Explore the Ice Caves in the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area

A wooden sign orients hikers to the ice caves in Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area. Photo © Josh Royte/TNC

Date:
Saturday, August 15, 2009

Time:
11:00 am to 3:00 pm

Overview:
The Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area is a 46,271-acre Ecological Reserve that ties together more than 750,000 acres of conserved lands in the Katahdin Region. Ecological Reserves form important islands of diversity within the context of Maine’s working forest. The property is best known for containing the highest concentration of pristine, remote ponds in New England. These include Rainbow Lake, its entire watershed, and the string of Debsconeag Lakes. The word Debsconeag means “carrying place,” so named by indigenous people who identified portage sites where they had to carry their birchbark canoes over rapids and waterfalls. The Debsconeag area contains thousands of acres of mature forests, some of which has not been harvested in modern times (70 to 100 years) and is haven for moose, black bear, bobcat and deer.

The hike will cover a new trail opened in the fall of 2009 and traverse forests strewn with enormous glacial boulders while offering spectacular views of Mount Katahdin. The Ice Cave and JoMary Mountain overlook reward hikers with a unique destination. This is a moderate hike of approximately 2.5 miles round trip through moderately rolling terrain and is limited to 20 participants per hike.  As space is limited, reservations are required. 

To Register: 
Please email maine_events@tnc.org, indicate which trip, the number and names of participants and your contact information.

Guide:
Dirk Dewley, Northern Maine Land Steward

How to Prepare for the Hike:
Bring a beverage, plenty of water and a lunch to enjoy at the overlook. Also bring binoculars, camera, field guides, sunscreen, bug dope, etc., to make your day more enjoyable. Rain or shine, so dress for the weather. Long pants and sturdy shoes are recommended.

Directions:
Allow 45 minutes to arrive at the trail head from Millinocket by taking the State Road out of Millinocket toward Baxter Park. Cross onto the Golden Road at Ambajejus Lake and drive with caution yielding to log trucks.  Follow the Golden Road 20 or 30 minutes to the "Abol Bridge" crossing of the Penobscot River, West Branch. Cross Abol Bridge and take an immediate left into a wide gravel area that funnels into the "Hurd Pond Road" (not labeled). Follow the Hurd Pond road about 4 miles (stay straight/left at the only intersection) to the gate where parking is available.  A copy of the Delorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer is recommended. Meet at the Hurd Pond Gate at 11:00 a.m.