Ghost Towns in Maine
8 documented ghost towns
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History
Explore the ghost towns of Maine.
All Ghost Towns
Flagstaff
Flagstaff was a logging town flooded in 1950 to create Flagstaff Lake for hydroelectric power. Residents were relocated and buildings demolished or mo...
Flagstaff
Flagstaff was named for the flag Benedict Arnold raised here in 1775 during his ill-fated march to Quebec. In 1950, the town was flooded to create Fla...
Great Wass Island
Great Wass Island was home to a small lobstering community. Most residents are gone, leaving cellar holes among the spruce forests and bogs. The islan...
Hastings
Hastings was a major logging center from 1890 to 1910—a company town deep in the Wild River valley. Forest fires and timber depletion finished it by 1...
Katahdin Iron Works
Katahdin Iron Works was a remote iron smelting facility deep in the Maine woods. The massive stone blast furnace still towers over the site, along wit...
Malaga Island
Malaga Island was home to a mixed-race fishing community for 50 years. In 1912, the state of Maine forcibly evicted all 47 residents, citing eugenics....
Millinocket Mill Town
Millinocket was called 'The Magic City' for how quickly it grew around the Great Northern Paper Company. When the mill closed in 2008, the population ...
Perkins Township
Perkins Township, located on Swan Island, was an agricultural community famously known as a favored camping spot of Aaron Burr and Benedict Arnold. Is...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ghost towns are in Maine?
We have documented 8 ghost towns in Maine. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.
Are ghost towns in Maine safe to visit?
Most ghost towns are safe to explore, but exercise caution. Watch for unstable structures, mine shafts, and wildlife. Some are on private property - always check access rules before visiting.
What should I bring when visiting ghost towns?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy shoes, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Many ghost towns are in remote areas without cell service, so download offline maps.
Can I take artifacts from ghost towns?
No. Removing artifacts, bottles, or debris is illegal and destroys historical sites. Take only photos and leave only footprints.
What's the best time to visit ghost towns in Maine?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.