An interpretive map to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument has been published by the monument's friends group/Friends of Katahdin Woods and WAters

Planning to visit Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine? There's now a map that can help you navigate the monument.

Published by Friends of Katahdin Woods & Waters, the nonprofit organization founded in January to raise private funds for Maine’s new national monument, the full-color road map lists viewpoints, campsites, parking, restrooms, natural features and more.

“Though not yet a year old, the organization is already making donations to supplement—not replace—federal funding for Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument,” said Lucas St. Clair, board president of Friends of Katahdin Woods & Waters. “This $5,000 project was made possible entirely through member donations. We heartily thank our charter-year donors, whose monetary contributions we are converting into tangible improvements in, and services to, the monument.”

Designed by cartographer Bill Duffy of Northern Geomantics, the 18-by-24-inch folded map has on its front side a precision topographic map showing trails, roads, rivers and other loop area features. Interpretive text and photos keyed to scenic and historic stops occupy the reverse.

Friends of Katahdin Woods & Waters board member Anita Mueller, who directed the map project, said, “With stops along the 16-mile Loop Road, the interpretive map provides context to the historical, biological, and geological significance of the Monument’s southern landscape and highlights recreation opportunities including birding, biking and hiking, all adding value to the visitor experience.”

Monument Superintendent Tim Hudson said the map will be a great aid to visitors learning how to explore Katahdin Woods and Waters.

The Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Loop Road Interpretive Map is available free at the Monument’s Millinocket and Patten Visitor Contact Stations, also at Katahdin Area Chamber of Commerce and along the Loop Road. An electronic version can be viewed at www.friendsofkatahdinwoodsandwaters.org and on the free-for-download Discover Katahdin visitor’s app.