Monson Appalachian Trail Visitor Center

06/16/2024

This morning, the Monson A.T. Visitor Center hosted trail professionals from Baxter State Park and the MATC | Maine Appalachian Trail Club. From left to right: Katahdin Stream Ranger Brandon DeCleene, Bigelow Ridgerunner Chloe Kenyon, Saddleback Ridgerunner Koty Lewis, Baxter Ranger Supervisor Bruce White, Katahdin Stream Ranger Pete Sweeney, Baxter Interpretive Interns Chloe Tardanico and Katy Fink, and Baxter A.T. Ranger Don Bolduc. Tomorrow, Baxter State Park will host Appalachian Trail Conservancy staff for training. We look forward to working together this summer and fall. Together, we will help hikers achieve their goals while staying safe and protecting the A.T. through Leave No Trace practices.

06/10/2024

NORTHERN GOSHAWK ALERT:
Northern Goshawks are nesting again along the Appalachian Trail in Maine near Pierce Pond Lean-to (NOBO mile 2,042.0). Goshawks are very aggressive in defending their nests and the Maine Appalachian Trail Club has received several reports of hikers being attacked by the birds. If you hear a bird making loud, repeated alarm calls, keep your distance and move carefully away while continuing to face the bird. If the bird swoops down toward you, raise your trekking poles above your head; the bird will likely aim for the highest point (the poles) rather than your head. Make noise by yelling and banging your poles together; this may cause the bird to retreat. If you're wearing a hat, pull the brim down over your face for protection.

05/31/2024

The Monson Appalachian Trail Visitor Center is open for the 2024 season! Our hours of operation are as follows:
Monday: 8:00 – 11:00 AM and 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Tuesday: 8:00 – 11:00 AM and 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Wednesday: staffed as available – please check ahead
Thursday: 8:00 – 11:00 AM and 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Friday: 8:00 – 11:00 AM and 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 – 11:00 AM and 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM
(Closed Monday, June 17 for training in Baxter State Park.)
We look forward to helping you in person, over the phone (413-200-0313), through Facebook messaging, or by email ([email protected]). Whether you're a thru hiker, a section hiker, a day hiker, or just passing through town, we have lots of helpful information about the A.T., other local trails, and the wealth of activities our region offers.

10/23/2023

NOTICE: TRAIL AND ROAD CLOSURES

Effective this Saturday, 10/21/2023, all Katahdin and Traveler Loop Trails will be closed at the trailheads for the season. With the onset of heavy fall rains and nighttime freezing temperatures the fragile alpine environments in the park are threatened by foot traffic as hikers navigate flooded and frozen sections of trail.

Effective Monday 10/23/2023, Roaring Brook road will be closed in its entirety (and gated at Togue Pond Gatehouse) for road maintenance work, until further notice.

10/09/2023

Another season flew by! The Monson Appalachian Trail Visitor Center’s final day of operation for 2023 was October 9. We plan to reopen in June 2024. In the meantime, if you would like to contact us, we will periodically check emails sent to [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you in summer 2024! (Photo: Sunset colors over Katahdin viewed from Abol Bridge, July 23 2016; by Wendy Weiger.)

10/08/2023

DANGEROUSLY HIGH STREAM FLOWS NORTH AND SOUTH OF MONSON: FOLLOWING HEAVY RAIN, STREAM FLOWS BOTH SOUTH OF MONSON AND IN THE HUNDRED MILE WILDERNESS ARE DANGEROUSLY HIGH. HIKERS SHOULD NOT ATTEMPT ANY MAJOR STREAM CROSSINGS UNTIL FLOWS DECREASE. FORDS THAT ARE TYPICALLY CHALLENGING AT HIGH STREAM FLOWS INCLUDE (FROM SOUTH TO NORTH): ORBETON STREAM, THE SOUTH BRANCH OF THE CARRABASSETT RIVER, BAKER STREAM, THE WEST BRANCH OF THE PISCATAQUIS RIVER, LITTLE WILSON STREAM, BIG WILSON STREAM, LONG POND STREAM, THE WEST BRANCH OF THE PLEASANT RIVER, AND THE EAST BRANCH OF THE PLEASANT RIVER. AT CURRENT FLOWS, EVEN CROSSINGS OF SMALLER STREAMS MAY BE DANGEROUS. IF YOU THROW A STICK INTO A STREAM AND THE WATER CARRIES IT DOWNSTREAM FASTER THAN YOU CAN FOLLOW IT WALKING ALONG THE BANK, IT WILL NOT BE SAFE FOR YOU TO CROSS.

