Piscataquis County, Maine: Explore Maine’s Wilderness Heartland of Lakes, Trails, and Adventure
The Hometowns of Piscataquis County, Maine
Welcome to Piscataquis County, Maine
Piscataquis County is the wild heart of Maine, offering visitors vast forests, sparkling lakes, scenic byways, and charming small towns. As Maine’s least populated county, Piscataquis is where adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those looking to unplug find endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. From the shores of Moosehead Lake to the depths of the 100-Mile Wilderness, Piscataquis County is Maine at its most untamed and beautiful.
Location & Zip Codes
Piscataquis County is located in central and north-central Maine. Key ZIP codes within the county include 04441 (Greenville), 04426 (Dover-Foxcroft), 04443 (Abbot), 04463 (Milo), 04481 (Sebec), and many more covering its towns and plantations.
Historical Overview
Formed in 1838, Piscataquis County takes its name from the Piscataquis River, meaning "branch of the river" in the Penobscot Native American language. The region’s history is deeply tied to the logging industry, railroads, and early settlements who relied on the county’s rivers and forests for commerce. Today, while still rugged and rural, the county has become a premier destination for outdoor tourism, offering wilderness experiences, historic towns, and cultural attractions.
Top Things to Do in Piscataquis County, Maine
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Explore Moosehead Lake – Maine’s largest lake offers boating, fishing, wildlife watching, and scenic cruises.
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Hike the 100-Mile Wilderness – Part of the Appalachian Trail, it’s one of the most remote stretches of trail in the U.S.
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Climb Borestone Mountain Audubon Sanctuary – Hike to the summit for panoramic views of the region.
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Snowmobiling on the ITS Trail Network – Enjoy some of Maine’s best groomed snowmobiling trails.
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ATV Riding on the Moosehead Lake ATV Trail System – Explore scenic and rugged trails throughout the county.
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Visit the Katahdin Iron Works Historic Site – Explore the remains of Maine’s 19th-century iron smelting industry.
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Fishing on Sebec Lake, Schoodic Lake & Other Waters – Anglers will find trout, salmon, bass, and more.
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Moose Safari Tours in Greenville & Surrounding Areas – Guided tours to see Maine’s iconic moose.
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Camping at Lily Bay State Park – Lakeside camping on Moosehead Lake’s eastern shore.
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Attend the Annual Moosehead Lake International Snowmobile Festival – Celebrate Maine’s winter culture.
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Visit the Center Theatre in Dover-Foxcroft – Enjoy performances and cultural events.
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Explore Historic Downtown Dover-Foxcroft – Shop, dine, and experience small-town charm.
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Paddle the Piscataquis River Water Trail – A scenic river paddle with wildlife and gentle rapids.
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Stargazing in Remote Skies – With minimal light pollution, the county offers spectacular night skies.
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Hunting in the North Maine Woods – Experience premier deer, moose, bear, and upland bird hunting.
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Visit the Monson Arts Center & Galleries – A creative community at the gateway to the 100-Mile Wilderness.
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Ice Fishing on Moosehead, Schoodic, and Sebec Lakes – Classic Maine winter tradition.
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Explore the Town of Greenville – A hub for outdoor recreation and lakefront hospitality.
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Scenic Foliage Drives Along Moosehead Scenic Byway – Experience breathtaking fall colors.
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Visit Gulf Hagas – Maine’s Grand Canyon – Hike rugged trails and see spectacular waterfalls.
Lodging in Piscataquis County, Maine
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Wilson Pond Camps (Greenville) – Lakeside cabins perfect for fishing and relaxation.
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Moose Mountain Inn (Greenville) – Comfortable lodge with easy trail access.
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Kineo View Lodge (Greenville area) – Overlooks Moosehead Lake and Mount Kineo.
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Timberland Motel & Campground (Dover-Foxcroft) – Affordable accommodations with easy access to trails.
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Borestone Mountain Lodge (Guilford area) – Rustic lodging near Borestone Mountain.
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Various Lakeside Cabins, Camps, and Bed & Breakfasts – Scattered throughout the county.
Dining Suggestions in Piscataquis County, Maine
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Stress Free Moose Pub & Café (Greenville) – Local pub favorites and craft brews.
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Pat’s Pizza (Dover-Foxcroft) – Maine staple for pizza and comfort food.
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The Lakeshore House (Monson) – Lakeside dining with local fare and live music.
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Spring Creek BBQ (Monson) – Hearty barbecue in a cozy setting.
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Auntie M’s Restaurant (Greenville) – Classic Maine diner-style breakfast and lunch.
Piscataquis County by the Numbers (Based on Latest Census Data)
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Population: Approximately 16,800 residents
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Size: Roughly 4,000 square miles (largest county by land area in Maine)
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Density: About 4 people per square mile (Maine’s most sparsely populated county)
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Towns & Plantations: Includes Dover-Foxcroft, Greenville, Milo, Monson, Sebec, Shirley, Abbot, and more
Piscataquis County is defined by its vast, wild landscapes, tight-knit communities, and year-round outdoor adventures.
Answers to Top Search Queries About Piscataquis County, Maine
1. Where is Piscataquis County located?
In central and north-central Maine, bordered by Penobscot and Somerset Counties.
2. What is Piscataquis County known for?
Moosehead Lake, 100-Mile Wilderness, outdoor recreation, and being Maine’s least populated county.
3. What are the best outdoor activities in Piscataquis County?
Hiking, fishing, snowmobiling, ATV riding, hunting, and wildlife viewing.
4. What is the largest town in Piscataquis County?
Dover-Foxcroft, which also serves as the county seat.
5. Are there moose in Piscataquis County?
Yes, the area is known as one of Maine’s best regions for moose watching.
6. Where can you fish in Piscataquis County?
Moosehead Lake, Sebec Lake, Schoodic Lake, and the Piscataquis River are popular fishing spots.
7. What is the history of Piscataquis County?
Established in 1838, with a legacy in logging, railroads, and outdoor industries.
8. When is the best time to visit Piscataquis County?
Year-round, with summer and fall for outdoor recreation and foliage; winter for snowmobiling and ice fishing.
9. Are there public campgrounds in Piscataquis County?
Yes, including Lily Bay State Park, Moosehead Lake campsites, and remote wilderness camps.
10. What is the 100-Mile Wilderness?
A rugged, remote section of the Appalachian Trail running through the county, considered one of the trail’s most challenging stretches.
Comprehensive Summary
Piscataquis County, Maine, is an outdoor lover’s paradise offering unspoiled wilderness, scenic lakes, and charming small towns. With its iconic destinations like Moosehead Lake, the 100-Mile Wilderness, and Gulf Hagas, visitors will find world-class hiking, fishing, snowmobiling, and wildlife experiences. Whether you’re paddling remote waters, hiking mountain trails, exploring historic towns, or simply relaxing by a campfire under starry skies, Piscataquis County promises a true taste of Maine’s wild and rugged beauty. It’s a place to disconnect, explore, and rediscover the joy of the great outdoors.