A Mountain of Mystery

#BurntJacket’s Future and the #Billionaire Rumor

June 12, 2025
By Emily Patrick

"In our October 31, 2024 Edition of the Moosehead Lakeshore Journal, we broke the story of the #BurntJacketMountain sale and the closure of its popular hiking trails, publishing a Letter to the Editor written by local author and trail enthusiast, Chris Keene.

Chris wrote, “A large landowner on Burnt Jacket Mountain…is taking steps to close all three trails on the mountain. That means the Blue Trail, the Green Trail, and the Red Trail will be closed down permanently.” He continued, “To have an entire trail network wiped off the face of the earth would be a mighty blow, not just for hikers, but for regional businesses.” These trails, though crossing through private property, were open to the public for at least 20 years prior to the recent sale, as the recovered logbooks prove.

We followed up on the story in our November 14 2024 Edition after obtaining a building permit from LUPC outlining the new owner’s plans for the parcel. Here’s an excerpt: “A building permit for a portion of the property was submitted by Sevee & Maher Engineers out of Cumberland, Maine, on behalf of Burnt Jacket Holding I, LLC for a ‘proposed barn off Burnt Jacket Road in Beaver Cove.’ The project summary for permit number 17544 reads as follows: ‘Agricultural barn. Includes Tractor and Equipment storage, feed storage, hayloft, greenhouse, and chicken coop.’ Another portion of the project with permit number 17544-A describes a, ‘Year-round dwelling with attached garage, detached garage, driveway, and one shed. Install well, septic system, and utility lines.’ Both appear to have been approved by LUPC representative Billie J. Theriault on August 22, 2024.

Recently, the Moosehead Lakeshore Journal reached out to the Natural Resources Council of Maine for comment, and #NRCM’s Staff Scientist and Woods, Waters, & Wildlife Director Luke Frankel poignantly shared, “The loss of Maine’s longstanding tradition of public access to private land is one of the greatest threats facing the #NorthWoods. This case at Burnt Jacket Mountain is a potent example of what we’ve been hearing from other parts of the state.

Changes in landownership and a rise in development pressure since the pandemic have changed the landscape of the Unorganized Territories. Our land trusts, outdoor recreation clubs, and other local community-based organizations play a critically important role building strong relationships with landowners to solidify the trust that is at the core of Maine’s tradition of public access. We also need to begin a statewide conversation about this emerging threat to identify solutions and pathways for ensuring equitable public access is a value held by everyone.”

Though the story of Burnt Jacket Mountain has caused quite a stir and exemplifies a statewide issue, six months later, we still don’t have answers, and not for lack of trying. Recently, however, a new pending project on the parcel has raised some eyebrows, and whispers of the true identity of the landowner have narrowed down the list of possibilities as the Journal has uncovered new clues.

The new Burnt Jacket project, which is still awaiting permit approval from LUPC at the time of publication, is for a “…proposed driveway…4059’ long and 16’ wide with a minimum of 2’ wide shoulders on both sides; it is located entirely on private property…Construction is scheduled to be completed in 2025.” The permit application says the driveway will be used for “residential and land management” uses.

Perhaps more interesting than a pending driveway permit, one name has risen to the top of the list of rumored buyers. Though it remains speculatory, the Moosehead Lakeshore Journal has uncovered evidence that seems to point to billionaire tech CEO Mark Zuckerberg, one of the property’s rumored buyers.

Though, much to my chagrin, it seems anyone and everyone involved in the Burnt Jacket project has signed a non-disclosure agreement, I found that Zuckerberg very publicly keeps his business holdings in the State of Delaware. While searching through the State of Delaware’s website, I came upon an interesting clue: Burnt Jacket Holdings I & II both list Incorporating Services out of Delaware as the Registered Agent.

While this in and of itself doesn’t mean very much, I decided to search META, which we know is owned by Mark Zuckerberg, in the same database. In my search, I found that at least three of the dozens of META companies associated with Mark Zuckerberg actually list the very same Incorporating Services as the Registered Agent. While this information doesn’t prove Zuckerberg is the Burnt Jacket mystery buyer, it does little to dismiss it. Of all the holding companies in the world, the same Incorporating Services serves as the registered agent of Burnt Jacket Holdings and several companies we know are associated with Mark Zuckerberg. Coincidence? You decide.

