The Katahdin Region has a rich history and exciting future. Dominated by Katahdin itself – the “Greatest Mountain,” as named by the Penobscot people – this vast area of central Maine is redefining the forest economy for the 21st century.   

The Katahdin Region is the ancestral home of the Wabanaki people and has been an inspiration to artists and adventurers for centuries. Until recently, it was also one of the most significant paper production centers in the world. Mill closures in the 2000s led to years of economic and population decline – but recent efforts are putting the region’s towns on a new trajectory. 

Revival of the Katahdin Region has come from many directions, including significant private investment in recreation amenities and new ownership of the former mill sites.  

In Millinocket and East Millinocket, leadership from the nonprofit Our Katahdin and the Town of East Millinocket are redeveloping the mill sites and recruiting new forest industries and compatible enterprises.

The new Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument and an expanded trail networks such as Katahdin Area Trails and Penobscot River Trails are enticing more people to explore the woods and wilds of the region. 

The Center fully believes that the Katahdin Region can become thriving and prosperous once again. That’s why we have been directly investing in the region’s largest town, Millinocket, since 2017, and continue working with partners to advance a variety of revitalization projects in the region.  

Hear from five local residents who are leading this change in a new video series.