Penobscot Narrows Bridge, Observatory & Fort Knox Maine Review By Jessica Marie Where the Penobscot river meets the Penobscot Bay and eventually the Atlantic Ocean, sits the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory as well as Fort Knox in Maine. We hear of Fort Knox, Tennessee but there is another just off the coast of Maine. It is packed with history and views. Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory The bridge crosses the Penobscot river and joins Verona Island to the mainland. It is a striking and unique bridge that flits into and out of vision through the surrounding forest as one approaches. It is a relatively narrow, two-lane bridge with towers that stretch high into the sky. The observatory is taller than the Statue of Liberty! The views from the observatory allow you to tower over the forests of Maine to see the Penobscot river, where it diverges into the eastern channel, and the Penobscot bay. You can also see the town of Bucksport nearby. There are multiple parking lots and parking is included with admission. Parking any vehicle is easily accommodated for your visit. There are bathrooms in the parking lot but none at the bridge or in the observatory. There is one elevator to the top of the observatory and the group limit in the elevator is 8. Covid-19 rules require all elevator occupants be from the same party. You won’t be in the elevator with those outside your party. The top can comfortably hold maybe 15-20 people. There are a few small stair wells with a wall to one side and windows on the other. These lead from the elevator to the observatory. There is another elevator for the disabled to reach the observation deck. Once at the observation deck you have a full 360 view of the area. We saw a large school of fish swim through the river being chased by a seal. There are stairs down to the bottom of the observation tower that can be used in an emergency. There are employees present at the base and the top to guide visitors. Parties are given about 15 minutes before they are encouraged to return so the next group can come up. Fort Knox Fort Knox began construction in 1844. It is very close to the bridge and one admission fee grants each person access to both the Penobscot Narrows Bridge, Observatory and Fort Knox. Most visitors park at the bridge, then drive over to the Fort to park in that lot. There are bathrooms, a drink vending machine, and gift shop upon starting the trail to the Fort. Once inside the fort there are no amenities. There is a trail down to the Penobscot River and the cannons along the river. The trail is steep in places, but there is plenty of space to pause and rest if needed. There is a covered stairwell from the area by the river up towards the fort. The stairs and rooms are very cool and are a great place to head if you get too hot. The stairs are very steep, so watch your step. On the walk up to the Fort you are impressed by the size of the Fort and how well fortified it was. Inside there are many signs explaining the area as well as free guides that can answer questions, give tours, and more. Once inside the fort, you have free run of the place. There are back halls that are very dark and completely unlit save for sun streaming in through the rifle slits. Be sure to bring a flashlight or use the one on your phone. These back areas are very cool both in temperature and for adventuring. But watch your step as much of the floor is uneven and steps can crop up anywhere. Do not navigate these halls without use of a flashlight. You can ascend the stone, spiral staircase to the upper level. You can see the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory from the upper level. Under the main level are small cavern like areas that can be explored. However, you will need to duck or crawl to fully explore them. If you play the flute or other such instrument, you can find some fantastic, highly acoustic areas where music can be heard through much of the Fort. Conclusion This is an incredibly fun place for people of all ages. Families with small children had a great time exploring the Fort, just be sure to watch their step as the floor is uneven, unlit, and can be slippery in places. I spent most of my time finding as many tunnels and back halls as I could. I spoke to a guide at the end of the day and was told I had found every hidden area. I felt very accomplished! Strollers and wheelchairs could see the main level, but little else. These could, however, see the Bridge and Observatory. If you love history, views, and exploring old forts these two attractions are perfect for you. The plan your trip to either attraction click here. This is not an affiliate link. https://www.maine.gov/mdot/pnbo/ You can pay for and visit only the observatory or the fort, or pay one fee to see both. The bridge itself is free to drive across. Happy exploring!
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AuthorJessica Marie Cunningham - Intentional lifestyle blogger, aspiring author, and podcast host. All things Slow Living, Books, Writing, Art, creativity, Christianity, and personal stories. Archives
March 2022
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