Lunksoos Mountain Lean-to
Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations required. No potable water available; bring your own or filter from natural sources. Campfires permitted only in the NPS-provided fire ring. Note: Pets are not allowed in or near lean-tos.
Heat Advisory issued July 2 at 2:36PM EDT until July 3 at 8:00PM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* WHAT...Heat index values up to 95 to 100 expected today and Friday. * WHERE...Northern Penobscot and Southeast Aroostook Counties. * WHEN...Until 8 PM EDT Friday. * 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
Lunksoos Mountain Lean-to provides a true backcountry experience in the heart of Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. The three-sided shelter sits along the International Appalachian Trail, roughly half a mile from the summit of Lunksoos Mountain. From the peak, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of forests, rivers, and mountains including Katahdin itself. The geological significance of the area includes pillow lavas near the summit, formed by ancient underwater volcanic eruptions. Reaching the lean-to requires a challenging 6.3-mile hike from the Wassataquoik Gate trailhead, with 1,332 feet of elevation gain. The route includes a stream crossing at Wassataquoik Ford that may be difficult during high water. The monument's roads are gravel with ruts and potholes; a higher-clearance vehicle is recommended. As a designated site within an International Dark Sky Sanctuary, Lunksoos Mountain Lean-to offers outstanding night sky viewing. The lean-to includes a firepit and picnic table. A vault toilet is available, but there is no potable water; visitors must bring their own supply or filter from natural sources. Cell service is unreliable to nonexistent throughout the monument.
Directions
From Patten, Maine, take Route 159 south toward Shin Pond. Continue to the monument's Swift Brook Road entrance. Follow gravel roads to Wassataquoik Gate trailhead. From the trailhead, hike 6.3 miles on the International Appalachian Trail to reach the lean-to. The route includes a ford crossing at Wassataquoik Stream. A higher-clearance vehicle is recommended for monument roads.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| 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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