National Monument
Katahdin Woods & WatersA remote, rugged landscape just minutes from Mt. Chase Lodge
Waterfront Lodging Near Katahdin Woods and Waters
Relax in cozy waterfront cabins or guest suites, enjoy hearty meals, and discover Katahdin Woods and Waters.
If you're looking for lodging near Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Mt. Chase Lodge offers the perfect place to stay just minutes from the monument. Nestled on the shores of Upper Shin Pond, our lodge provides a peaceful, comfortable retreat after a day of outdoor adventure.
Explore Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument
Discover the raw, rugged beauty of Maine’s newest national treasure. Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is a remote and uncrowded destination perfect for those seeking outdoor adventure, solitude, and stunning scenery. With sweeping views of Katahdin, quiet forests, and the winding East Branch of the Penobscot River, this wilderness offers hiking, paddling, biking, wildlife watching, and more.
Hiking and Backpacking
Explore a network of remote trails, from short scenic walks to full-day summit hikes. Favorites include the Orin Falls Trail, Barnard Mountain for panoramic views of Katahdin, and the Deasey–Lunksoos loop, where you are rewarded with unforgettable vistas.
Canoeing and Kayaking
Paddle the East Branch of the Penobscot River for a truly wild experience. This waterway winds through dense forest, past waterfalls, and along quiet gravel bars—perfect for wildlife viewing and peaceful floating.
Fishing
Cast your line in cold, clear streams and ponds within the monument. Anglers can find brook trout and landlocked salmon in these remote, unspoiled waters.
Wildlife Watching
Katahdin Woods and Waters is teeming with wildlife. Keep your eyes out for moose, black bear, river otters, eagles, and more. The monument’s quiet atmosphere makes it an ideal location for spotting animals in their natural habitat.
Biking and Scenic Drives
Ride the 17-mile Katahdin Loop Road for an easy, scenic bike ride or slow-paced drive. Along the way, enjoy scenic overlooks, trailheads, and interpretive stops highlighting the area’s natural and cultural history.
Stargazing and Dark Skies
Katahdin Woods and Waters is one of the best places in the eastern United States to view the night sky. Recognized as an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, the monument offers unparalleled stargazing free from light pollution. On clear nights, you’ll see the Milky Way stretch overhead, with stars, planets, and even the northern lights occasionally visible throughout the year.
Nature Photography & Fall Foliage
Photographers will find endless inspiration—from misty river mornings and fall foliage to starlit skies and distant peaks. The monument’s quiet, untouched beauty offers striking shots in every season.
Tekαkαpimək Contact Station
During your visit to the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, be sure to visit the Tekαkαpimək Contact Station. This beautifully designed building serves as a welcoming center and is perched atop Lookout Mountain in the southern section of the monument. The name Tekαkαpimək (pronounced deh-GAH-gah-bee-mook) is a Penobscot word meaning “as far as one can see,” honoring the Wabanaki people and the sweeping views found at the site.
The station offers a space for orientation, learning, and reflection. Inside, you’ll find interpretive exhibits designed from a Wabanaki worldview, highlighting the cultural and ecological significance of the monument. Friendly National Park Service staff and volunteers are available to help with maps, recommendations, and park information. The building also includes restrooms, a water fountain, and a park passport stamp station.
Surrounding the station are accessible walking paths, gathering circles, and panoramic overlooks—making this not just a stop, but a destination in itself. This scenic, thoughtfully designed, welcoming center is the perfect place to begin your Katahdin Woods and Waters adventure.
Why Choose Mt. Chase Lodge?
Experience Adventure and Comfort
At Mt. Chase Lodge, we offer more than just a place to stay — we provide the perfect basecamp for exploring the best of Katahdin Woods and Waters, northern Baxter State Park, and the Maine North Woods.
- Near Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument and Baxter State Park
Located approximately 40 minutes from the monument's southern entrance, the monument loop road, and the Tekakapimek Contact Station. Also located just 15 miles from Baxter State Park's northern entrance. - Private Waterfront Cabins & Guest Suites
Relax in fully equipped waterfront cabins or guest suites overlooking Upper Shin Pond, perfect for quiet mornings and peaceful evenings. A fully furnished two-bedroom townhouse is available for larger groups. - Elegant On-site Dining
Start your day with a hearty breakfast and return to a delicious three-course dinner most evenings, crafted with fresh, local ingredients. In warmer months, enjoy a relaxing waterfront outdoor dining experience. - Direct Access to Outdoor Activities
Enjoy hiking, paddling, fishing, snowmobiling, and wildlife watching right from the lodge. - Unplug & Unwind
Disconnect from daily stress. Limited cell service and internet. We do have WiFi in the main lodge if you need it. - Warm, Personalized Hospitality
Family-owned and operated, we welcome every guest with genuine Maine hospitality and personalized recommendations for your adventures.
