Grand Pitch Lean-to
Open. Reservations are made through Recreation.gov. No potable water is available; bring your own supply or filter from natural sources. A Maine Forest Service campfire permit is required for fires. Hunting season begins August 23rd; wearing high-visibility clothing is advised on all monument land.
Special Weather Statement issued May 24 at 5:55AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid 60s to low 70s may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only around 50 degrees on Moosehead Lake and in the middle to upper 50s on smaller lakes and rivers. * The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. According to the Maine Warden Service, when the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could lose dexterity within minutes and be unable to accomplish simple tasks. Anyone on small boats, canoes or kayaks should plan accordingly if recreating this weekend and use extreme caution to avoid this threat. Paddle smart from the start and always wear your life jacket!
Special Weather Statement issued May 24 at 5:55AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid 60s to low 70s may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only around 50 degrees on Moosehead Lake and in the middle to upper 50s on smaller lakes and rivers. * The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. According to the Maine Warden Service, when the water temperature is below 60 degrees, the average submerged person could lose dexterity within minutes and be unable to accomplish simple tasks. Anyone on small boats, canoes or kayaks should plan accordingly if recreating this weekend and use extreme caution to avoid this threat. Paddle smart from the start and always wear your life jacket!
Katahdin Overlook Closure
The Katahdin Overlook is currently closed for construction. Visitors are not permitted in the overlook area due to construction hazards. It is still possible to access anything else on the loop road.
Impassable Bridge Near Big Spring Brook Hut
There is an impassable collapsed bridge near Big Spring Brook Hut located at the north section of the monument (46.0333633333, -68.7807583333). This area is impassable by foot traffic and bike.
Bridge Repairs and Closures
Seboeis River Bridge will be closed to traffic August 27-29 for repairs. This will impact travel into the Seboeis parcel via Charlie's Rd. A bridge over Ragged Brook will be closed September 2-4 for repairs and impact travel towards Philpott Bridge.
Increased Logging Activity on Swift Brook Road
Logging trucks and other large machinery will be active on Swift Brook Road for an undetermined amount of time. Please use caution when driving. Always pull over for logging trucks, and wait until dust has cleared to continue moving.
Hunting Season Begins August 23rd
Hunting season is upon us! Please stay alert and be mindful of the rights of lawful hunters. Hunting is permitted only East of the East Branch of the Penobscot River, but it is advised to wear high visibility clothing on all monument land.
About
Grand Pitch Lean-to offers a remote backcountry camping experience in Maine's Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. This three-sided wooden shelter is positioned along the International Appalachian Trail and Grand Pitch Portage, roughly 215 feet from the East Branch Penobscot River. The lean-to sits near Grand Pitch, one of the most impressive waterfalls along the first 10 miles of the river's flow through the monument. Reaching the lean-to requires either a 3.6-mile hike from Haskell Gate via the International Appalachian Trail or paddling the East Branch. The site accommodates up to 6 people and features a fire ring and pit toilet. There is no potable water within the monument; campers must bring their own supply or filter from natural sources. All trash must be packed out. Campfires require a valid Maine Forest Service permit and may only be kindled in the provided fire ring. Firewood must be sourced locally within 10 miles to prevent spread of invasive insects. The grassy clearing around the lean-to provides good stargazing opportunities, and there is no cell service in this area.
Directions
3.6 miles south of Haskell Gate along the International Appalachian Trail. The site can also be reached by paddling the East Branch Penobscot River. No vehicle access.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (207) 456-6001 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Photos
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