Caratunk, Maine

Appalachian Trail town on the Kennebec

Overview

Caratunk sits on the Kennebec River north of Bingham. The Appalachian Trail crosses here using the well-known canoe ferry, while nearby Bald Mountain Pond, Pleasant Pond, and the Dead River put paddlers and hikers close to the water. Outfitters in The Forks offer rafting on the Kennebec and Dead rivers minutes away.

Key Facts

Population 70

Region Kennebec Valley

County Somerset

Founded 1840

Nearest City Skowhegan (45 minutes)

Town Office Visit official website

What Caratunk Is Known For

Caratunk Local Highlights

Appalachian Trail crossing

Thru-hikers take the Kennebec ferry right in town each summer.

Whitewater access

Minutes from The Forks, home to guided Kennebec and Dead River rafting.

Remote ponds

Bald Mountain Pond and Pleasant Pond deliver backcountry paddling and trout fishing.

Things to Do

Raft the Kennebec

Book a guided trip from nearby outfitters in The Forks.

Hike Pleasant Pond Mountain

Reach panoramic views via the Appalachian Trail.

Paddle quiet waters

Explore Bald Mountain Pond or the Kennebec’s calmer stretches.

Living in Caratunk

Caratunk is extremely small and oriented to outdoor recreation, with services in Bingham or Skowhegan. Residents embrace remote living and seasonal tourism tied to the river.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Mild, 65-78 F

winter

Cold, 0-22 F with deep snow

spring

Cool and muddy, 35-55 F

fall

Crisp, 40-58 F with early foliage

How to Get There

Located on US-201 between Bingham and The Forks; I-95 access in Fairfield then north on US-201.

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

Satellite preview

Caratunk outline

Outdoor Recreation

Fishing in Maine 2026: Complete Freshwater & Saltwater Guide

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Snowmobiling in Maine: 14,000 Miles of Trails & Complete Guide

Winter (December - April)

Whitewater Rafting in Maine 2026: Kennebec, Penobscot & Dead Rivers

May - October

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Caratunk known for?

Caratunk is known for the famous Appalachian Trail ferry crossing on the Kennebec River and its proximity to The Forks whitewater rafting hub. Thru-hikers take a canoe ferry across the river each summer as part of their AT journey.

What is the Kennebec River ferry?

The Kennebec River ferry is a canoe shuttle service that carries Appalachian Trail hikers across the river in Caratunk. It operates during hiking season because the river is too dangerous to ford, especially during dam releases.

How close is Caratunk to whitewater rafting?

Caratunk is just minutes from The Forks, where multiple outfitters offer guided rafting trips on the Kennebec and Dead Rivers. The Forks is one of Maine's premier whitewater destinations.