Wassataquoik Stream Trail

Wassataquoik Stream Trail is a short backcountry hiking connector inside Baxter State Park, designed to link Roaring Brook Campground and Russell Pond Campground. The mapped distance is about 3.9 miles one way, and the route follows the South Branch of the Wassataquoik Stream downstream.

The trail leaves Russell Pond Trail about 3.3 miles north of Roaring Brook Campground, then works its way toward the stream’s lower reaches. At the main stream crossing near the route’s junction to the Russell Pond Trail side, you’ll need to ford Wassataquoik Stream to finish the connection.

Expect the route to be primarily foot traffic only (not for bicycles or horses). The trail surface is mapped as path, and it’s treated as a designated on-foot route through the backcountry corridor.

Two lean-tos are located on the south shore of the stream near the ford area. This gives you a practical option for overnighting close to the crossing if you’re doing the out-and-back or building a loop using the two campgrounds.

Water and timing matter: the ford makes this trail sensitive to high water. It’s discouraged during spring high waters and also after very heavy summer rain when stream levels can rise quickly.

On the north side of the crossing, the trail follows the old Wassataquoik Tote Road north and west before turning back to rejoin Russell Pond Trail about 0.4 miles from Russell Pond Campground, completing the shuttle-style connection.

More information: Conditions, Map, Russell Pond & Wassataquoik Stream Trails - Maine Trail Finder