Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Penobscot County, Maine

© Cavan Images/Alam

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, USA

Welcome to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine, United States, where dense woodlands and pristine waterways stretch out as far as the eye can see. Covering nearly 350 square kilometres, this monument was established in 2016. The region played a significant role in Maine's logging industry for more than 100 years, but towards the end of the 19th century, this activity began to decline. Efforts to preserve the landscape we see here today were spearheaded by philanthropist Roxanne Quimby. She and her foundation started purchasing land near Baxter State Park in 2001 and donated it to the federal government in 2016, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

Katahdin Woods and Waters' diverse ecosystem provides a home for a variety of fauna, including moose, black bear and Canada lynx, in addition to numerous bird species like bald eagle and wood duck. It offers many outdoor activities for visitors, such as hiking, canoeing and camping. The monument has some of the darkest skies in the United States due to the lack of electrical lighting in its vast expanse, making it a great place for stargazing.