This section of the NFCT is characterized by dramatic features and a rich history. Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine, boasting the striking Mt. Kineo. Thoreau traveled this section of the NFCT, writing of his trip in the posthumously published "The Maine Woods." The historic Katahdin steamship was used for logging until the 1970s and today provides summer cruises. The Northeast Carry was used for centuries by Abenaki and early white settlers to access the West Branch of the Penobscot River. In the historic Chesuncook Village on Chesuncook Lake – accessible only by boat or float plane – paddlers will find amenities to ease their trip through the wilderness.
In order to safely experience the Northern Forest Canoe Trail in this region, please bring the NFCT Section 11 map with you on your trip. The Maine Trail Finder is not intended to be a comprehensive resource along this trail.
To learn more about this region and plan your trip, visit the Northern Forest Canoe Trail website. There you can:
Specific rules apply to the many campsites in this region and many require a fire permit. For more information about local regulations, please refer to the official map.
Camping and access sites along this section of trail are a result of NFCT collaboration with the following partners and landowners: Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands, North Maine Woods Inc., and private landowners.
Private Land Consideration: Many trails are comprised of both public and private land. Trail organizations work to secure landowner agreements and maintain public use through stewardship and maintenance efforts. Each campsite, trail, and access point may have a different code of conduct required by trail users. More information about specific user requirements and guidelines can be found in the resources -- website, map, or guidebook -- provided by the trail manager. As a trail user it is important to understand and uphold these codes of conduct to allow future use of these locations.
Visit Northern Forest Canoe Trail online for more information or contact:
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