Today the region’s major industries continue to be logging and farming. Outdoor recreation contributes heavily to the region’s economy. Looking at a map of Maine one can understand why. US Route 1 begins in Fort Kent. State Route 161 continues on to Allagash and terminates there along with the pavement. From this point on travel is on dirt roads maintained by the logging industry.
Just as in previous history Fort Kent is the last major town visitors to the North Maine Woods pass through. Limited services for visitors can be found in the settlements of St Francis and Allagash. The North Maine Woods is the largest tract of undeveloped land east of the Mississippi River, covering approximately 3.5 million acres. The North Maine Woods is an outdoor recreationist’s dream. Primitive camp sites dot the region. The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is contained within this area. The St. John River flows north 143 miles from Fifth St. John Pond to the Town of Allagash. Outfitters and vehicle livery services in Allagash and St. Francis cater to the adventurers that return annually to explore these watersheds. Both Rivers are rich in history and information can be found in numerous books and on the maps available.
Four season outdoor recreation opportunities abound in the region for those preferring to stay closer to amenities. The region also celebrates many festivals each year during the different seasons. One of the largest events put on is the Can-Am Sled Dog Race held in March each winter. The event is spectator friendly with the start of the race held on Main Street in Fort Kent. This race is nationally recognized and is a qualifying race for any musher wishing to eventually move on to the famous Iditarod Race held in Alaska.
