The ascent up the ridge is steep and technical, requiring arduous scrambling up a never-ending series of boulders. In some places, the ridgeline is quite exposed, too. While this exposure opens up gorgeous views, hikers with a fear of heights should proceed cautiously. On the flip side, if you're sick of running mellow trails that simply wind through the woods, consider tackling Breakneck Ridge as a truly challenging climb!

The lollipop loop shown here is one of the longer routes incorporating Breakneck Ridge. This 8.3-mile lollipop includes a lengthy traverse of the entirety of Breakneck Ridge, undulating up and down the ridgeline before making a final ascent to the summit of South Beacon Mountain. The route then returns along the stem of the lollipop before breaking off onto a different ridgeline, descending along the flanks of Sugarloaf Mountain.

Since this longer loop version is much less trafficked than the 3-mile version, expect even more technical challenges, a fainter trail, and some sections of overgrown trail in mid-summer.

Note: At the time of this writing, the trailhead is currently closed for renovation from March 1, 2023, to July 1, 2023. It should reopen after that time.

Sources: https://www.travelingfoundlove.com/hiking-breakneck-ridge/ https://triptins.com/breakneck-ridge-hike/