10/06/2023

This coming Tuesday, October 10, Monson Appalachian Trail Visitor Center Manager Wendy Weiger will be speaking at a potluck supper organized by the Blanchard Preservation Society. The meal is at 5:00 PM at the Blanchard Meeting House. Afterward, she will take guests on a virtual hike along the Appalachian Trail from the Kennebec River to Katahdin. She'll share maps and day hikes for people of all levels of ability and experience. We'd love to see you there!

10/06/2023

UPDATE AS OF 8 AM SATURDAY OCTOBER 7: The National Weather Service is currently predicting up to 3 3/4 inches of rain from now through tomorrow morning. A flood watch is in effect from 6 PM this evening until 2 PM tomorrow.
HAZARDOUS WEATHER PREDICTED: The National Weather Service is predicting up to 2 3/4 inches of rain in the Monson area tomorrow afternoon (Saturday October 7) through Sunday morning (October 8 ). Stream crossings south of Monson and in the Hundred Mile Wilderness may become dangerous or impassable. Here are some tips about stream fording safety:

10/02/2023

Check out today's Google Doodle, which celebrates the Appalachian Trail!

Celebrating the Appalachian Trail!

09/30/2023

The Monson Appalachian Trail Visitor Center was happy to welcome the intrepid crew of 32 Feet Up (https://www.facebook.com/32feetup) to Monson today! Nikki Bettis and her fifteen children, who range in age from four to twenty-five, are hiking the A.T. together: Nikki and her thirteen younger children (pictured here with three trail friends) are completing a flip-flop thru hike of the A.T., while her two oldest children join the rest of their family for sections as their work and schedules allow. We wish them well as they move toward the completion of their journey: they summited Katahdin September 26, and are currently hiking south toward the New Hampshire border. Then they will head south to the Smokies. Their thru hike will conclude at the southern entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park in October.

09/23/2023

Update: The last day of operation for the Abol Bridge Store and Campground will be October 1.

09/18/2023

HAZARDOUS WEATHER PREDICTED: The National Weather Service is predicting up to 2 3/4 inches of rain in the Monson area this afternoon, tonight, and tomorrow morning. A flood watch is in effect. Stream crossings south of Monson and in the Hundred Mile Wilderness may become dangerous or impassable. Here are some tips about stream fording safety:

08/07/2023

HAZARDOUS WEATHER PREDICTED: The National Weather Service is predicting up to 3 1/4 inches of rain in the Monson area on Monday night (August 7), Tuesday (August 8 ), and Tuesday night, and has declared a flood watch for Tuesday afternoon and evening. Stream crossings south of Monson and in the Hundred Mile Wilderness may become dangerous or impassable. Here are some tips about stream fording safety:

WHEN IN SERIOUS DOUBT, WAIT IT OUT. If you don't believe you can safely cross a rain-swollen stream, you should wait for the water to come back down to a manageable level or seek an alternate route that avoids the crossing. Throw a stick into the water and watch how quickly the water carries it downstream. If you can't walk as fast as it is moving, it won't be safe for you to cross.

If the crossing from white blaze to white blaze looks too risky to you, try scouting upstream and downstream for a safer crossing.

Be cautious about using any ropes suspended above the stream. These are not "official" installations by trail maintainers; they are left by well-intentioned hikers. Some of these hikers may be skilled in choosing the best place to cross a stream and tying secure knots; others may be less skilled. Look carefully at the placement of a rope and how it is secured on your side of the stream before entrusting your safety to it.

Use appropriate footwear. Good water shoes are best; crocs may be adequate if you use the heel strap. If you don't have anything else, leave your hiking boots on (you can remove your socks and insoles to keep them dry). Bare feet offer less traction and may lead to foot injuries.

Unbuckle the hip and chest straps of your pack so you can let go of it easily if you fall.

If you don't have trekking poles, look on the forest floor for a sturdy stick to use as a walking stick.

Enter the water facing upstream, bending your knees slightly to brace yourself against the current.

Shuffle sideways across the stream, maintaining maximum possible contact with the stream bed with your feet and poles as you proceed. Continue facing upstream as you move; avoid turning sideways to the current.

Do not attempt to ford the Kennebec River at any time. Dam releases upstream may cause sudden and rapid changes in water depth and current.

