Town of Fort Kent, Maine
Source: Town of Fort Kent, Maine Facebook
Town of Fort Kent from above
Welcome to Fort Kent, seated at the top of Maine! We’re 4000 residents strong with lots going on here that we’re happy to share with many, including our nearby Canadian neighbors. In fact, our fair town is seated on the shores of the magnificently lengthy St. John River that flows 410 miles from just east of Quebec City to the Bay of Fundy. The area holds ecological significance that is valued by our community.
Fort Kent also holds a special place in the history of Route 1 that came to be in 1925. Now though I don’t get much into history, we almost missed out on being the beginning of this roadway that goes all the way to Key West, Florida. Why, if you’re so inclined, you can begin an adventure-filled journey that begins right here, then take it as far south as you want
Exploring Fort Kent Maine
Being outside is a good place to begin talking about Fort Kent. You’ll quickly hear how much our community values our natural setting. This includes the ways local businesses and institutions promote our relationship with the natural world. A good place to start is the Fort Kent Riverside Trail System that’s a 3-mile, full-access system that also passes by the Fort Kent Blockhouse.
When you take a look at the trail map, you’ll be amazed at all the places you can access. Please take note of the hand-carry boat launches. Of course, you may want to get in touch with an outfitter and guide to help you navigate our fine waterway, including its rapids. Much the same can be said for taking advantage of the abundant fishing and hunting options you’ll find around Fort Kent. That includes the Fish River Lakes Region, known for its abundance of brook trout.
You can go to a number of places, such as Dean’s Den, for personalized service, or North Maine Woods that lists all kinds of guides and outfitters. One is Northern Hideaway Sporting Camps that has lodging plus guide services, whether you want to fish or hunt birds or big game. Or, be on the lookout for Track Em Down Lodge & Cabins for guide service and good food and company. Regardless who you go with, you’re in for adventure, story-telling, and lots of tips to bring with you on your next trip north to Maine’s crown jewel of a small city!
And yes, that means more outdoors time, regardless of the season. Lone Pine Trails is sure to suit your fancy for alpine skiing. They have night skiing a couple of evenings a week and several special events throughout the season. You can even pick up the trails to The Fort Kent Outdoor Center for Nordic skiing. Plus they have a snowshoe series to enjoy! It’s a friendly place made for family fun.
If you like to cruise for miles through a winter wonderland, be sure to check in on the Fort Kent SnoRiders Snowmobile Club. Before getting into some of the warm weather goin’s on with swimming, camping, and such, I’d like you to know about the Fort Kent Recreation & Parks Department. As you’ll see when you visit that page they do a dandy job of promoting the various venues maintained by the city. They sponsor a nice array of recreation too, much of it by the season, such as soccer in the fall.
Source: Fort Kent Outdoor Center Facebook
Fort Kent Outdoor Center
Where to Stay, Dine, and Shop
Even though we’re at the top of Maine, we’re fortunate to have every kind of lodging you could hope for. Of course, my main piece of advice is to plan ahead so you don’t lose out on your favorite.
St. John River Resort is a place that has lots to keep you happy, including a river beach right on the St. John, kayaks, canoes, and various types of room setups. Why, it’s even pet-friendly, something important to a lot of folks. If you like to travel by RV, be sure to check out Birch Haven Campground as they’re located on 18-mile long Eagle Lake, less than ½-hour away.
Northern Door Inn offers you a comfortable place to stay with pet-friendly options. An added feature is that several restaurants are within walking distance of their quiet setting right here in town. Plus, they’re in the know about events and adventures that will make your stay complete. There are also private cabins and camps in the area that you can locate with a google search.
Of course, you may be looking for a first-class sort of stay. If you follow the river east of here in just under ½-hour, you’ll come to Madawaska and the Inn of Acadia that offers fine dining along with beautifully appointed accommodations looking out on the St. John Valley vistas.
Although there are a number of good restaurants nearby, you may not find any websites. Check in with folks you meet as they’re likely to give you a clear description and opinion. We have a good variety of stores, from grocers and outdoor specialists to bookstores and kids’ places, so you can get what you need for backpack snacks, plus gear to wear, and something to read.
Education and Healthcare in Fort Kent
The University of Maine at Fort Kent has become an educational destination, garnering a host of recent awards for excellence and affordability. Added to that, the campus is handy to town with views of the Fish River and Lone Pine Trails ski slopes. These features add a lot to the academic experience just as an educational setting benefits the area.
The St. John Valley Technology Center is only 15 minutes away in Frenchville. Students are prepared for a number of career options, including automotive and advanced technologies, construction trades, and early childhood and health occupations, among others. This local asset lets young people get ready for a rewarding occupation right here!
Northern Maine Medical Center serves Aroostook County’s residents with its 49-bed facility and a staff that serves a wide range of health needs and interests. Other healthcare settings in the Fort Kent area include two health centers and a family planning clinic.
Thus, you can see that when you visit Fort Kent there’s a lot up here to do and learn. Added to that, there’s the promise you’ll get the sort of care and kindness we’re known for!
