High Peaks of Western Maine

Stretching over 230,000 acres in western Maine, the High Peaks are one of the most spectacular wild places in the eastern United States.

This area is home to old-growth forests as well as growing populations of bobcats and lynx. The Wilderness Society is working with partners to protect these lands.

Why Western Maine?

Encompassing one of the largest undeveloped areas in the eastern U.S., the High Peaks are home to important forests.  These forests are like a living laboratory for studying climate change.

What we’re doing

We’re working with local groups and land trusts to protect and conserve lands in the High Peaks area. In addition, we’re researching how wildlife and wild places can adapt to climate change.

Our partners

We work with the Maine Appalachian Trail Land Trust in the High Peaks area.



  • “We Can’t Wait: Why we need reform of the federal coal program now,” shows how the industry has been passing on millions in costs every day to the public. The status quo of the program has impacted public lands to the tune of billions of dollars and could multiply if coal companies aren’t held responsible for cleanup as they go bankrupt. Damages due to climate change from mining emissions will cost billions and drinking water for entire cities could be lost to mining or polluted beyond safe drinking levels.