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National Monument

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument

Mirror reflection of Lunksoos Mountain and trees within the water of the river.

The East Branch of the Penobscot River is filled with wildness and beautiful scenery for the adventurous few who travel down it.

Photo: Jason Gablaski

About

Spread across a wild landscape offering spectacular views of Katahdin, Katahdin Woods and Waters invites discovery of its rivers, streams, woods, flora, fauna, geology, and the night skies that have attracted humans for millennia.

Activities

AstronomyStargazingBikingCampingFishingHikingBackcountry HikingFront-Country HikingHorse TrekkingHorseback RidingHunting and GatheringHuntingPaddlingCanoeingKayakingJunior Ranger ProgramSkiingCross-Country SkiingSnowmobilingSnowshoeingWildlife WatchingBirdwatching

Directions

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is located in north central Maine. Drive approximately 1.5 hours north of Bangor, Maine to reach Route 11 (Katahdin Woods and Waters Scenic Byway). Route 11 is the main route to the entrances to the park. Take Route 11 to Route 159 and Grand Lake Road to access the North Entrance. Follow Route 11 to Swift Brook Road to enter the South Entrance. Take Route 11 to Route 159 and American Thread Road to access the Seboeis Parcel.

Get directions →

Weather

Northern Maine experiences all four seasons. Summer temperatures range from 45-90F (7-30C). Fall temperatures range from 30-70F (-1-21C). Typically, the first frost is in mid-October and first snowfall begins in November and can continue through April with an average accumulation of 73 inches (185 cm). Winter temperatures range from 14-35F (-10 - 2C). Spring temperatures range from 30-70F (-1-21C).

News

Apr 7, 2026

Public Comment Period Begins for Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument General Management Plan

The National Park Service (NPS) seeks public input to guide the development of a general management plan for Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument (“the Monument”) starting April 29, 2026.