is a great place for outdoor activities.
The Appalachian Trail
The famous Appalachian Trail crosses right through Grafton Notch. This trail is a very long hiking path. It stretches for about 2,170 miles (3,492 kilometers). It starts in Georgia and ends in Maine. Hikers on the Appalachian Trail pass between Old Speck Mountain and Baldpate Mountain right in the notch. It's a popular spot for hikers to rest and enjoy the views.
Images for kids
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View of Grafton Notch from the top of Old Speck Mountain
