Mainepedia
Brownville, Maine

Brownville, Maine

Gateway to Katahdin Iron Works

Overview

Brownville (and Brownville Junction) is a traditional Maine town deeply rooted in the railroad and slate industries. Today, it is best known as the primary access point for the Katahdin Iron Works Road, which leads to the "Grand Canyon of Maine" (Gulf Hagas) and a historic 19th-century blast furnace.

Key Facts

Population 1,200
Region Maine Highlands
County Piscataquis
Founded 1824
Nearest City Milo (10 minutes)

What Brownville Is Known For

Brownville Local Highlights

Katahdin Iron Works (KIW)
A state historic site preserving the remains of a massive 19th-century iron smelting operation.
Gulf Hagas
Located just north of town (via KIW road), this 3-mile slate gorge features numerous waterfalls and is a National Natural Landmark.
Railroad Heritage
Brownville Junction was a major hub for the Canadian Pacific Railway.

Things to Do

1
Visit the Blast Furnace
See the restored stone furnace at Katahdin Iron Works.
2
Hike Gulf Hagas
A strenuous but rewarding hike along the rim of the gorge.
3
Fish the Pleasant River
Excellent trout fishing in the waters flowing through town.

Living in Brownville

Brownville is a quiet, rural community with affordable housing and easy access to wilderness recreation.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 70-80°F

winter

Cold and snowy, 5-25°F

spring

Late, 40-55°F

fall

Brilliant foliage, 45-60°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose Deer Trout Bears

How to Get There

Located on Route 11 north of Milo.

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

Satellite preview

Brownville outline

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Brownville known for?

Brownville is known as the gateway to Gulf Hagas, called the 'Grand Canyon of Maine'—a 3-mile slate gorge with numerous waterfalls. The town also provides access to the Katahdin Iron Works state historic site with its restored 19th-century blast furnace.

What is Gulf Hagas?

Gulf Hagas is a National Natural Landmark located north of Brownville via the Katahdin Iron Works Road. The 3-mile slate gorge features multiple waterfalls and offers strenuous but rewarding hiking along the rim trail.

What is Katahdin Iron Works?

Katahdin Iron Works is a state historic site preserving the remains of a massive 19th-century iron smelting operation. The restored stone blast furnace and surrounding area tell the story of Maine's industrial past and serve as the trailhead for Gulf Hagas.

Nearby Towns

Explore More

Maine Highlands Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature