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.
Heat Advisory issued July 3 at 1:33PM EDT until July 3 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 95 expected today. * WHERE...Northern Penobscot and Southeast Aroostook Counties. * WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT this evening. * IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses.
Air Quality Alert issued July 2 at 3:15PM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
The Maine Department of Environmental Protection's Bureau of Air Quality has issued an Air Quality Alert for particle pollution until midnight EDT Sunday night. Particle pollution levels rose into the Unhealthy range earlier this afternoon and continue to be high. Smoke from fires in Quebec moved into Maine today. For the Northen region, people are advised to follow the health message if visibility is poor or they can smell smoke. The Maine Department of Environmental Protection recommends that individuals consider limiting strenuous outdoor physical activity to reduce the risk of adverse health effects. People who may be especially sensitive to the effects of elevated levels of pollutants include the very young, older adults, those who work outdoors, those with pre-existing respiratory problems such as asthma, and those with heart disease. It is okay to be active outdoors. But if you experience symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, throat irritation or an uncomfortable sensation in your chest, please consider limiting the intensity and duration of your outdoor activities. A toll free air quality hotline has been established so Maine residents can stay informed on the air quality situations. The toll free number is: 1-800-223-1196. Additionally the Maine Department of Environmental Protection has the air quality forecast available on the web at www.maine.gov/dep/air/aqforecast.
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.
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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