For additional recommendations, see https://appalachiantrail.org/explore/plan-and-prepare/hiking-basics/safety/river-and-stream-crossings/.

Fording streams and rivers may be the most dangerous challenge hikers confront. River crossings can be deceptively hazardous. Even a very shallow, swiftly flowing body of water can pack enough force to knock you off your feet. Use caution and common sense. Carry a map and compass and know how to use

08/07/2023

Update: The KI Road over Henderson Brook will reopen Friday, September 29.

Beginning August 7 the KI Road in the 100 Mile Wilderness will be closed to through traffic. Hikers should follow the new re-route and stay out of the construction zone.

07/13/2023

https://appalachiantrail.org/trail-updates/maine-high-water-piscataquis-river-100-mile-wilderness-7-11-23/

The Appalachian Trail in Maine has received significant rainfall over the past week, resulting in abnormally high rivers and streams.

06/30/2023

UPDATE: The Kennebec Ferry is expected to resume operation Tuesday, July 4.

Due to extremely high-water levels on the Kennebec River in Maine, the ferry has temporarily paused service again. Hikers should take an alternate route by shuttling around the river until the ferry resumes service. Hikers detouring around the Kennebec River will still be eligible for a 2,000-miler certificate. Learn more: https://appalachiantrail.org/trail-updates/maine-kennebec-river-ferry-temporary-closure/

06/24/2023

UPDATE: The flood waters along the A.T. in Baxter State Park have receded as of June 30.

CAUTION: Trails in the southern portion of Baxter State Park are flooded, in places to waist deep or higher.

This includes trails around Abol Bridge, including approximately 3 miles of the Appalachian Trail, Abol Stream trail, and lower portions of Foss & Knowlton and Blueberry Ledges trails.

Use of these trails under these conditions is dangerous- hikers risk being caught in swiftwater at stream crossings.

The flooding is the result of water release from a dam upstream on the West Branch Penobscot River, and is expected to last until June 30th. Park staff highly recommend that hikers make alternate plans for the use of these trails until the water releases stop.

https://baxterstatepark.org/2023/06/23/caution-trails-in-the-southern-portion-of-the-park-are-flooded-in-places-to-waist-deep-or-higher/

06/21/2023

Update: The ferry is operating as of June 24.

The Kennebec River Ferry (NOBO Mile 2043.4) is not running temporarily due to extremely high-water levels on the Kennebec River.

06/18/2023

STREAM CROSSING ALERT: It's been a wet two weeks along the A.T. in Maine. Streams and rivers are flowing at dangerously high levels, and some are currently impassable. It appears that our rainy spell is coming to an end. But even without further precipitation, it will take a few days for flows to drop back to moderate levels.

Here are some tips about stream fording safety:

WHEN IN SERIOUS DOUBT, WAIT IT OUT. If you don't believe you can safely cross a rain-swollen stream, you can always wait for the water to come back down to a manageable level after the rain stops. Throw a stick into the water and watch how quickly the water carries it downstream. If you can't walk as fast as it is moving, it won't be safe for you to cross.

If the crossing from white blaze to white blaze looks too risky to you, try scouting upstream and downstream for a safer crossing.

Be cautious about using any ropes suspended above the stream. These are not "official" installations by trail maintainers; they are left by well-intentioned hikers. Some of these hikers may be skilled in choosing the best place to cross a stream and tying secure knots; others may be less skilled. Look carefully at the placement of a rope and how it is secured on your side of the stream before entrusting your safety to it.

Use appropriate footwear. Good water shoes are best; crocs may be adequate if you use the heel strap. If you don't have anything else, leave your hiking boots on (you can remove your socks and insoles to keep them dry). Bare feet offer less traction and may lead to foot injuries.

Unbuckle the hip and chest straps of your pack so you can let go of it easily if you fall.

If you don't have trekking poles, look on the forest floor for a sturdy stick to use as a walking stick.

Enter the water facing upstream, bending your knees slightly to brace yourself against the current.

Shuffle sideways across the stream, maintaining maximum possible contact with the stream bed with your feet and poles as you proceed. Continue facing upstream as you move; avoid turning sideways to the current.

Do not attempt to ford the Kennebec River at any time. Dam releases upstream may cause sudden and rapid changes in water depth and current.

For additional recommendations, see https://appalachiantrail.org/explore/plan-and-prepare/hiking-basics/safety/river-and-stream-crossings/?fbclid=IwAR2Lq5pdmXhbqHF8zTXYBjiEwiQyvLG9SkDRR7WZWMyXZR3PgTHSvaD0tAY .

