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Fort Kent, Maine

Fort Kent, Maine

America's First Mile

Fort Kent from the air, the St. John River running past the town and the bridge crossing to Clair, New Brunswick. The far bank is Canada. Photo by Quintin Soloviev via source, CC BY 4.0. Resized for this page.

Overview

Fort Kent is famous for being the northern terminus of US Route 1 (which ends in Key West, FL). It is a stronghold of Acadian culture, with French often heard on the streets. It is also a world-class destination for Nordic skiing and biathlon.

Fort Kent is famous for being the northern terminus of US Route 1 (which ends in Key West, FL). It is a stronghold of Acadian culture, with French often heard on the streets. It is also a world-class destination for Nordic skiing and biathlon.

Fort Kent Blockhouse

Fort Kent Blockhouse This historic fortification stands as a reminder of the “Bloodless” Aroostook War of 1838-1839. It is one of the few surviving blockhouses from that era and offers a unique glimpse into the region’s border history.

Key Facts

Population 4,000
Region Aroostook
County Aroostook
Founded 1829
Nearest City Bangor (3.5 hours)

What Fort Kent Is Known For

Fort Kent Local Highlights

US Route 1 Northern Terminus
The beginning (or end) of U.S. Route 1, which stretches all the way to Key West, Florida.
Can-Am Crown Sled Dog Race
Host of the premier sled dog race in the eastern United States.
Acadian Culture
A stronghold of Acadian heritage and French language in the St. John Valley.
Fort Kent Blockhouse
A historic fortification from the Aroostook War, preserving the border history.

Things to Do

1
Visit the Fort Kent Blockhouse
Explore this historic wooden fort and learn about the 'Bloodless' Aroostook War.
2
Take a photo at the 'America's First Mile' monument
Mark your visit to the northern start of Route 1.
3
Attend the Can-Am Crown Sled Dog Race
Cheer on mushers as they start their 250-mile journey through the Maine woods.
4
Ski at the Fort Kent Outdoor Center
Enjoy world-class Nordic skiing and biathlon facilities.
5
Attend the Ploye Festival
Celebrate the traditional Acadian buckwheat pancake at this summer festival.

Living in Fort Kent

Fort Kent is remote, friendly, and proud of its heritage. It is home to the University of Maine at Fort Kent. Winters are long and serious, but embraced by the community.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Mild and pleasant, 65-75°F

winter

Extreme cold, -10 to 20°F

spring

Late thaw, 40-55°F

fall

Early peak foliage, 45-55°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose Muskellunge (Muskie) Canada Lynx Snowshoe Hare

How to Get There

Fort Kent is at the end of Route 11 or Route 1. It is about 3.5 to 4 hours north of Bangor. It is on the border with Clair, New Brunswick.

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

Satellite preview

Fort Kent outline

Frequently Asked Questions

Do people speak French here?

Yes, many locals speak 'Valley French,' a unique dialect influenced by their Acadian heritage.

How far is Key West?

From the monument in Fort Kent, it is approximately 2,369 miles to Key West, Florida.

Nearby Towns

Explore More

Aroostook Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature