If you are scared of heights you may want to take in the view from below the bridge.

Amanda McDonald, Townsquare Media
Amanda McDonald, Townsquare Media
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Overlooking Lake Onawa in the Borestone Mountain Sanctuary area you will find one of Maine's best views! The Onanwa Trestle is the tallest and longest train trestle in Maine and some argue New England as well. It is about 1230 feet long and rests on tall concrete pillars 130 feet above Ship Pond Stream.

Amanda McDonald, Townsquare Media
Amanda McDonald, Townsquare Media
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The original wooden trestle was built here in 1887 and was later replaced by a steel trestle in 1869. The trestle has since been modified and updated to accommodate the current trains using the trestle Central Maine and Qubec Railway. Yes, the railway is still used and the train schedule is unpredictable meaning that while you are taking in the views you need to be aware of approaching trains.

Amanda McDonald, Townsquare Media
Amanda McDonald, Townsquare Media
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There are multiple ways to get to the trestle. You can go via ATV, hiking, or by small boat. Easiest access is off the Onawa Rd. in Elliottsville Township off the Elliottsville Rd. The public boat launch is about 2.6 miles in on Onawa Rd. and parking for hiking is about 3.2 miles in. Then just look for the train tracks and follow those East less than a mile to the Trestle. The hiking trail continues under the bridge as do the ATV trails.

Check local ATV trail maps for details on how to access those and where to park. More details on the Onawa Trestle can be found here. Take caution when walking on the trestle, it is marked with signs stating 'Pass at yuor own Risk'. See the video below of a woman facing her fear of heights for the breathtaking view.

 

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