Pond Pitch Campsite
Open. This backcountry campsite has no road access; reach it by hiking 3 miles from Haskell Gate or by paddling the East Branch. No toilet or potable water on site. Campfires require a Maine Forest Service permit.
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.
Special Weather Statement issued May 23 at 5:27AM EDT by NWS Caribou ME
* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid to upper 60s 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!
About
Pond Pitch Campsite sits along the wild East Branch of the Penobscot River within Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. The site overlooks Pond Pitch, one of several dramatic waterfalls and rapids in the Grand Falls series where the river drops over 200 feet in its first 10 miles. The campsite is named for the pool just above the ledge of the waterfall. This is a true backcountry experience with no road access. Campers must hike or bike 3 miles from Haskell Gate trailhead (6 miles round-trip, 140 feet elevation gain) or paddle the East Branch. The site accommodates up to 5 people and features a metal fire ring and wooden picnic table on leveled dirt and gravel. There is no toilet, no potable water, no food storage locker, and no cell service. Campfires require a valid Maine Forest Service permit and firewood must be sourced locally within 10 miles. Leave No Trace principles apply: pack out all trash and waste.
Directions
From Haskell Gate, hike or bike 3 miles south along the International Appalachian Trail. Alternatively, paddle the East Branch of the Penobscot River. No vehicle access to the campsite.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| 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
Community Posts
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