Caratunk, Maine
Appalachian Trail town on the Kennebec
Overview
Caratunk sits on the Kennebec River north of Bingham. The Appalachian Trail crosses here using the well-known canoe ferry, while nearby Bald Mountain Pond, Pleasant Pond, and the Dead River put paddlers and hikers close to the water. Outfitters in The Forks offer rafting on the Kennebec and Dead rivers minutes away.
Key Facts
Population 70
Region Kennebec & Moose River Valleys
County Somerset
Founded 1840
Nearest City Skowhegan (45 minutes)
Town Office
Visit official website
What Caratunk Is Known For
Caratunk Local Highlights
Appalachian Trail crossing
Thru-hikers take the Kennebec ferry right in town each summer.
Whitewater access
Minutes from The Forks, home to guided Kennebec and Dead River rafting.
Remote ponds
Bald Mountain Pond and Pleasant Pond deliver backcountry paddling and trout fishing.
Things to Do
1
Raft the Kennebec
Book a guided trip from nearby outfitters in The Forks.
2
Hike Pleasant Pond Mountain
Reach panoramic views via the Appalachian Trail.
3
Paddle quiet waters
Explore Bald Mountain Pond or the Kennebec’s calmer stretches.
Living in Caratunk
Caratunk is extremely small and oriented to outdoor recreation, with services in Bingham or Skowhegan. Residents embrace remote living and seasonal tourism tied to the river.
Weather & Seasons
summer
Mild, 65-78 F
winter
Cold, 0-22 F with deep snow
spring
Cool and muddy, 35-55 F
fall
Crisp, 40-58 F with early foliage
How to Get There
Located on US-201 between Bingham and The Forks; I-95 access in Fairfield then north on US-201.
Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.
Satellite preview
Caratunk outline
Key Facts
Population
70
Region
Kennebec & Moose River Valleys
County
Somerset
Founded
1840
Nearest City
Skowhegan (45 minutes)
Town Office
Visit official website