Aroostook County is a great place to explore, and with legendary rail trails as part of the 2,300-mile trail network, there are safe and simple trailhead parking places to trailer your snowmobile/ATV here. In The County, most trails are part of our multi-use trail system. This means you may find a horse trailer or even a dog sled transport in the parking lot. Whether you're out on foot, ATV, or snowmobile, you'll want to know the best spots to leave your vehicle and start your adventure. Here, we'll show you the top trailhead parking places in Aroostook County and give tips for respecting the space and following the rules. So grab your gear; it’s time to hit the trails!

Aroostook County Snowmobile Map: View Now

Aroostook County ATV Map: View Now

Major Rail-Trails Include:

• Aroostook Valley Trail
• Southern Bangor and Aroostook Trail
• St. John Valley Heritage Trail

Best Trailhead Parking Places

• Presque Isle
  • Aroostook Centre Mall/Lowes - 830 Main Street, Presque Isle, Maine
  • A lit parking lot attaches the two shopping areas; there, you will find trail access and safe parking.
  • Accesses ITS 88
• Caribou
  • Otter Brook Parking Area - 10 Otter Street, Caribou, Maine
  • The lit parking area is safe for overnight parking and features a picnic area and trash cans.
  • Accesses ITS 90
• Van Buren
  • Corner of US Route 1 and Maine Street - 25 Main Street, Van Buren, Maine
  • Accesses ITS 81
• Portage Lake
  • Municipal Building/Coffins General Store - 20 School Street, Portage Lake, Maine
  • Lit parking area safe for overnight parking
  • Accesses ITS 85
• Fort Kent
  • Lonesome Pine Trails - 2 Forest Avenue, Fort Kent, Maine
  • Accesses St. John Valley Heritage Trail, ITS 85
• Madawaska
  • Madawaska Snowmobile Club - 19 Fournier Road, Madawaska, Maine
  • Midtown Shopping Center - 337 Main Street, Madawaska, Maine
  • Accesses ITS 83C
• Houlton
  • Irving Big Stop - 267 North Street, Houlton, Maine
  • Accesses ITS 86/83
• Sherman
  • Shell Station - 98 Main Street, Sherman, Maine
  • Accesses ITS 83B
• Ashland
  • Ashland 1 Stop – 117 Main Street, Ashland, Maine
  • Accesses ITS 88
• Island Falls
  • Birch Point Campgrounds – 33 Birch Point Lane, Island Falls, Maine
  • Another option exists at Vacationland Estates and the Slice Restaurant
  • Accesses 54
• St. Agatha
  • Lake View Restaurant - 9 Lakeview Drive, St. Agatha, Maine
  • Accesses ITS 83

Be Respectful of Parking Places

When parking your vehicle, ATV, or snowmobile at any of the trailhead parking spots throughout Aroostook County, it’s important to be respectful of the space. Not all suggested areas are well-lit or feature trash cans. Here are a few tips on how to do so:

• Abide by signage: Look for signage discouraging parking or directing traffic; this keeps parking areas orderly and makes space for others. Ask the cashier or worker if parking is permitted when parking at a business.
• Stay on marked trails: Follow the designated pathways to avoid damaging landscaping and soft soil. Sticking to trails reduces the risk of future trail closures.
• Pack out what you bring in: Do not leave any trash or food scraps behind. Bring a trash bag with you and dispose of your waste properly.
• Follow safety guidelines: Check your machine for safety before you leave the parking area, and ensure you pack basic supplies such as snacks, extra fuel, and first aid. Bring a map and make a plan; tell others where you are going and stick to it.
• Trail etiquette: Always ride safe and ride right. Never drink and ride. Yield to pedestrians, skiers, dog sleds, and horseback riders. Remember, they can hear you, but you can’t hear them.

Following these simple tips ensures that your trailhead parking experience is enjoyable and respectful for everyone involved. Remember, it’s the generosity of local landowners and businesses that parking sites exist - keep them tidy to ensure they are open for seasons to come. Happy exploring!