Vistas & Views
Some of the best spots on the Byway …
Perhaps it could be said that the views of majestic Katahdin are the Byway’s “signature views”. From the Byway, visitors have the opportunity to experience the “wow” factor from various points along the way, these vistas and views offering a collection of some of the most spectacular scenery of Maine in just one region. And of course plenty of photo opps too!
Climbing along the ridgeway to Ash Hill, there is a breathtakingly beautiful 360° view of Katahdin, the mountains surrounding Baxter State Park as well as views toward the Allagash River and Aroostook County.
Another stopping point is the footbridge known as Abol Bridge. Right on the Penobscot River, there is plenty of nearby parking to stop on the Abol. Definitely worth the stop for the impressive view of the famed reflection of Katahdin and surrounding wilderness.
The view from Dolby Pond remains virtually unchanged from the majesty of over 150 years ago as recorded by some of the visitors to the region. Just another “can’t get enough of Mount Katahdin” vantage point!
Other “long” views include Grand Lake Matagamon and the launch areas at Millinocket and Ambajejus Lakes. These points are considered of particular interest by many because of the effect of looking at Katahdin rising up on the horizon with bodies of water in the foreground.
RESOURCES
VIEWS FROM ASH HILL
Right on the Scenic Byway (Route 11), just a few miles South of Patten Maine, on what is known as “Ash Hill”, there is a spectacular view of Mount Katahdin and the area. There’s a small but safe area to park so make sure to stop! Google Map Link
ROLLING HILLS & WINDING ROADS
A few miles North of Patten on Route 11 driving North toward Mount Chase there are some beautiful vistas of Mount Chase and winding roads. Google Map Link
EAST BRANCH OF THE PENOBSCOT RIVER
Past Mount Chase but before the Northern Entrance of Baxter park, pull in near the Matagamon Wilderness Campground. It’s a great spot to contemplate the East Branch of the Penobscot River as well as the surroundings. Google Map Link
MATAGAMON LAKE
Just before the Northern Entrance of Baxter Park, there are some great views of Lake Matagamon. The easiest place to park is at the free parking lot right before the gates of the park. It’s also a public boat landing place so bring your canoe! Google Map Link
VIEWS OF THE SEBOIES RIVER
Just 6.3 miles North of Shin Pond Village, on your way to the Northern Entrance of Baxter park on the byway (Grand Lake Road), there’s a beautiful rest area that allows you to contemplate the Seboies River. Note that accross the street, there’s a trail entrance that parallels the river. Learn more
GRINDSTONE FALLS & REST AREA
Grindstone Falls are north of East Millinocket on Route 11 in Penobscot County. Route 11, which follows the East Branch of the Penobscot River north to south. It’s a good spot bald eagles and Mergansers. There’s a great rest area with picnic tables and views of Grindstone Falls. Learn more
VIEW OF DOLBY POND & REST AREA
Dolby Pond is located at the Southern Entrance of Millinocket on Route 11/157/Main Street. There is a nice rest area with picnic tables and views of Dolby Pond with Katahdin in the background. Google Map Link
ABOL BRIDGE
18.9 miles North of Millinocket, on your way to the Southern Entrance of Baxter park on the byway (via Baxter Park Road or Golden Road), there’s a beautiful spot that offers incredible views of Mt Katahdin. Google Map Link