Fording streams and rivers may be the most dangerous challenge hikers confront. River crossings can be deceptively hazardous. Even a very shallow, swiftly flowing body of water can pack enough force to knock you off your feet. Use caution and common sense. Carry a map and compass and know how to use

06/15/2023

06/09/2023

STREAM CROSSING ALERT: It's been a wet week along the A.T. in Maine. Water levels have risen, and stream crossings are likely to be challenging over the next few days.

Here are some tips about stream fording safety:

When in serious doubt, wait it out. If you don't believe you can safely cross a rain-swollen stream, you can always wait for the water to come back down to a manageable level after the rain stops. Throw a stick into the water and watch how quickly the water carries it downstream. If you can't walk as fast as it is moving, it won't be safe for you to cross.

If the crossing from white blaze to white blaze looks too risky to you, try scouting upstream and downstream for a safer crossing.

Be cautious about using any ropes suspended above the stream. These are not "official" installations by trail maintainers; they are left by well-intentioned hikers. Some of these hikers may be skilled in choosing the best place to cross a stream and tying secure knots; others may be less skilled. Look carefully at the placement of a rope and how it is secured on your side of the stream before entrusting your safety to it.

Use appropriate footwear. Good water shoes are best; crocs may be adequate if you use the heel strap. If you don't have anything else, leave your hiking boots on (you can remove your socks and insoles to keep them dry). Bare feet offer less traction and may lead to foot injuries.

Unbuckle the hip and chest straps of your pack so you can let go of it easily if you fall.

If you don't have trekking poles, look on the forest floor for a sturdy stick to use as a walking stick.

Enter the water facing upstream, bending your knees slightly to brace yourself against the current.

Shuffle sideways across the stream, maintaining maximum possible contact with the stream bed with your feet and poles as you proceed. Continue facing upstream as you move; avoid turning sideways to the current.

Do not attempt to ford the Kennebec River at any time. Dam releases upstream may cause sudden and rapid changes in water depth and current.

For additional recommendations, see https://appalachiantrail.org/explore/plan-and-prepare/hiking-basics/safety/river-and-stream-crossings/ .

Fording streams and rivers may be the most dangerous challenge hikers confront. River crossings can be deceptively hazardous. Even a very shallow, swiftly flowing body of water can pack enough force to knock you off your feet. Use caution and common sense. Carry a map and compass and know how to use

06/03/2023

The Monson Appalachian Trail Visitor Center is open for the 2023 season! Our hours of operation are 8-11 AM and 1-5 PM Thursday - Monday through October 9. We are closed Tuesday and Wednesday. We will also be closed on Thursday June 22, July 6, and September 7, and on Friday June 23. We look forward to helping you in person, over the phone (413-200-0313), through Facebook messaging, or by email ([email protected]). Whether you're a thru hiker, a section hiker, a day hiker, or just passing through town, we have lots of helpful information about the A.T., other local trails, and the wealth of activities our region offers.

05/27/2023

TRAILS UPDATE

Starting Sunday, May 28th 2023 the Hunt and Abol Trails will be open for hiking to Baxter Peak.

All other Katahdin Trails will remain closed, including Knife Edge, Helon Taylor, Chimney Pond, Hamlin, Cathedral (and Cut-Off), Northwest Basin, North Peaks, Baxter Peak Cut-Off, Saddle and Dudley Trails. The only hiking open on Katahdin starting this Sunday are the the Abol and Hunt trails to Baxter Peak, and back the same way.

The Traveler Range trails also remain closed at this time. All other trails in the Park are open.

Early season hikers should be prepared for sudden changes in weather and temperatures on Katahdin by having warm and waterproof layers. Remember to have a good supply of water, food, and a headlamp or flashlight. Other recommended gear includes trekking poles, light gloves, warm hat, and quality hiking footwear with good traction.

Our Trail Crew and volunteers have been working on clearing trails, and to date have cut over 700 trees across the Park to provide access to the trails. This work is ongoing, and visitors may encounter trails that are blocked by blown-down trees from winter storms. Hikers should refrain from creating alternate trails to get around downed trees.

Please remember that Baxter State Park is a wilderness park. Practice Leave No Trace principles, carry out what you carry in, and do not rely on cell phone service within the Park to report emergencies. Outside firewood, pets, and the use of drones are prohibited in the Park.

