Trails to the highest points
Aroostook County has a number of day hiking options great for the family and their four-legged friends. A quick hike up Haystack Mountain in Castlehill may seem simple enough - but overcoming the steep terrain and rock face make the panoramic views well worth the effort. The multi-use trails systems provide access to all sorts of outdoor enthusiasts with hundreds of miles of looping trails that bring you into many of the communities of the region. Our communities each have their own pocket of trails, some are better known than others – but all provide a great escape.
IAC
The International Appalachian Trail (IAT) crosses over the summit of Mars Hill Mountain on its long journey from Baxter State Park to Fort Fairfield, Maine. Hikers seeking to day hike Mars Hill Mountain follow a very short section of the IAT from the base to the summit.
The trail up Mars Hill Mountain leaves from the lower parking area at the Big Rock Mountain Ski area and heads up the wide ski slope before turning and following narrower trails to the top of the mountain.
Arooostook Valley Trail, Bangor & Aroostook Trail
The Aroostook Valley Trail gets as much use from ATV riders and snowmobilers as it does from mountain bikers as it winds through the forests and potato farms of northeastern Maine. It’s so far north that the United States and United Kingdom both laid claims to the area in the late 1830s in a dispute dubbed the Pork and Beans War, which ended without combat. Today the 28.8-mile trail connects with the Bangor & Aroostook Trail in Washburn and is part of the Interconnected Trail System, which comprises thousands of miles of ATV and snowmobile track in the state. Although it passes through towns with food and lodging, most of the trail is remote
Quoggy Jo Mountain is a family climb that provides panoramic views of the highest points in Northern Maine.
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Bill Sheehan ‘The Bird Man’, is an outdoor adventure writer and avid birder based in Maine’s Aroostook County. A lifelong Mainer, Bill has spent more than a decade exploring northern Maine’s landscapes in search of rare and iconic species, including snowy owls. As a member of the Aroostook Birders, he brings deep knowledge of wildlife, seasonal migration, and remote viewing locations. His work highlights unique outdoor experiences like birdwatching and canoeing in Maine’s quiet wilderness areas. Whether scanning open fields or forest edges, Bill knows where to look. Start planning your vacation to see moose in New England >
Kim Smith is a food and culture contributor based in Presque Isle in Maine’s Aroostook County. Born in Houlton, she has become a well-known local voice through her work as president of the Presque Isle Historical Society and Chair of Aroostook County Tourism. Kim specializes in Aroostook’s rich history, local traditions, and storytelling—from spooky tales to community heritage. She was recognized in 2026 by the Spirit of America Foundation for her volunteerism and community impact. When not sharing local flavor, she’s curating the local museums and documenting the history of Aroostook. Start planning a wicked rich cultural tour in northern Maine >
Jacob Pelkey is an outdoor storyteller of ATV and snowmobile trails Maine’s Aroostook County. With eight years of experience living and exploring the region, Jacob writes about year-round adventure like Nordic skiing at the Fort Kent Outdoor center, Muskie in the St. John River, and drumming at the Mawiomi of Tribes. He is a board member of the Can Am International Dog Sled Races, Four Directions Development Corporation and Tourism Developer for Aroostook County Tourism. Jacob was recognized as an Aroostook Achiever for his work in northern Maine farmers’ markets and storytelling. He never misses maple syrup season. Start planning your trip to see the northern lights in Maine >
Christina Kane-Gibson is a family travel and events writer based in Caribou in Maine’s Aroostook County. After returning from Texas to raise her two boys, she has become a leading voice on family fun in Maine, from beaches and splash pads to seasonal festivals and competitions. Christina works with the Mi’kmaq Nation and has served on Aroostook County Tourism and the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce boards. She is a recipient of the Maine Governor’s Award for Tourism Excellence for pioneering the City of Caribou’s popular Thursdays on Sweden Street event series. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her exploring potato blossom fields. Start planning your next family adventure in northern Maine >
Steve Dobson is a lifelong Mainer and dedicated advocate for tourism in Maine’s Aroostook County. A retired hotel owner and current campground operator, Steve brings decades of experience in hospitality and deep knowledge of northern Maine travel. He serves on the boards of the Maine Tourism Association and Aroostook County Tourism as Vice Chair, with expertise in the North Maine Woods, Loring Air Force Base, and is a vice of local history and fun facts. Known for his passion for antique automobiles and backroad exploration, Steve is an expert in the parks, museums, and historic sites on the National Scenic Byways. Start planning a vacation to visit Steve's favorite places in New England >
Judy Dinsmore is a lifelong Aroostook County local, born in Fort Fairfield and based in Caribou in Maine’s Aroostook County. Since 2001, she has worked in visitor relations with Aroostook County Tourism, helping thousands discover fun things to do in northern Maine - from craft fairs and Presque Isle’s First Friday Art Walk to the best places to shop and eat. Known as the voice behind the “Call Judy” tourism line, she’s attended every signature event in the region and knows each trailhead and local gem inside and out. Start planning your family fun in Maine with Judy’s trusted insight.
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