Local Natural Wonders - Day 62

Local Natural Wonders Day 62 - Flagstaff Lake in Carrabassett Valley, Maine

At 20,300 acres, Flagstaff Lake is the 4th largest lake in Maine and is man-made (so it is not a natural wonder, but it has an interesting story). Where this lake lies was once Flagstaff Village and Dead River Plantation, but in 1950 the towns were flooded, creating Flagstaff Lake - a product of the era of hydroelectric power in Maine. In 1950 the Long Falls Dam was completed, which became important for regulating water flow into the Kennebec River Basin.

This lake captures runoff from 520 square miles of the Upper Dead River Watershed. Flagstaff Lake is part of the Northern Forest Canoe Trail, a historic 740-mile water-trail that flows through New York, Vermont, Quebec, New Hampshire, and Maine.

Flagstaff Lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking or canoeing, fishing and camping on one of several campsites. Flagstaff Hut offers beautiful accommodations on the east shore of Flagstaff Lake.

According to Maine’s Northwestern Mountains website:

Tenting is available free of charge at the Round Barn campsites on the shore of Flagstaff Lake. These sites are accessible by water or by a short trail originating from the vehicle parking lot. They have fire rings and pit toilets. From the Round Barn parking area, the trail leads easterly along the shore to a half dozen secluded single-party campsites. To the west is a large group site that can accommodate up to 30 people. A nearby day-use area on the shore of Flagstaff Lake offers swimming and picnicking. A hand-carry boat or canoe may be launched from the beach.