Mt. Chase Lodge
Summer & FallMt. Chase Lodge and the surrounding area offer an abunance of outdoor recreational opportunities. Enjoy hanging out by the lake and exploring the natural beauty and unique area has to offer. Popular activities include hiking, biking, canoeing/kayaking, wildlife watching, fall foliage viewing, ATVing, and hunting & fishing. The more adventurous may choose to visit Baxter State Park and hike Mt. Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak. No matter what you choose, we are sure you will relax and enjoy exploring the region.
Hiking
The trails nearby are less traveled and in remote areas. It is not unusual not to see anyone else on a hike, whether it is in Baxter State Park, Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument, or on private land. There is very limited cell service on most of the trails. We ask that you plan ahead and take risks accordingly. Always bring a map, water, snacks, and appropriate layers. Let us know where you are headed before you go so we can keep an eye out if you are out for longer than expected. Happy Trails!
Moose & Wildlife Viewing
The best times to spot moose are around dawn and dusk. They are often seen in swampy areas with slow-moving water and oftentimes, on the side of the road. We often encourage our guests to get up early or go on slow rides in the woods after dinner. A couple of great local options are the Scraggly Lake Road near the Sawtelle Deadwater as well as the Snowshoe Road. Staff at the lodge can help give you directions to these places!
Many of our guests come back from Baxter State Park and Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument boasting about great encounters viewing Moose, White-tailed Deer, Otters, Eagles, Beavers, and even Lynx. The lucky ones see them from the comfort of their dinner table!
Canoeing & Kayaking
The best part of staying here is playing here! We offer a fleet of canoes and kayaks for guests to use, free of charge, right on the shores of Upper Shin Pond. Our Old Town Canoes and Kayaks are very stable and great for beginners or experienced paddlers alike. There is nothing more relaxing than an early morning or evening paddle, viewing wildlife and watching the loons.
There are several neaby lakes, ponds and streams to explore for those of you that choose to bring your own vessel. No canoe or kayak? No problem. We can point you to a local area business that rents both canoes and kayaks, but you will need to be able to transport them safely and securely.
Biking
We are so proud and excited to be partnering with Katahdin Area Trails to bring non-motorized trails to our property. From unique single track mountain biking to the more modern “e-bike” experience, we have a little bit of everything.
You can also choose to venture further from the lodge, pack up and bring your new wheels to the north end of the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument for a waterfall tour down the East Branch of the Penobscot. You also do not want to miss the newly built Penobscot River Trails offering 16 miles of carriage trails along the East Branch of the Penobscot River. They are located just 35 miles from our lodge.
Fall Foliage
Each fall the Northern Maine forests put on a spectacular show, displaying vibrant red, oranges, yellow, and gold. Visitors come to see the most impressive displays of color in the country. Typically leaves begin to change color in late September, peaking in early October. Spectacular foliage can be seen by hiking or biking, or you may choose to take a leisurely drive. Scenic vistas, mountains and rolling hills displaying their color will not disappoint. After a day of foliage viewing enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, near a warm fire in the main lodge.
Bird Watching
The Katahdin region offers a unique blend of boreal forest, mixed Pine, and alpine environments attracting many species of birds not typically found in the United States. Loons, black ducks, and a variety of waterfowl are commonly seen on Shin elevations, right out our dining room window! In addition, boreal habitats with many spruce stands and higher elevation can be found a short drive away in Baxter State Park. Species of interest to keep an eye out for include the Boreal Chickadee, Bicknell’s Thrush, Spruce Grouse, and the Black-Backed Woodpecker.
ATVing
If you’re a seasoned rider or new to the sport, we’ve got a great ride for you! Just out our door step, you have access to incredible riding on a well maintained trail system. Ride 20 miles up to the top of Roberts Mountain and watch the sun go down or gear up for a longer adventure that takes you to the bottom of the windmills allowing you to ride directly under them. We have plenty of room for trailer parking or if you do not own one, we can point you to our neighbors who rent brand-new Polaris Side by Sides!
View Our Dark Skies
Have you ever seen the milky way? Experience the stars on another level in the Katahdin Region. Our rural area, with little light pollution, makes you feel like you’re closer to space. On occasion, you can even see the northern lights. The Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument was recently designated as a Dark Sky Sanctuary, testifying to the quality of our night sky.
Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument – Dark Sky Sanctuary >>
History
Our area is crammed full of history and it’s truly amazing to learn about how northern Maine came to be. The Lumbermans Museum in Patten is a great starting point to gain a little knowledge. Even if you’re not a history buff, you’ll still enjoy walking through the exhibits, stepping back in time and coming away with an understanding and appreciation of how logging camps used to operate. A fantastic Rainy day activity and great for kids too!
Nearby Destinations
Visit Baxter State Park
The North gate to Baxter State Park is located just 15 miles from Mt. Chase Lodge. In addition to Mt. Katahdin there are over 40 peaks and ridges in the park. The trail system features over 215 miles of trails popular with hikers, mountain climbers and naturalists. You will also find many spectacular rivers, streams, and ponds for canoeing, fishing and swimming.
Baxter State Park
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Katahdin Woods & Waters
Spread across a wild landscape offering spectacular views of Mount Katahdin, Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument invites discovery of its rivers, streams, woods, flora, fauna, geology, and the night skies. All of the monument lands border the eastern side of Baxter State Park and the North Entrance is located just down the road from us here at Mt Chase Lodge.
Katahdin Woods & Waters
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Penobscot River Trails
Penobscot River Trails are a newly-developed trail system alongside the East Branch of the Penobscot River. They have 15 miles of biking trails surfaced with crushed gravel. They also offer mountain bike, snowshoe, and x-country ski rentals, with two warming huts and visitor’s center. In the winter, trails are groomed for classic and skate skiing with designated snowshoe trails.
Penobscot River Trails
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