Borestone Mountain Audubon Sanctuary

Description:
This Maine Audubon Sanctuary encompasses 1640 mountainous acres and is adjacent to Lake Onawa, Barren Mt. and the Appalachian Trail. The Moore Nature Center at Sunrise Pond is located one and one-half miles up the mountain from the trailhead and features interpretive displays and information on the natural and cultural history of Borestone Mountain. Adirondack style lodges between Midday and Sunset Ponds are unique in design and serve as a retreat center for adults.

The hike up Borestone Mountain is three miles to the rocky East Peak which offers a spectacular 360 degree view extending from the Penobscot River to the east, to the western Maine Mountains and the Quebec border to the west. Coniferous and deciduous forests around the mountain provide habitat for a variety of warblers, goshawks, grouse and pine martin. Other wildlife frequently sighted includes raccoons, owls, woodpeckers, eagles, falcons and turkey vultures. Moss, lichens, wildflowers and mushrooms are some of the flora that may be experienced in the various seasons.

The hike begins at the trailhead near the gate on the Bodfish Road and follows a trail 1.3 miles up to the visitor’s center. From that point the hike continues on a rocky, steep trail for 1 mile to the open ledge of West Peak. The blazed trail continues 0.5 miles to the East Peak, elevation of 2,200 feet.

Season: This site is open to the public 365 days a year, but is only staffed from Memorial Day to Columbus Day. The purpose of this site is to connect people with nature!

Special Notes of Interest:

Important Natural/Cultural/Heritage Links:

www.mainebirdingtrail.com/Birding_Moosehead.pdf

www.maineaudubon.org/explore/centers/borestone.shtml

Additional Information:

Directions: From Monson driving north: As you leave Monson Village, there is a sign to Borestone Mt. via the Elliottsville Road. Turn right and follow this road for about 8 miles. After crossing the bridge over Wilson Stream at Big Wilson Falls, take an immediate left after the bridge at the Borestone directional sign. Continue uphill and carefully cross the railroad tracks near the old Bodfish Station. Just uphill form the RR crossing you will see the entrance to Borestone Mountain Sanctuary on the right, and a parking area on the left of the road.