Hiking & Camping
EPI encourages the public to visit the sanctuaries for hiking, backpacking and no-trace camping. A number of trails, campsites, and shelters or lean-tos are maintained in the sanctuaries, and many opportunities for these activities exist on adjacent lands. Some suggested sanctuary areas to explore are provided below.
Hikers in the sanctuaries are cautioned not to rely on the existence of signs, directional markings, or other identification on the trails, and safety is the hiker's responsibility. Campers are encouraged to use designated campsites or lean-tos, and fires and cooking devices are permitted within Maine Forest Service restrictions. Pets and service animals are allowed on EPI property if under owner control by voice command, leash or harness. Owners must make all precautions to avoid disturbing wildlife. Everything brought onto EPI lands must be carried out, including litter.
The Appalachian Trail
A 7-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail (AT) runs through the Appalachian Trail Sanctuary. Part of the 100-mile wilderness, this section of trail crosses Little Wilson and Big Wilson streams and provides access to the Little Wilson Falls, a striking slate gorge with a 57-foot waterfall. One lean-to is available on this section as the trail climbs toward the Barren Chairback Range, a traverse of five open peaks with cliffs, mountain tarns, and spruce fir dominated forests. The intersection with Maine Highway 15, which is 4 miles north of Monson, is the southend point of access.
International Appalachian Trail/Sentier International des Appalaches
A 30-mile section of the International Appalachian Trail/Sentier International des Appalaches (IAT/SIA) crosses the East Branch sanctuary, beginning at Baxter State Park and running north to Grand Lake Matagamon. This section of trail, which traverses Deasey (1,964 feet) and Lunksoos (1,811 feet) mountains, incorporates portions of two historic trails--the Deasey Mountain Fire Lookout Trail and an earlier Appalachian Trail built in the 1880s, which ran along the Wassataquoik Tote Road from the East Branch to the summit of Katahdin. The summits of Deasey and Lunksoos provide expansive views of Katahdin to the west. Three new lean-tos have been built along the trail, and the north end provides access to 17 campsites and portage trails along the spectacular East Branch of the Penobscot River. Access points are Baxter State Park via the Katahdin Lake Trail on the southend and the Matagamon Gate off of Grand Lake Road on the north.