Presque Isle, Maine

The Star City

Overview

Presque Isle is the largest city in 'The County' (Aroostook). It sits in the heart of Maine's potato belt and offers a gateway to the vast North Woods. It is a four-season outdoor destination, particularly famous for its hundreds of miles of premier snowmobile trails and the world-class Nordic Heritage Center.

Key Facts

Population 8,797

Region Aroostook

County Aroostook

Founded 1859

Nearest City Bangor (2.5 hours)

Town Office Visit official website

What Presque Isle Is Known For

Presque Isle Local Highlights

Maine Solar System Model

The hub of a 40-mile scale model of the solar system (Jupiter is here).

Double Eagle II

The launch site of the first hot air balloon to successfully cross the Atlantic Ocean.

Nordic Heritage Center

A world-class venue for biathlon and cross-country skiing.

Aroostook State Park

Maine's first state park, offering hiking and camping.

Things to Do

Hike Quaggy Jo Mountain

Explore the trails in Aroostook State Park.

Visit the Double Eagle II site

See the monument commemorating the historic balloon flight.

Ski at the Nordic Heritage Center

Enjoy top-tier trails for skiing and mountain biking.

See Jupiter

Find the giant planet model on Route 1.

Living in Presque Isle

Presque Isle offers a rural, small-town lifestyle with the amenities of a regional service center. It has a university, airport, and hospital. The pace is slow, the people are friendly, and the winters are long and real.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Mild and pleasant, 65-75°F

winter

Severe cold and deep snow, 0-20°F

spring

Late thaw, 40-55°F

fall

Early peak foliage, 45-60°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose Black Bear Canada Lynx Bald Eagles

How to Get There

Presque Isle is far north. It is served by Presque Isle International Airport (PQI) with flights to Newark. Driving takes about 2.5 hours north from Bangor on I-95 and Route 11.

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

Satellite preview

Presque Isle outline

Trip Ideas Featuring Presque Isle

4 Days

Aroostook County Adventure: Exploring Maine's Crown

A 4-day journey through Maine's northernmost county, experiencing vast farmlands, Acadian culture, and true wilderness.

5 Stops View Plan

Frequently Asked Questions

How cold does it get?

Very cold. Sub-zero temperatures are common in January and February. It is a true winter climate.

What is the Solar System Model?

It is a scale model of the solar system stretching 40 miles along Route 1. Presque Isle hosts Jupiter.

When is the potato harvest?

The potato harvest typically takes place in late September and early October. Schools in the area historically took a 'harvest break' to help.