Home Is Our School: Hay Stack and Air Show September 1-7, 2013

Horizon Air Meet 2013

"Horizon Hobby Air Meet is an internationally recognized aviation event that's treated thousands of fans to inspiring radio control and full-size flight demonstrations. This year, Air Meet comes to Sanford, Maine and joins forces with the Maine Model Jet Rally to create an incredible four-day hobby event. And we're inviting fun-loving RC pilots, as well as RC drivers and Control Line pilots from around the globe for action a packed hobby extravaganza that will take place at New England's pristine Sanford Regional Airport."

Spencer getting his rocket repaired

The whole gang getting their rockets repaired

More repairs

Spencer getting ready to launch

Corey getting the rocket in place to launch

T minus... 5...4...3...2...1...

WOW! Look at those model planes!

Haystack

This rugged quarter-mile trail (1,438 feet to be exact) starts with relatively easy hiking across flat forest floor, but quickly steepens to loose rocks, gravel and ledge as you near the summit. About three quarters of the way up to the summit, the trail splits to the left where an easier but still rugged trail loops around to the peak. Hikers are recommended to stay on this loop. For a challenge, at the split in the trail one can climb straight up, across the exposed ledge to the summit. Be cautious!

Much of the trail is steep and across loose rocks and gravel so plan to wear good footwear (no sandals and flip-flops please!) and bring plenty of water as there is no source of drinking water along the trail. Other things to remember to bring: snacks to enjoy at the picnic area, fly spray to keep those Maine blackflies away, binoculars and a camera to capture the incredible views, and a cell phone to call for help if needed.

Enjoy the spectacular 360° views of Aroostook County from the peak: including of Mt. Katahdin, Scopan Lake, North Maine Woods, agricultural farmlands, Maine’s first wind farm on Mars Hill, and the twin peaks of Quaggy Jo Mountain in Aroostook State Park.

The Haystack Mountain area is part of a 215-acre public reserved land owned and managed by the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands and maintained by the town of Castile Hill (Mapleton).