Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, one of the newest additions to the National Park system, is nestled in the scenic northern woods of Maine, near Baxter State Park and Mount Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak and a famous endpoint for the Appalachian Trail.
Despite its proximity, this monument doesn’t provide direct access to either Baxter State Park or Mount Katahdin. While the traditional Appalachian Trail doesn’t pass through this area, an intriguing discovery awaits—an “International Appalachian Trail” that partially extends into the National Monument. As explained by a park ranger, this trail ambitiously stretches all the way to parts of Europe, adding a surprising global twist to your hiking adventures.
Essential Information:
– Date Established: August 24, 2016
– Size: 87,563 acres
– Visitor Center: Located at 200 Penobscot Ave, Millinocket, ME 04462
– Cancellation Stamps: Available at Shin Pond Village or the Visitor Center
– Fees: None
– Location: Situated off Route 11 near Millinocket, about 2.5 hours from Acadia National Park and 1.5 hours north of Bangor.
The National Monument’s History:
The creation of the park is a fascinating tale. Over the past 20 years, land was acquired by one of the Burt’s Bees Company founders and, after about a decade of advocacy, it achieved National Monument status late in President Obama’s tenure. Despite initial opposition and threats to its status during the Trump administration, the monument has prevailed.
Local opposition does exist, particularly from the logging industry, given the park’s proximity to logging areas. As you explore, you’ll likely see anti-monument signs and might share roads with logging trucks, which have the right of way.
Exploring the Monument:
Most of the park infrastructure is noticeably new or still under development. You’ll find a few scenic viewpoints and some trails that are semi-marked, with a handful of well-marked trailheads and recently constructed viewing platforms.
Visiting the monument can feel like a truly unique experience, as you might be among the few to see these pristine areas. While we couldn’t cover all the trails during our visit, and despite not spotting the local moose despite following park ranger tips, the allure of this unexplored land remains strong.
The visitor center in Millinocket is your starting point. Already a known gateway to the Appalachian Trail, Millinocket makes for a worthwhile quick stop if you’re passing through. Just remember, having your own transportation is crucial since public transit within the park is non-existent.
Though the monument lacks major attractions and may not justify a detour from Acadia National Park, it’s still a worthy visit for National Park enthusiasts. At the very least, it’s an opportunity to get your cancellation stamp, explore the grounds, and possibly be among the first to experience all that Katahdin Woods and Waters has to offer.
