The County 2018 | Aroostook County Tourism | Page 14

THE COUNTY | 2018
A VAST SWATH OF WOODS AND WATERWAYS — in The Woods or just the woods , there are millions of acres to explore in Aroostook County no matter what your season or your sport .
Hike along a famous wilderness trail or just take a walk through the parks and lands scattered about the region . Paddle the broad Allagash and St . John rivers , catch native brook trout or landlocked Arctic char . In the winter , enjoy snow-mobiling , cross-country skiing , and snowshoeing . Then at night , make time to gaze up at a blanket of stars .
We are home to an abundance of hiking trails that allow you to become immersed in the hush of towering old-growth trees , serenaded by birdsong and stilled by the sight of wildlife like the black bear , the elusive Canada lynx , or even moose .
Aroostook State Park and Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge are wonderful places to start on your way to the North Maine Woods or even a trip to Katahdin Woods & Waters National Scenic Monument . In the heart of potato country , hikers enjoy scenic vistas to the horizon . Quoggy Joe mountain ’ s limestone and volcanic rock formations offer a glimpse into our geologic past .
Try backcountry hiking in the Deboullie Public Reserve , in northernmost Maine . Here , a 30-mile trail network leads to remote ponds and to Deboullie Mountain . Or just try a few of the other great hikes like Haystack and Hedgehog Mountain . Climb a fire tower . Enjoy the expansive views . Go camping !
Aroostook County is great to hike with the kids , with abundant , easy-to-climb mountains and spectacular , echo-worthy views from the peak . For an iconic experience , hike part of the International Appalachian Trail that runs through from Mount Katahdin in Baxter State Park into New Brunswick .
The North Maine Woods represents the spirit of people and nature . Today ’ s management plan provides for ongoing protection . If you visit please abide by Leave No Trace principles of pack-in and pack-out , staying on trails , and consideration for wildlife and other visitors .
LEAVE NO TRACE PRINCIPLES
Leave the wild places you visit the way you would like to find them . 1 . Plan ahead and prepare . Carry a map . 2 . Travel and camp on durable surfaces — stay on the trail . 3 . Pack it in , pack it out . Dispose of waste properly . 4 . Leave what you find . The woods are not a souvenir stop . 5 . Minimize campfire impacts . Be aware of forest fire risk levels . 6 . Respect wildlife . Give them space and don ’ t feed animals . 7 . Be considerate of other visitors . Be quiet and let others pass on the trail .
For more information about outdoor adventure in the region visit our website or call Judy at 888-216-2463 .
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