It may seem unbelievable to some that Mark Zuckerberg might soon be our neighbor here in the Moosehead Lake Region, but it really isn’t that far of a stretch. One of Zuckerberg’s former associates owns property in the Moosehead Region, Zuckerberg has been known to vacation in Maine, and Mark Zuckerberg held a highly publicized meeting in 2017 with members of the Katahdin Region in Millinocket to discuss the future of the area. As many know, the Katahdin Region is right in Burnt Jacket’s backyard, at least as the crow flies."

Source:
https://www.mooseheadlakeshorejournal.com/burntjacketmystery/

#MarkZuckerberg #BeaverCove #BurntMountain #Zuck #MarkZuckerberg #TaxTheBillionaires #ZuckSucks #Maine #MaineTrails #TaxTheRich #PenobscotLand #Landback

Does Facebook’s #MarkZuckerberg Really Own a #Maine Mountain?

by Cooper Fox
Published: November 16, 2025

"For over a century, Maine has been a playground for the rich and famous.

"The trend started back in the 1800s when wealthy businessmen from Boston and New York would send their families to the Maine wilderness in order to escape the heat and nastiness of the cities.

"More recently, we have seen famous musicians and actors vacation in Maine. Kenny Chesney, Gwen Stefani, Blake Shelton, and Jimmy Fallon, for example. Some notable celebrities have even bought homes in Maine. #MarthaStewart and #JohnTravolta, we're looking at you.

"Even Mark Zuckerberg, the man behind the most successful social media platform of all time, has vacationed in Maine.

"Actually, it now appears that he may own a piece of property in Maine.

Who Owns Maine's Burnt Jacket Mountain?

"According to a recent article in the New York Times, there is some evidence pointing to the land being purchased by Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla.

"The article explains that the 1,400 acre property, located near #MooseheadLake, had been purchased for $8 million in 2022. The purchase was done through an LLC in order to keep the buyer's identity a secret.

"However, as Maine is just one big small town, people began to talk. The article explains that one person, who reportedly used to work for the town of #GreenvilleME, posted on Facebook that it definitely was Mark Zuckerberg

"As far as we know, the Zuckerberg's have not been spotted near the property since it was purchased. However, the article does explain that notices have been sent to local tourism organizations asking that Burnt Jacket Mountain be removed from their list of places where it is acceptable to #hike.

"Additionally, there have been permits filed for the construction of a massive new house on the property. The home is described as encompassing 3,750 square foot home with garages, patios, decks, parking lots and a driveway that would stretch for nearly a mile."

Read More: Does Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg Really Own a Maine Mountain? | https://b985.fm/burnt-jacket-mountain-maine-owner/?utm_source=tsmclip&utm_medium=referral

#BeaverCove #BurntMountain #Zuck #MarkZuckerberg #TaxTheBillionaires
#ZuckSucks #Maine #MaineTrails #TaxTheRich #PenobscotLand #Landback

Does Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg Really Own a Maine Mountain?

Maine's allure for the wealthy endures, with celebrities like Mark Zuckerberg rumored to own a sprawling 1,400-acre estate, sparking curiosity about their plans for this picturesque retreat.

B98.5

Well, if #Zuck is living here, then we should tax the shit out of him!

Locals outraged over developer's shocking act at popular hiking trail: 'We don't know why or for what purpose'

"There was some chatter."

by Alexis McDonell, July 3, 2025

"For generations, #BurntJacketMountain was a quiet sanctuary in the #MaineWoods. It was a place where locals hiked after work, kids scrambled up trails with their dogs, and tourists stumbled upon postcard views of #MooseheadLake. Then, one day last fall, the trail was closed without explanation, reported Bangor Daily News.

"Now, residents of #BeaverCove and nearby #Greenville are learning just how vulnerable even longtime public-use lands can be when money and greedy #developers enter the picture.

