Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument

East of Baxter State Park, this 87,563-acre monument protects Maine's East Branch Penobscot River and forests rich with moose, lynx, and salmon, on land long traveled by the Wabanaki and later by loggers who stayed at camps like Lunksoos. Its night skies earned International Dark Sky Sanctuary status.

Paddle the calm reaches of the East Branch, watch for moose at dawn, and stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the East. For a challenge, hike to Orin Falls or plan a multi-day canoe trip down the East Branch.