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oose are abundant in the Crown of Maine, and moose especially love to hang out in the woods of Aroostook and roam freely on undeveloped land. Still, they can be tricky to spot, especially when laying low and their brown coats blend into their surroundings.
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If you want to increase your chances of spotting one of these ungainly creatures in the wild, you’ll need to know where to go. We’ve got you covered with our list of the best scenic rides in Aroostook County, Maine, to spot a moose in the wild! It is not uncommon to spot more than one moose at a time here.
We’ve got you covered with our list of the best scenic rides in Aroostook County, Maine, to spot a moose in the wild!
Route 161 – Moose Alley
- Follow route 161 north of Caribou to Fort Kent. This section of roadway features several large, flashing, billboard-sized Moose Crossing signs due to the high number of moose in this area.
Route 161 Google Maps
Route 11 – Ashland to Patten
- This State Route runs through Aroostook County and offers beautiful views of the countryside. Moose are frequently seen along this road, especially early in the morning and in the evening.
Aroostook Scenic Highway Google Maps
The Full Route 11 Corridor
- Aroostook County also is home to lots of moose and the full State Route 11 corridor from northernmost Penobscot County in Brownville all the way to Fort Kent should provide ample opportunities to see them. Again, moose can appear suddenly out of the tree line, so keep your eyes peeled, particularly at night and in wetland areas.
Route 11 Google Maps
North Maine Woods - The Allagash Wilderness Waterway
- This 92-mile waterway is located in the heart of Aroostook County and offers an excellent chance to see moose. The best way to experience the waterway is by canoe or kayak, but there are also many scenic drives in the area.
Little Black Gate of North Maine Woods Google Maps
Grand Lake Road - Katahdin Woods & Waters National Scenic Byway
- This 89-mile drive takes you through the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument and offers many opportunities to see wildlife, including moose. The drive takes you through forests, rivers, and mountains, offering stunning views of the landscape.
Seboeis River Trails Google Maps
Secret Spots
When all else fails, ask the locals! When you arrive in The County, take the time to chat with the people who call Aroostook County home. Most will have a story or two to share about their favorite moose locations; maybe you’ll even spot a moose walking through Main Street.
Pro Tips
Look for moose in one of their favorite habitats – meadows with wetlands or bogs. Moose stand in water to deter summer flies and eat the lush vegetation that is plentiful between May and September. Plan your trip accordingly, the best time of day for a moose sighting is half an hour after sunrise and before sunset.
Look for moose in one of their favorite habitats – meadows with wetlands or bogs. Moose stand in water to deter summer flies and eat the lush vegetation that is plentiful between May and September. Plan your trip accordingly; the best time of day for a moose sighting is half an hour after sunrise and before sunset.
Remember to drive slowly, especially in areas where moose are known to frequent, and keep a safe distance from these majestic animals. Also, be sure to respect their natural habitat and avoid approaching them too closely.
