Mainepedia
Crystal, Maine

Crystal, Maine

Rural Aroostook town along the Mattawamkeag

Overview

Crystal sits on Route 159 between Island Falls and Patten. Open fields mix with woodlots, and the Mattawamkeag River runs close by. Residents rely on nearby towns for services while enjoying access to Katahdin-region recreation and Baxter State Park's northern trailheads.

Key Facts

Population 240
Region Aroostook
County Aroostook
Founded 1839
Nearest City Patten (10 minutes)

What Crystal Is Known For

Crystal Local Highlights

Trail access
ITS routes link Crystal to Patten, Sherman, and the County network.
River corridor
The Mattawamkeag offers paddling and fishing close to town.
Gateway to Katahdin Woods
Quick reach to Baxter State Park's northern entries via Route 159.

Things to Do

1
Snowmobile loops
Ride County trails toward Island Falls or Patten.
2
Paddle the Mattawamkeag
Explore flatwater stretches and look for eagles.
3
Day trip to Baxter
Head west to the northern Baxter trailheads at Trout Brook; the /guides/best-hikes-guide covers nearby summit options.
4
Fall foliage drives
Follow Route 11 or the Shin Pond loop during peak color for views of Katahdin's flanks.

Living in Crystal

Crystal offers affordable rural living; services are in Patten, Island Falls, or Sherman. Agriculture and forestry shape local land use, and winter plowing focuses on Route 159 and main camp roads.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Mild, 65-78 F

winter

Very cold, -15 to 15 F with heavy snow

spring

Cool, 35-50 F

fall

Crisp, 40-58 F with wide-open foliage views

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose sign along logging roads toward Mount Chase Bald eagles over the Mattawamkeag Deer and grouse in field edges

How to Get There

On Route 159 west of Island Falls; I-95 access via Exit 276 in Island Falls.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Crystal outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the nearest supplies?

[Patten](/towns/patten) has groceries, gas, and lodging 10 minutes west; Island Falls adds an I-95 interchange and more services.

How close is Baxter State Park?

About 30-40 minutes to Trout Brook Farm on the park's north side via Route 159; check conditions and reservations before heading in.

Nearby Towns

Explore More

Aroostook Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature