In a state with so much history, we really never have a problem finding a subject when we want to take a step into the past. There are haunted hotels, museums full of artifacts, and tons of stories that are passed down from generation to generation. But one of the things we like the most is how much history is found within nature.

To see a great example of this, we’re taking an internet trip to Aroostook County today! That’s where you’ll see one of the best examples of Old Growth Forests.

These forests, which can be found all over the country, are comprised of wooded areas that have been mainly untouched for hundreds and hundreds of year. Part of what keeps them so pristine is the fact that they’re difficult to get to. As a result, they’re able to grow without being disturbed

These are truly beautiful natural areas and we’re lucky to have this fantastic example here in Maine.

To see them in person you’ll want to head to Eagle Lake where you’ll find the Eagle Lake Old-Growth Forest Area near the eastern shore. This is opposite the southeast end of Pillsbury Island.

The forest is approximately 100 acres and it’s the largest example of an old-growth forest in the entire state of Maine.

There’s a selection of pine trees that are over three feet in diameter! And they’ve grown sky-high at 130 feet in the air.

Because the forest is so untouched, it’s easy to imagine that folks hundreds of years ago experienced almost the exact same landscape. In fact, Thoreau canoed across Eagle Lake to get to Pillsbury Island in 1857. These trees have been growing since the 1700s so it’s likely that he saw the exact same ones.

About six miles from the lake is the “Ziegler Site,” a smaller area of old-growth white pine that covers about eight acres.

And look beneath the pine trees and you’ll find white birch, northern white cedar, and red spruce trees. You’ll also see sugar maples that are estimated to be about 180 years old!

Even if you don’t live in close proximity to the area, we recommend making the trip north to see it. Being in the area might make you feel as though you’ve taken a voyage out of Maine, but it’s just another example of how varied and diverse our state really is.

To see the Eagle Lake Old-Growth Forest Area the best method is to set your GPS to the Overlook Motel in the town of Eagle Lake. From there you can get directions and find your way. For more information about old-growth forest visit this section of the Maine.gov website where you'll find tons of interesting information about the state's growth.

The history in Vacationland is fascinating. To learn more about it, check out the 11 historical monuments in Maine that you absolutely must visit.