Remote wilderness sanctuary with dark skies, aurora viewing, and moose
Swift Brook Rd, Stacyville, ME 04777 Get directions

"I include Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine as one of the best places in the contiguous U.S. to see the northern lights beyond Alaska." - Stefanie Waldek

"I count this monument in Maine among the best places in the contiguous U.S. (beyond Alaska) to see the northern lights." - Stefanie Waldek

"With exceptionally dark skies and lots of rural surroundings, this national monument in Maine is ideal for aurora viewing and is a designated International Dark Sky Place by DarkSky International, making it a top choice for mid-latitude aurora hunters." - Stefanie Waldek
"A designated Dark Sky Sanctuary in Maine, this remote national monument features exceptionally low light pollution and expansive night-sky views, making it one of the best eastern U.S. locations to see auroras when solar activity permits." - Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca Stacey Leasca is an award-winning journalist and co-founder of Be a Travel Writer, an online course for the next generation of travel journalists. Her photos, videos, and words have appeared in print or online for Travel + Leisure, Time, Los Angeles Times, Glamour, and many more. You'll usually find her in an airport. If you do see her there, please say hello. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

"An expansive, pristine public land of roughly 87,500 acres offering remote wilderness recreation and scenic landscapes in the highlands, ideal for visitors seeking backcountry solitude and natural vistas." - AFAR