Just wanted to respond to a few of Raymond's points. I agree with some: admittedly, North Maine Woods land is working forest, while BSP is "wilder within". But I respectfully disagree with several of Raymonds other points:
1. Hunting is still a big deal, trapping somewhat less so but it is still prevalent. Most folks from away driving to Sugarloaf pass right by a fur trader's business. If you don't believe in the prevalence of hunting, try coming up in season and bushwhacking without orange!
2. State park is not the same as national park! How many people here have heard of Arches National Park or Canyonlands National Park in UT? OK, how many have heard of Goblin Valley State Park, or Dead Horse Point State Park? In my personal experience, national parks draw many times more people, particularly on the international scale.
3. Thanks to the current private landowners, the North Maine Woods coalition has preserved public access. Traveling on the lumber roads costs less than national park entrance fees. See the North Maine Woods Sportsman's Map or DeLorme's Maine Atlas & Gazetteer (a must-have for many Mainers) if you want to know where you're going, or simply ask the friendly folk at the checkpoints. They really are helpful. Same thing goes for camping -- designated campsites are displayed on both of the above-referenced maps, and there is even a
web page on the NMW site setting forth further camping information.
I don't mean to criticize, and I'm going to try not to respond any further to this thread -- stating my opinions (and that's all they are) once is fine, but harping on them would be obnoxious.
And Raymond, the image of the mini-golf course outside Millinocket is priceless!
In all friendliness,
el-b