"In 2022, more than 1,400 acres surrounding Burnt Jacket Mountain were quietly sold for $8.1 million to an anonymous buyer operating through two holding companies. The deal included over two miles of lakefront and the entire trail system. The buyer has since filed plans to build a 3,750-square-foot lakefront home and closed the trails to the public, leaving residents with more questions than answers.

" 'It's what everyone is wondering,' Joe Babbitt, the select board chair in Beaver Cove, said, per Bangor Daily News. 'There's all kinds of gossip out there, saying it's everyone from the sultan of Egypt to 'insert your billionaire of choice here.''

"While private ownership of forests is common in Maine — about 95% of forest is privately owned — public access has often been granted out of custom and cooperation. Burnt Jacket Mountain was historically owned by #PaperCompanies and then timber firms like #McPhersonTimberlands, which allowed #PublicUse.

"However, that informal understanding is rapidly vanishing, replaced by high-end marketing, out-of-state buyers, and closed gates.

"The loss has hit the community hard.

"Burnt Jacket was a [close-to-town] locals' gem, this loss definitely stings to hiking enthusiasts that have used the trails time and time again over the years," Steve Yocom, executive director of Destination Moosehead Lake, said, per Bangor Daily News."

Read more:
https://www.thecooldown.com/green-business/burnt-jacket-mountain-maine-trails-closed/

#MarkZuckerberg #TaxTheBillionaires #ZuckSucks #Maine #MaineTrails #TaxTheRich #PenobscotLand #Landback

Locals outraged over developer's shocking act at popular hiking trail: 'We don't know why or for what purpose'

For generations, Burnt Jacket Mountain was a quiet sanctuary in the Maine woods. Then, the trail was mysteriously closed.

The Cool Down

Bike & Brew on the #EasternTrail with Lone Pine Brewing – Sat., June 28

Saturday, June 28, 2025 – SUMMER BIKE & BREW SERIES

Lone Pine Brewing Company, 32 East Grand Avenue Old Orchard Beach, ME.

"Join us for the second Bike and Brew ride of the 2025 season. This social 15-20 mile ride, primarily along the Eastern Trail, starts and finishes at Lone Pine Brewing in #OldOrchardBeachME. Click below to reserve your spot. After the ride, all are welcome to meet at Lone Pine Brewing for beers, cheers, and good conversation.

"Riders are encouraged to assemble in the parking lot at Lone Pine Brewing starting at 10:00am. The ride will start at 10:30 am.

"This is a free event however, donations to the Eastern Trail are most appreciated and can be submitted during the checkout process.

10:00 AM – Meet at Lone Pine Brewing in Old Orchard Beach
10:30 AM-12:30 PM: Bike the Eastern Trail with ET staff
12:30 PM -1:30 PM: Beers, Relaxation & Fun at Lone Pine Brewing

PLEASE NOTE: We can fix a flat tire for you on the ride but you need to bring the spare tube.

RAIN DATE: The rain date is Sunday, June 28, 2025, at 10am. If we need to postpone due to rain, registered participants will be notified via email and a notice will be posted on our social media."

FMI and to register:
https://www.easterntrail.org/category/uncategorised/latest-news/

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineEvents #MaineTrails #MaineByBicycle #SouthernMaine #BikeTooter #BikeParty #BikeAndBrew

Latest News – The Eastern Trail

#Maine - #EasternTrail

"The Eastern Trail is a 62 mile multi-use, non-motorized greenway, that connects Bug Light in Casco Bay, South Portland to Kittery, Maine. Approximately thirty percent of the trail is off-road, and the trail is a part of the #EastCoastGreenway which will eventually connect #CalaisMaine to #KeyWestFlorida, approximately 3000 miles. The Eastern Trail is currently composed of 21 miles of off-road trails on the former Eastern Railroad bed with the remainder 41 miles on public roads.

"The entirety of the Eastern Trail is built to ADA standards. The trail surface varies between pavement and stone dust/gravel. Most of the trail is 10-12 feet wide, with some sections with an 8-foot width. There is a 30-inch opening between the bollards at entrances to keep out motorized vehicles, but wide enough to allow access for wheelchairs.

"The off-road section connecting Scarbrough to Saco privdes access to the 2200-acre Scarborough Marsh, which is Maine's largest salt marsh. Heading north on the trail from Pine Point (ME-9) or south from Eastern Road in Scarborough provides access to this 2.5 mile stretch of trail.

