Mars Hill, Maine

The mountain of The County.

Overview

Mars Hill is a distinctive Aroostook County community nestled at the foot of Mars Hill Mountain, the highest peak in northeast Maine at 1,748 feet elevation. Named in 1790 by a British Army chaplain who likened it to Mars Hill in Athens where the Apostle Paul spoke, the town was also named for early settler Hezekiah Mars who camped at the mountain's base for three years. Incorporated on February 21, 1867, the town attracted settlers from New Brunswick in 1844 to participate in potato farming. Today, Mars Hill blends agricultural heritage with outdoor recreation at Big Rock Ski Area, established in the 1960s, while offering panoramic views stretching into Canada.

Key Facts

Population 1,360

Region Aroostook

County Aroostook

Founded 1867

Nearest City Presque Isle (20 mins)

Town Office Visit official website

What Mars Hill Is Known For

Mars Hill Local Highlights

Mars Hill Mountain

At 1,748 feet, the highest peak in northeast Maine, offering hiking trails, panoramic views into Canada, and the site of Big Rock Ski Area.

Big Rock Ski Area

Community ski area founded in the 1960s on Mars Hill Mountain, now operated by Maine Winter Sports Center with skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country trails.

International Appalachian Trail

The northern terminus of the International Appalachian Trail extends through Mars Hill, connecting to trails in New Brunswick and beyond.

Potato Farming Heritage

Agricultural community with deep roots in Aroostook County's famous potato farming industry dating to the 1840s.

Things to Do

Ski Big Rock Mountain

Enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing at this community ski area with family-friendly slopes and stunning mountain views.

Hike Mars Hill Mountain

Summit the highest peak in northeast Maine via hiking trails offering panoramic views of The County and into New Brunswick, Canada.

Explore International Appalachian Trail

Trek portions of the IAT as it passes through Mars Hill, connecting Maine to New Brunswick's trail system.

Golf Mars Hill Country Club

Play this scenic 9-hole golf course with beautiful mountain views and traditional Maine golf hospitality.

Living in Mars Hill

Mars Hill offers quiet, affordable living in northern Aroostook County with strong agricultural roots and close-knit community values. The town of 1,360 residents borders Canada and provides access to outdoor recreation on Mars Hill Mountain. Harsh winters attract hardy residents who appreciate The County's wide-open spaces, farming heritage, and proximity to Presque Isle for services and employment.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Mild, 65-78°F

winter

Very cold and snowy, -5-22°F

spring

Cool, 30-52°F

fall

Crisp, 35-58°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose White-tailed Deer Snowshoe Hares Red Foxes

How to Get There

Mars Hill is located in central Aroostook County along US Route 1, approximately 20 minutes north of Presque Isle and directly on the Canadian border with New Brunswick. From Presque Isle, take Route 1 north through Blaine to Mars Hill. The town sits at the base of Mars Hill Mountain, the highest peak in northeast Maine.

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

Satellite preview

Mars Hill outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see Canada from Mars Hill Mountain?

Yes! Mars Hill Mountain at 1,748 feet elevation offers spectacular panoramic views stretching into New Brunswick, Canada. The town itself borders Canada, and clear days provide stunning cross-border vistas.

Is Big Rock Ski Area still operating?

Yes, Big Rock Ski Area, established in the 1960s, continues to operate under Maine Winter Sports Center management. It offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country skiing with family-friendly terrain.

What is the International Appalachian Trail?

The IAT extends the Appalachian Trail concept beyond Mount Katahdin, connecting Maine to Atlantic Canada and Europe. It passes through Mars Hill, linking trails in Maine and New Brunswick.