The 100-Mile Wilderness is the most remote section of the entire Appalachian Trail—a hundred miles between Monson and Abol Bridge with no road crossings, no towns, and no easy escape. For northbound thru-hikers, it's the final push before Katahdin. For everyone else, it's Maine's premier wilderness backpacking experience.
Despite the name, the actual distance is closer to 100 miles (the exact figure varies by trail rerouting). What doesn't vary is the wildness: pristine lakes, rugged mountains, dense forest, and the knowledge that you're truly out there on your own.
Overview
Basic Stats
- Distance: ~100 miles
- Typical Time: 7-10 days
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Highest Point: Whitecap Mountain (3,654 ft)
The trail passes through a landscape of glacially carved ponds, dense spruce forest, and rolling mountains. It's not as rugged as the Mahoosuc Range to the south, but the isolation and duration create their own challenges.
Highlights
- Gulf Hagas ("Maine's Grand Canyon")
- Chairback Mountain Range
- Whitecap Mountain summit views
- Countless pristine ponds and lakes
- Wildlife: moose, loons, eagles
Planning and Preparation
When to Go
- June: High water, blackflies; challenging but solitary
- July-August: Best weather; expect company from thru-hikers
- September: Fewer bugs, changing colors; nights get cold
Food Resupply
There is no resupply within the wilderness. You must carry all food from Monson. At typical backpacking weights (1.5-2 lbs/day), that's 10-20 pounds of food—a significant load.
Some hikers arrange food drops at logging roads (research current access) or go ultralight on calories. Plan carefully.
Water
Water is abundant—dozens of ponds and streams. Treat all water. This is beaver country; Giardia is a real concern.
Gear Requirements
- Full backpacking kit (tent, sleeping system, stove)
- Bear canister or hanging system (required)
- Water treatment
- Emergency communication (satellite messenger recommended)
- Extra food margin (weather delays happen)
Trail Sections
Monson to Gulf Hagas (20 miles)
The trail warms you up with moderate terrain before reaching Gulf Hagas—a dramatic slate gorge with waterfalls. It's worth a side-trip detour.
Gulf Hagas to Whitecap (25 miles)
The Chairback Mountain Range provides the trip's most challenging section. Multiple peaks over 2,000 feet with steep ups and downs.
Whitecap to Rainbow Lake (30 miles)
More moderate terrain through beautiful lake country. Whitecap Mountain offers the best views of the journey.
Rainbow Lake to Abol Bridge (25 miles)
The home stretch, with Katahdin growing larger on the horizon. Rainbow Lake and Nahmakanta Lake are highlights.
Logistics
Trailheads
- South (Monson): Most thru-hikers and section hikers start here. Lodging and shuttles available in town.
- North (Abol Bridge): Access to Baxter State Park and Katahdin. Campground and minimal services at the bridge.
Direction
Most hikers go NOBO (northbound), ending at Katahdin—the logical conclusion. But SOBO works too, starting with Katahdin and saving Monson's pizza for the end.
Permits and Fees
No permits needed for the 100-Mile Wilderness itself. Baxter State Park (for Katahdin) has separate fees and camping reservations.
Shuttles
Various services run shuttles to/from trailheads. Arrange in advance, especially for Abol Bridge pickup.
Challenges and Rewards
The Hard Parts
- Weight: 8-10 days of food is heavy
- Isolation: No bailout for 100 miles (logging roads provide some emergency access)
- Bugs: June brings legendary blackflies and mosquitoes
- Weather: Storms can strand you for days
The Best Parts
- Solitude: Even on the busy AT, this section is quiet
- Wildlife: Moose, beavers, loons, eagles
- Landscape: Classic Maine wilderness
- Accomplishment: Completing the 100-Mile is an achievement
Quick Reference
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | ~100 miles |
| Duration | 7-10 days |
| Difficulty | Strenuous |
| Resupply | None (carry all) |
| Best Season | July-September |
The 100-Mile Wilderness is a test—of your planning, your fitness, and your tolerance for isolation. But it's also a gift: a hundred miles of wild Maine, ending with Katahdin rising in the distance. For backpackers seeking a genuine wilderness experience on the East Coast, nothing else comes close.