We continue to assess trail conditions, and will provide updates on the opening of additional trails. Thank you in advance for only using the trails we have opened, and for helping us to preserve the trails and the ecosystems of the Park. Enjoy and be safe!

10/19/2022

BREAKING NEWS FROM BAXTER STATE PARK: Effective 10/20/2022, all Katahdin and Traveler Loop Trails will be closed at the trailhead for the season. Many of the trails within the park have sustained major damage during the recent storms, and continued recreation on the Park's alpine peaks poses a significant threat to the fragile environment as hikers navigate flooded and frozen sections of trail. Additionally, the Roaring Brook road will be closed and gated at the wildlife sanctuary boundary over Beaver Brook. Other Park trails remain open, but hikers should expect many blowdowns and wet conditions.

Visit the post for more.

10/15/2022

Update from Baxter State Park 10/17/22: The Katahdin trails from Roaring Brook are open again, until the seasonal trail closure.

10/10/2022

Another season flew by! The Monson Appalachian Trail Visitor Center’s final day of operation for 2022 was October 10. We plan to reopen in June 2023. In the meantime, if you would like to contact us, we will periodically check emails sent to [email protected]. We look forward to seeing you in summer 2023!

[Photo: Sunset colors over Katahdin viewed from Abol Bridge, July 23 2016; by Wendy Weiger.]

09/24/2022

PHONE SERVICE OUTAGE: Due to unexpected technical issues, the Monson Appalachian Trail Visitor Center phone is not currently operating. We are working to restore service, but until further notice, we will not be able to receive incoming calls or access any voicemails that callers may leave. In the meantime, you may contact us via email at [email protected] or via Facebook message. If you need assistance by phone, please call Appalachian Trail Conservancy Information Services Manager Caitlin Miller at (304) 930-5267 ext. 128. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.

09/22/2022

STREAM CROSSING ALERT:

The A.T. in Maine has received significant rain over the past week, and more rain is currently falling. Water levels are on the rise, and stream crossings are likely to be challenging over the next few days.

Here are some tips about stream fording safety:

When in serious doubt, wait it out. If you don't believe you can safely cross a rain-swollen stream, you can always wait for the water to come back down to a manageable level after the rain stops. Throw a stick into the water and watch how quickly the water carries it downstream. If you can't walk as fast as it is moving, it won't be safe for you to cross.

If the crossing from white blaze to white blaze looks too risky to you, try scouting upstream and downstream for a safer crossing.

Be cautious about using any ropes suspended above the stream. These are not "official" installations by trail maintainers; they are left by well-intentioned hikers. Some of these hikers may be skilled in choosing the best place to cross a stream and tying secure knots; others may be less skilled. Look carefully at the placement of a rope and how it is secured on your side of the stream before entrusting your safety to it.

Use appropriate footwear. Good water shoes are best; crocs may be adequate if you use the heel strap. If you don't have anything else, leave your hiking boots on (you can remove your socks and insoles to keep them dry). Bare feet offer less traction and may lead to foot injuries.

Unbuckle the hip and chest straps of your pack so you can let go of it easily if you fall.

If you don't have trekking poles, look on the forest floor for a sturdy stick to use as a walking stick.

Enter the water facing upstream, bending your knees slightly to brace yourself against the current.

Shuffle sideways across the stream, maintaining maximum possible contact with the stream bed with your feet and poles as you proceed. Continue facing upstream as you move; avoid turning sideways to the current.

Do not attempt to ford the Kennebec River at any time. Dam releases upstream may cause sudden and rapid changes in water depth and current.

For additional recommendations, see https://appalachiantrail.org/explore/plan-and-prepare/hiking-basics/safety/river-and-stream-crossings/.

Fording streams and rivers may be the most dangerous challenge hikers confront. River crossings can be deceptively hazardous. Even a very shallow, swiftly flowing body of water can pack enough force to knock you off your feet. Use caution and common sense. Carry a map and compass and know how to use

09/17/2022

It's hard to believe...but the end of another season is fast approaching. Here is a list of closing dates for hostels, campgrounds, as well as other facilities and services commonly used by hikers along Maine's A.T. from the Kennebec northward.
Update: The Abol Bridge Campground will close October 3 and the store will be open until October 8.

08/11/2022

2022 HANG TAG FOUND: The Monson A.T. Visitor has a hang tag that was found along the A.T. a short distance south of Stratton, Vermont. The number written on the back is 3230. If it's yours, please reply to this post, send us a private message, email us at [email protected], or call us at 207-573-0163.