We’re experts at outdoor adventure. We know hiking, paddling, hunting. We have more moose than any other region in the state. We know the exhilaration of white water rafting and rides in a seaplane. We know the strength, determination, and the mental toughness it takes to hike our mighty Mount Katahdin. Are you ready to tackle something new?

On the Water

The Maine Highlands is home to beautiful Moosehead Lake. It’s the largest lake in the state and the largest mountain lake in the Eastern United States. With nearly 118-square-miles of refreshing water, the opportunities for adventure are endless. Paddle or motorboat, or hop aboard the historic steamboat Katahdin for a truly unique experience.

You will find the southern part of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway in our region. It’s one of the rare waterways that flows north! The Maine Highlands is also home to the Penobscot and the West Branch of the Penobscot River. These waterways are great for fishing, paddling, swimming, and whitewater rafting! With scheduled dam releases all summer long, it’s easy to plan the level of exhilaration you’ll find on our rivers!

There are countless other lakes and ponds (more than a dozen in the Lincoln region alone) that offer year-round fishing opportunities. These bodies of water also make a great place to relax and unwind after a day of exploration.

On the Trail

The view from above makes the hard part of getting there all worth it. Mount Katahdin is the highest peak in Maine, and the end of the Appalachian Trail. It’s a serious climb that takes hours. The experience will last you a lifetime.

Not up for that big of a challenge? Our region offers many shorter, less strenuous hikes for people of all ages. If you’re looking for a fun challenge in a beautiful setting, try your hand (or feet) at the Moosehead Pinnacle Pursuit. This challenge covers six peaks in the Moosehead region ranging from an elevation of 1,450’ (Mount Kineo) to 3,664’ (Whitecap Mountain).

Did you know that Maine has its own Grand Canyon? Gulf Hagas has been called the Grand Canyon of Maine, and it is a sight to behold. This area, tucked inside the Katahdin Iron Works forest, is a National Natural Landmark. It’s part of the Appalachian Trail’s “100 Mile Wilderness.” A lovely spot on a hot day, Gulf Hagas makes an excellent day trip.

But Gulf Hagas isn’t the only place to find waterfalls in Maine. Our region is home to 200 waterfalls for you to hike to and explore!

The adventure doesn’t have to stop just because it gets cold out! Pack your downhill or cross country skis and hit the slopes and trails. We have two family-friendly mountains in our region that offer ski and snowboarding for all ages. The Maine Highlands region is known for the ATV and groomed snowmobile trails that crisscross our land. People from all over New England haul their sleds to our area to experience some of the best snowmobile trails in the region. These trails are great for mountain biking in the summer, too!

In Nature

Take advantage of everything The Maine Highlands has to offer by spending a vacation camping in our pristine wilderness. Our three state parks all offer camping accommodations and reservations are best made in advance, especially if you want to stay in Baxter State Park.

Unplug, unwind, and take in the sights and sounds of your surroundings. Hit the trails or grab a paddle. Get outside!