Ghost Trains in Maine? Seems like every part of the US has amazing landmarks or destinations with some epic-looking feature. From coast to coast, adventure seekers like myself have been drawn to seek out the hidden and sometimes forgotten treasures of the world. As popularity in overlanding has grown over the years, many of these landmarks, hidden features and works of art have become a playground for many to visit. Some of these destinations have gone from a secret spot to a global hot spot that seems to trend on social media, then they get left alone. Maine or the East Coast is no exception, but we seem to be a little more forgotten. With social media as large as it is and with the popularity of overlanding taking the west coast by storm, it is no surprise that the East Coast is left in the dark more often than not.
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Why is the East Coast in the dark?
How to explore the North Maine Woods.
One big factor that the West Coast has over the east is the availability of public lands. With many more national parks open with trails that reach all skill levels for off-roading and overlanders, it’s no surprise it has become the mecca for this growing hobby. The East Coast, and mainly Maine, deal with the complete opposite side of this. Maine, being 90% privately owned, makes adventuring extremely tricky and at best difficult. With little to no public trails or national parks open to offer such adventures, Maine becomes one of the trickiest places to explore. Fear not! With a little planning and understanding of the North Maine Woods rules and regs, anyone can enjoy exploring the back country of Maine.
Now it’s time! Word has it one can see two steam locomotives lost in the North Maine Woods, but wait - what is the North Maine Woods? Well, glad you asked. The North Maine Woods is 3.5 million acres of wilderness between two of the wildest rivers in the northeast, the Saint John and Allagash. With over 3,000 miles of dirt roads ranging from goat paths to dirt logging roads, you’ll have no shortage of fun and excitement while driving. You might even see a Maine moose! Owned by Maine’s big paper companies, the North Maine Woods is in the heart of the logging industry. Plan ahead; there is a charge to enter the North Maine Woods, and they accept cash or check only. So, are you ready to find the trains? Here are a couple different ways. Start by picking yourself up a Maine Gazetteer and get familiar with the legend and what the symbols stand for, then look for
