Aroostook Wildlife Refuge... I been looking at the site for a while. Being military brat myself, and knowing this is a former military base converted into Wildlife refuge is fascinating. Abandoned bunkers stand here in complete silence, covered under the grassy hills, old mine shops and whole network of buildings spread out in a huge field. This is absolutely best abandoned place to snoop around and photoshoot. Moose, beavers, deer and other wildlife call this place home. It's also great place for stargazing as it gets dark here quickly. There are also few photo blinds - tiny cabins with narrow windows to sit and wait for perfect picture. Pretty cool. Autoroute seems to be still under construction, only small portion is open, but some of old roads that been partially demolished make excellent off-roading trail (do not try this, kids). Accidentally, we make a wrong turn and end up on no road at all, with no possibility to turn around. Running thru churned asphalt rocks, grass and frozen puddles is mad fun! 4x4 stayed on whole time, obviously. There are many hiking trails here, Beaver pond is nice one. This place is twisted. Unexpected. I am still trying to wrap my mind around it - the abandoned military bunkers, trails and roads - it resonates with me somehow. read more

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After weighing some options for hiking in the area, I opted to visit the Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge, and I'm so glad I did. Not only did I have the place pretty much to myself, but it was so well cared for. The trails are wide and well groomed, and there are informational kiosks throughout. I didn't see any critters (just some tracks and poop) but had I encountered a bear, the information I read prior to heading on the trail would have helped me out. Land trusts, wildlife refuges, and other public lands are so important to the surrounding communities and provide valuable education to the public. I highly encourage anyone to come, but if you come on a really hot day like I did, bring plenty of water! read more

Nice trails, few people, peaceful. Definitely "easy" as far as a rating for difficulty.