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Destinations › … › United States › Maine

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument

warningCaution2 warnings calendar_monthJun–Sepbest time schedule3 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberFreeentry
Katahdin Woods and Waters National MonumentYour own route Plan a trip here →
Caution Increased Logging Traffic Along Swift Brook Road

Be alert for logging trucks along Swift Brook Road between the monument boundary and the start of the Loop Road. Logging trucks will be transporting logs on Swift Brook Road to Roberts Road. Logging trucks ALWAYS have the right of way. Keep your headlights on. Never stop on roads

Caution Hunting Season Begins

Hunting in Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is now open for the 2026 season. Hunting is permitted on all monument land east of the East Branch Penobscot River. It is recommended that all visitors wear high visibility clothing regardless of their location within the mon Details open_in_new

Straight from the US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is a protected area in northern Maine, established to preserve the natural beauty and ecological significance of the region. Visitors come for the expansive views of Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine, and the chance to explore the diverse landscapes, including forests, rivers, and wildlife habitats.

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The monument offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing, and camping. It is also a place for reflection, honoring the area's history and the importance of conservation efforts. The quiet surroundings provide a chance to disconnect and appreciate nature's simplicity.

In pictures

Red and orange fall foliage hangs off dark branches on a green background.
Red and orange fall foliage hangs off dark branches on a green background.

Things to do

Hike Deasey Ponds Trail
45-90 Minutes · Spring/Summer

Hike to Deasey Ponds by taking an easy 1.4 mile (round-trip) trail located at the southern area of the monumen...

Hike To Orin Falls
3-6 Hours

Hike to Orin Falls for a magnificent view of a cascading waterfall.

Hike the International Appalachian Trail
2-3 Days · Spring/Summer

Hike a segment of the International Appalachian Trail that connects the southern section to the northern secti...

Stargaze at Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument

Enjoy stargazing in an International Dark Sky Sanctuary with some of the darkest skies east of the Mississippi...

Hike To Barnard Mountain
2-4 Hours

Hike to the top of 1,558ft Barnard Mountain for a magnificent and expansive viewpoint of Katahdin Lake and Mt....

Bike the Katahdin Loop Road
Spring/Summer

The Katahdin Loop Road is a 17 mile loop starting on the Swift Brook Road past Sandbank Stream Campground.

Fall Colors
1-8 Hours

Explore ways to enjoy beautiful fall colors at Katahdin Woods and Waters.

Birding In The Southern Section

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument provides important and diverse breeding habitat for many species o...

Hike the Seboeis Riverside Trail
0-7 Hours

Hike the Seboeis Riverside Trail from the Seboeis Connector Trail. Starting from the Seboeis Connector Trail m...

Birding At The North Gate Area

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument provides important and diverse breeding habitat for many species o...

Hike the Lichen Trail
1-2 Hours

Enjoy a 1.2 mile (1.9km) day hike on the Lichen Trail at the south section of the monument with a wonderful vi...

Paddle the East Branch of the Penobscot River (From Lunksoos Boat Launch to Big Seboeis)
3-5 Hours · Spring/Summer

Enjoy paddling the East Branch of the Penobscot River in Katahdin Woods and Waters!

Practical

At a glance

Opened
2016
Open
Daily open 24 hours
Accessibility
some trails are wheelchair accessible
Address
Route 11, Patten, ME 04765
Opening hours
Daily open 24 hours
Phone
207-456-6001
Price
Free
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

No entrance fee is required, but donations are appreciated.
Cell service is limited; download maps in advance.
Bring insect repellent, especially in summer months.
Dress in layers; temperatures can vary significantly.

Photo: NPS/ Gin Majka