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Bird Watching

Terrain

Western Maine is home to hundreds of bird species, and the huts offer the perfect vantage point to observe them in their native habitat. Birding experts rave about the unique landscape that attracts a wide variety of birds:

“The climate in this picturesque region is relatively severe. Northern hardwoods cover many of the sheltered slopes, but a boreal forest of spruce and fir dominates the exposed and higher elevation areas. Spruce grouse, black-backed woodpecker, yellow-bellied flycatcher, northern raven, gray jay, boreal chickadee, winter wren, Swainson’s and gray-cheeked thrushes, golden-crowned kinglet, blackpoll warbler, white-throated sparrow, and dark-eyed junco are all among the characteristic birds to be found here.

Many of the species that live in this region are among the most sought after by birders from all over the country. Although many of these birds are comparatively tame and allow close approach, they typically live in remote places that require some hiking.”  —Maine Audubon

Birders can expect trails of mild to moderate difficulty with just a few miles from each trailhead to the nearest hut and approximately 12 miles when traveling directly between huts. Some birders choose to explore the Bigelow Preserve or venture onto the Appalachian Trail, which crosses the Maine Huts & Trails network.

Trail Conditions

Regardless of the season, our social media pages are the best way to get up-to-date trail information. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates.

Suggested Routes

Shore Trail by Flagstaff Lake Hut: Pileated Woodpeckers dwell in the lakeside forest. Listen for their distinctive high, clear, series of piping calls that lasts several seconds. Also keep an eye out for Belted Kingfishers and Eastern Wood-Pewees.

Upper Newton’s Revenge and Oak Knoll at Stratton Brook Hut: Listen for Red-Eyed and Philadelphia Vireos in the tall birch trees. Also heard: Hermit Thrush, Yellow-Rumped Warblers and Pileated Woodpeckers.

Warren’s Trail and Larry’s Trail along Poplar Stream: The woods along Poplar Stream are teeming with wildlife. Chickadees, various woodpeckers, Kinglets, Warblers, Sparrows and Winter Wrens.

Best Maine Hut Destinations for Bird Watching

  • Stratton Brook Hut Image of the Stratton Brook Hut with wood sides after a snowfall with snow in the trees.

    Getting to Stratton Brook Hut requires a moderate ascent of just over 600ft of elevation. Visitors should be prepared for a hearty workout on the way up and a fun, fast descent on the way down. When to Visit Stratton Brook Hut Our eco-lodge is open primarily during our winter season (late December through mid […]

  • Poplar Stream Hut The Poplar Falls Hut with tan wood siding and a metal roof in winter. A cross country ski trail is in the foreground.

    Poplar Stream Hut is the closest hut to our Kingfield office and can be accessed from the Airport Trailhead in Carrabassett Valley. Reaching the hut requires crossing land owned by the Penobscot Indian Nation and leased by Maine Huts & Trails. Please be respectful of the land and wildlife as you enjoy a gentle ascent […]

  • Flagstaff Lake Hut Arriving at Flagstaff Hut

    A two mile hike from the trailhead will deliver you to a picturesque lakeside vista before reaching the hut where you can kick back and relax. Our most popular hut, Flagstaff is a great “first hut” for new visitors and for wildlife enthusiasts. Birders will see kingfishers, loons, and pileated woodpeckers. Deer, beavers, and playful […]

  • Grand Falls Hut (Closed)

    Winter travel makes Grand Falls Hut a true backcountry experience. Best accessed by skiers and fat bikers, travelers will enjoy the breathtaking Northern Maine views. To Access Grand Falls Hut during the summer, please use Lower Enchanted or Big Eddy Trailhead. West Forks is not recommended. Grand Falls Hut Amenities Hot showers, sinks with mirrors, and composting toilets Access […]