As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, the Katahdin region transforms into a breathtaking watercolor of autumn reds, purples, oranges, and yellows. This might be the #1 time to visit the region because the weather is perfect for hiking and the crowds have diminished. Although there are countless things to do in the autumn up here, this is my list of must-do activities and events for your next Katahdin region trip. Print this list, put it on your fridge and see how many you can get to! This link shows you when to expect peak fall foliage colors.
Descriptions of why the items were chosen below.
South Branch Pond Ledges
This short hike out of South Branch Pond Campground in Baxter State Park gives you some of the best views and fall foliage in the northern part of the region. Best part? It's only a 1 mile hike! Sorry, no furry friends in Baxter.
Drive Loop Road in Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument
Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument is one of the newest additions to the National Park Service network. Since it's so new, there are very few amenities which may be a challenge for some but offers solitude you won't find elsewhere! The loop road offers great fall foliage viewing and good chances for seeing moose. More info here.
Stars Over Katahdin
This is an annual event hosted by Friends of Katahdin Woods & Waters. The festival has activities starting around 4:00pm including model rockets, solar viewing etc. In the evening, they bring out many telescopes and expert astronomers are there to help you know what you're looking at. More info here.
Buy Local Produce from the Amish
There is a large amish population in the Patten, Staceyville, Sherman area and they have some of the best produce and baked goods around.
Bike the Maine Woods Rambler
With routes from beginner to advanced, this bike ride brings together a unique community to explore some remote stretches of the Katahdin region. More info here.
Admire Art at Moose Prints Gallery
Moose Prints is home to local artists Mark Picard and Anita Mueller who's nature photography is known around the country. However, this cute gallery also features many other local artists. More info here.
Attend the Trails End Festival
A classic small town festival with a woodsy twist! Lots of music, artists, cook offs and activities celebrating the Katahdin regions outdoor community. More info here.
Have a Campfire in Baxter State Park
What's better than the sound of a fall breeze, crispy leaves and a toasty campfire? Absolutely nothing. Baxter State Park has so many wonderful campgrounds to fit your needs. More info here.
Sip on a Hot Chai from Morning Rush
I absolutely love driving around during peak fall foliage, listening to folky music and drinking a hot beverage. Morning Rush is the ONLY place in the Katahdin region where you can get an espresso drink and they make great lattes, cappuccinos, and chais.
Go on a Moose Safari with New England Outdoor Center
NEOC has been a Katahdin region staple for a long time and when it comes to finding moose, they're the best at it. More info here.
Bike at Penobscot River Trails
These state of the art trails and huts offer donation based bike, kayak and ski rentals! The fall foliage on these trails are stunning. You can visit their sister site, Sebeois River Trail, for a great, easy hike. More info here.
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