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aine's 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.
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Motorized Recreational Trailhead Parking Places
In Aroostook County, most trails are part of our ITS 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. Parking at a Snowmobile Clubhouse or ATV Clubhouse is always an option, but there are times those parking areas are full. Here, we'll outline the top public trailhead parking places in The County and give tips for respecting the space and following the rules. So grab your gear; it’s time to hit Aroostook's famous trails!
Aroostook County Snowmobile Map: View Now
Aroostook County ATV Map: View Now
Major Rail-Trails of The ITS System Include:
Photo Credit: Kevin Ray by way of utvdriver.com
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
- Park and Ride Area - Station Street, Portage Lake, Maine
- 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!
The ITS Trail System is a multi-use trail. Ride right. Remember dog sleds, skiers, and bikers can hear your snowmobile or atv - but you can't hear them. Slow down and give space.
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Bill Sheehan ‘The Bird Man’, is an outdoor adventure writer and avid birder based in Maine’s Aroostook County. A lifelong Mainer, Bill has spent more than a decade exploring northern Maine’s landscapes in search of rare and iconic species, including snowy owls. As a member of the Aroostook Birders, he brings deep knowledge of wildlife, seasonal migration, and remote viewing locations. His work highlights unique outdoor experiences like birdwatching and canoeing in Maine’s quiet wilderness areas. Whether scanning open fields or forest edges, Bill knows where to look. Start planning your vacation to see moose in New England >
Kim Smith is a food and culture contributor based in Presque Isle in Maine’s Aroostook County. Born in Houlton, she has become a well-known local voice through her work as president of the Presque Isle Historical Society and Chair of Aroostook County Tourism. Kim specializes in Aroostook’s rich history, local traditions, and storytelling—from spooky tales to community heritage. She was recognized in 2026 by the Spirit of America Foundation for her volunteerism and community impact. When not sharing local flavor, she’s curating the local museums and documenting the history of Aroostook. Start planning a wicked rich cultural tour in northern Maine >
Jacob Pelkey is an outdoor storyteller of ATV and snowmobile trails Maine’s Aroostook County. With eight years of experience living and exploring the region, Jacob writes about year-round adventure like Nordic skiing at the Fort Kent Outdoor center, Muskie in the St. John River, and drumming at the Mawiomi of Tribes. He is a board member of the Can Am International Dog Sled Races, Four Directions Development Corporation and Tourism Developer for Aroostook County Tourism. Jacob was recognized as an Aroostook Achiever for his work in northern Maine farmers’ markets and storytelling. He never misses maple syrup season. Start planning your trip to see the northern lights in Maine >
Christina Kane-Gibson is a family travel and events writer based in Caribou in Maine’s Aroostook County. After returning from Texas to raise her two boys, she has become a leading voice on family fun in Maine, from beaches and splash pads to seasonal festivals and competitions. Christina works with the Mi’kmaq Nation and has served on Aroostook County Tourism and the Central Aroostook Chamber of Commerce boards. She is a recipient of the Maine Governor’s Award for Tourism Excellence for pioneering the City of Caribou’s popular Thursdays on Sweden Street event series. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her exploring potato blossom fields. Start planning your next family adventure in northern Maine >
Steve Dobson is a lifelong Mainer and dedicated advocate for tourism in Maine’s Aroostook County. A retired hotel owner and current campground operator, Steve brings decades of experience in hospitality and deep knowledge of northern Maine travel. He serves on the boards of the Maine Tourism Association and Aroostook County Tourism as Vice Chair, with expertise in the North Maine Woods, Loring Air Force Base, and is a vice of local history and fun facts. Known for his passion for antique automobiles and backroad exploration, Steve is an expert in the parks, museums, and historic sites on the National Scenic Byways. Start planning a vacation to visit Steve's favorite places in New England >
Judy Dinsmore is a lifelong Aroostook County local, born in Fort Fairfield and based in Caribou in Maine’s Aroostook County. Since 2001, she has worked in visitor relations with Aroostook County Tourism, helping thousands discover fun things to do in northern Maine - from craft fairs and Presque Isle’s First Friday Art Walk to the best places to shop and eat. Known as the voice behind the “Call Judy” tourism line, she’s attended every signature event in the region and knows each trailhead and local gem inside and out. Start planning your family fun in Maine with Judy’s trusted insight.
