Introduction

The Maine Woods is a series of essays documenting the famous American philosopher and writer, Henry David Thoreau’s journey through the Maine wilderness. At that time, the region was fairly unknown but Thoreau always had an unwavering curiosity. With his canoe, supplies, and companions, he navigated his way through the Maine water systems to various destinations. Thoreau thoroughly documented his experiences taking note of the flora, fauna, geography, Native American culture, and adding some of his philosophical perspective. This itinerary seeks to highlight an area of the United States that I think is often overlooked as a travel destination. This area is rich in American history, culture, and nature. Maybe I am being a bit biased as I just recently returned from the northeast which inspired me to dig a little deeper into these States and create this itinerary.

Boston

Boston is filled with American history and served as a home base location for Thoreau where he often began or ended his expeditions so naturally this would be the proper starting spot. Travelers will be able to soak in the rich Bostonian culture, the old colonial feel, and try some local food favorites. The Northend of Boston is a great spot to explore with each turn uncovering an area with deep historical significance. Be sure to walk the Paul Revere Mall where a mounted Revere looks on and just nearby is the Old North Church built in 1723 which was the first stop on Revere’s fateful midnight ride. If travelers are looking for a quick bite or something easy to take on the road be sure to stop at Monica’s Mercato, a premier sandwich shop in Boston serving high quality ingredients. For the sweet tooth, make your way to Bova’s family owned bakery where they have just about everything but be sure to at least add a cannoli to your order. 

The North End is just a sliver of what Boston has to offer. Travelers can walk along the harbor stopping by the New England aquarium or even booking a sunset cruise on a classic looking sailboat. Just across the Charles river sits Charlestown, another well known Bostonian neighborhood. Here you will find the Bunker Hill Monument commemorating one of the first major battles between the American Patriots and the British. Finish the night with a pint at Warren Tavern which was founded in 1780 and a frequented spot by some of America’s biggest historical names including George Washington. These spots just scratch the surface of what travelers can experience exploring Boston. It’s interesting to reflect on how much the city has changed over the years and imagine the early Americans walking these streets. 

Concord

Just thirty minutes outside of Boston travelers will find this true American town which has its name inked in American history for a few reasons. Travelers should visit the Minute Man National Historic Park, the location for one of the first battles of the American Revolutionary war. Stroll the park grounds and the Battle Road trail to transport back through time. Not only is Concord a revolutionary site but also home to some of the greatest American literary minds including Thoreau. He spent nearly his entire life in this town where he wrote some of his most popular and impactful texts including Walden and Civil Disobedience. Travelers can actually visit Walden Pond which inspired Thoreau’s work and even take a dip in the waters just as he did. As travelers are wrapping up their time in Concord be sure to pay your respects to Thoreau’s final resting spot in the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.

Portland

When Thoreau would begin his journeys to the Maine backwoods he would often take a steamboat from Boston to Bangor. I wouldn’t expect many people to do the same, so I decided to add in a stop to Portland, Maine to help break up the road trip. Portland is about an hour and forty five minutes from Concord and will allow travelers to get the most out of this experience while they are driving through the Northeast. This bustling port city is a great stop for travelers to stretch their legs, take some photos, and have a beer. The Allagash Brewery is a great spot offering a wide variety of beers as well as a nice outdoor area to enjoy. The Allagash brewery’s name is actually inspired from the Allagash River in northern Maine which was one of Thoreau’s destinations during his 1857 adventure. Make sure to stop by Fort Williams park where travelers will be able to capture some picturesque photos of the famous Portland Head Light standing tall against the crashing waves. And if you are not convinced, be sure to check out some of the photos below!

Bangor

Bangor will be the final Northeast city stop on this journey sitting just two hours away from Portland. It was here, in which Thoreau used this town as a launch point for his excursions into the Maine backwoods. This quaint city was once a major lumber city but has since moved on due to its harsh impact on the environment. There is even a giant statue of the American Folklore character, Paul Bunyan to pay tribute to Bangor’s logging past. Thoreau would often refer to the industry in Bangor and reflect on its impact on the surrounding environment. The town also has many unique Victorian style homes, one of which is home to another famous writer Stephen King. Take a moment to enjoy this quiet town and prepare for the next leg of the journey as travelers will be heading into the Maine wilderness just as Thoreau did before.

Katahdin Mountain

As travelers cruise away from Bangor take note of the changing scenery for the three hour drive to Mount Katahdin. When Thoreau first set foot out for this journey he noted how the sight of wild fir and spruce tops exhilarated him and I would like to think travelers will experience the same feeling of adventure. Mount Katahdin is the tallest mountain in Maine and has held major significance in the region for centuries attracting attention from the native population, explorers, and thrill seekers. Thoreau notes that its name is derived from the Native Americans of the region meaning highest land as Katahdin overlooks the lush green landscape. Mount Katahdin is located within Baxter State Park which started as a personal project from former Governor Percival Baxter who wanted cement space for the people of Maine to connect to their great state’s wilderness. 

The state park has eight roadside campgrounds throughout the park which can be booked through the state park website here and there are even options just outside the park. Now, I wouldn’t suggest trying to summit Mount Katahdin as Thoreau did because it can be strenuous and quite dangerous at times but there are many great trails in the park supplying great views. Wander through the trails appreciating the nature around you just as Thoreau did before. I would suggest the Little Abol Falls trail which is a very relaxed out and back route that leads right to a small waterfall putting hikers at just under 2 miles total. There are also numerous trails to choose from near the Roaring Brook Campground making it a great launch point for some serious hiking. There are multiple trails that will take you directly to Mount Katahdin but they are lengthy and higher level difficulty. 

Mount Katahdin was the first of the three expeditions Thoreau ventured on which took place in 1846. He would go on to explore the area around Chesuncook in 1853 and then the northern Allagash river and East Branch region in 1857. It goes to show just how fascinating this area was and still is as the famous American naturalist Thoreau would return time and time again. I decided to leave off the two other destinations from this itinerary as they are not part of public land and leads to complications when finding the safest possible sites to set up camp but Mount Katahdin is sure to leave travelers impressed.