North Franklin

UMaine Alert

Posted: April 19, 2024 - 1:32 PM

At approximately 9:24 a.m. on Thursday, April 19, a University of Maine graduate student was struck by a university vehicle on Long Road at the University of Maine campus in Orono. The student reports that they are at a local hospital with minor injuries.

Emergency services, including the Orono Fire Department, University Volunteer Ambulance Corps, University of Maine Police Department, Orono Police Department and Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office responded to the scene.

The university vehicle involved in the incident was a Chevrolet Express van. It was being operated by a university employee.

Counseling services and support are available for students, faculty or staff who may have been affected. The Counseling Center can be reached at 207-581-1392 and the Dean of Students Office can be reached at 207-581-1406.

The scene has been cleared and Long Road is now accessible. An investigation is being conducted by the University of Maine Police Department with assistance from the Penobscot County Sheriff’s Office Crash Reconstruction Unit. Any witnesses to the incident are encouraged to contact Lt. Noel Santiago at noel.santiago@maine.edu.

Welcome to North Franklin!

Moose

The large unorganized territory of North Franklin extends nearly all the way from the Rangeley Lakes area to the Canadian border and currently has an estimated population of just 60 people. The Maine High Peaks Scenic Byway along Route 27 traverses the territory from Eustis up to the border crossing at Coburn Gore. Off both sides of the main road is a vast forest filled with beautiful, pristine lakes, rivers, and mountains. It is a true outdoor enthusiast’s paradise!

Activities

Chain of Ponds Primitive Campground Rte 27, North Franklin, ME 04936
- This bare-bones campsite provides a conveniently-located spot to set up camp on a first-come-first-serve basis. A well-prepared camper couldn’t ask for a better spot than this, surrounded by the gorgeous Chain of Ponds!
Chain of Ponds Viewpoint Rte 27, North Franklin, ME 04936
- Don’t miss this rest stop’s panoramic views of the Chain of Ponds and informative displays about the area’s history!
Grant’s Kennebago Camps 133 Grant’s Camps Ln, North Franklin, ME 04970 | (207) 864-3608
- Grant’s Kennebago Camps provides a traditional sporting camp experience! They offer three home-cooked meals daily, comfortable accommodations, and specialty fly fishing, hunting, golfing, and “moosing” packages.
Natanis Point Campground 19 Natanis Point Rd, Chain of Ponds, ME 04936 | (207) 297-2694
- This wilderness campground offers 61 secluded sites at affordable rates, including many right on the water and one only accessible by boat! They welcome ATVs and families, and their camp store is an added convenience for guests.
Sarampus Falls Rte 27, North Franklin, ME 04936
- This lovely roadside waterfall offers a nice, kid-friendly swimming hole, picnic and grilling area, and public restrooms.
Snow Mountain Trail Unnamed Road, North Franklin, ME 04936
- This lightly trafficked 8.4-mile trail, accessible via dirt logging roads, offers a secluded hike to the summit of beautiful Snow Mountain. Cool off with a stop at Snow Mountain Pond along the way!

Dining

A variety of great dining options are available in nearby Coplin, Rangeley, and Stratton-Eustis.

Lodging

Grant’s Kennebago Camps 133 Grant’s Camps Ln, North Franklin, ME 04970 | (207) 864-3608
- Grant’s Kennebago Camps provides a traditional sporting camp experience! They offer various getaway packages, which include three meals daily, comfortable accommodations, and specialty guidance in fly fishing, hunting, golfing, and “moosing.”
Natanis Point Campground 19 Natanis Point Rd, Chain of Ponds, ME 04936 | (207) 297-2694
- This wilderness campground offers 61 secluded camping sites at affordable rates, including many right on the water and one only accessible by boat or canoe! They welcome ATVs and families, and their camp store is an added convenience for guests.

Shops & Services

Pepin’s General Store 6066 The Arnold Trl, Coburn Gore, ME 04936 | (207) 297-2651
- This general store is a convenient place to stock up right before or after crossing the Canadian border!
Additional shops and services are available nearby Coplin, Rangeley, and Stratton-Eustis.

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