"Heading south from Pine Point Road, the trail crosses the York County and Cumberland County boundaries and users can walk/bike from Scarborough, through Old Orchard Beach to Saco, where the current-off-road trail ends at Thornton Academy in Saco, approximately 6 miles from the Pine Point kiosk.

"There are kiosks at 3 parking areas, that give some history and points of interest along the trail. For example, the Eastern Trail is built on the old Eastern #Railroad line that was built in 1840 and abandoned in 1945. Also, Charles Lindberg flew into the now abandoned Scarborough airport several times. And, a trestle once carried open air trolleys from the rail line to Old Orchard Beach for summer tourists."

Source and FMI:
https://www.mainetrailfinder.com/trails/trail/eastern-trail-saco-to-scarborough

Eastern Trail Guide (downloadable PDF and booklets): https://www.easterntrail.org/eastern-trail-maps/

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineTrails #MaineByFoot #MaineByBicycle #Nature #SouthernMaine #AccessibleTrails #BikePaths #EasternTrail #AbandonedRailroads #RailsToTrails

Eastern Trail - Saco to Scarborough

This off-road section of the Eastern Trail offers over 8 miles of flat easy trails connecting Saco, Old Orchard Beach, and Scarborough. The northern end of this section traverses the Scarbrough Marsh providing scenic views and wildlife watching.

Maine Trail Finder

#Maine - Indian Cellar

"#SacoRiver Indian Cellar is an 81-acre municipal park maintained by the Hollis Conservation Commission. Visitors will find 8 different trails encompassing 2.5 miles that lead to the scenic shores of the Saco River and a handful of picnic spots. The preserve offers opportunities for cross-country skiing, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, running, snowshoeing, swimming, and hiking. Canoe and kayak access to Indian Cellar is available nearby at Pleasant Point Park in Buxton. The #LandForMainesFuture Board supported the acquisition of the Saco River Indian Cellar in 2009.

"Indian Cellar Preserve contains roughly three miles of trails that lead to the mouth of the Saco River. A 1.6-mile perimeter trail wraps around the river, with several additional interior trails. The site divides the towns of #BuxtonME and #HollisME. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities at the site during all four seasons, including swimming, hiking, fishing, and cross-country skiing.

"The Indian Cellar got its name from the bedrock walls along the Saco River, which were deep and cool enough for #Indigenous people to store their food. Thanks to the town of Hollis, the Land for Maine’s Future program, and several private donors, the site was preserved in 2009 after a developer proposed dividing the land into several expensive lots."

Activities: Cross-country skiing, fishing, horseback riding, mountain biking, running, snowshoeing, swimming, picnicking, and hiking

FMI - https://mainebyfoot.com/indian-cellar-preserve-hollis/

History sources:
https://www.nrcm.org/explore-maine-map/indian-cellar-preserve/

https://landformainesfuture.org/destination/saco-river-indian-cellar/

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineTrails
#MaineByFoot #NaturePreserve
#Nature #PreservingNature #SouthernMaine

Indian Cellar Preserve, Hollis - Maine by Foot

Check out how to get to this walk and what to expect.

Maine by Foot

#Maine - Pleasant Point Park

"Pleasant Point Park is located on the Simpson Road and is truly the gem of all the Buxton’s Parks. The Park contains some of the most pristine land in Buxton. Enter through the stone gates and walk down Wiggin’s Way, a dirt road that leads you to the most gorgeous point of land overlooking the Saco River. This 60-acre Park is a wonderful place to relax and visit. It is truly a treasure right in our own backyard.

"Follow the walking trail on the south side and you soon come to the ancient burial ground of the early settlers. The sacred ground is well marked with stones around the parameter and simple rocks marking the grave sites. The burial ground is on very high land and has one of the most beautiful vistas of the entire Saco River. Continuing on the same trail weaving back toward the entrance, the foundation of the Woodman home is visible. Imagine the hardship and dangers the Woodman family faced in those early days as they helped shape history as the Salmon Falls village began to prosper.

"The Park provides several picnic tables scatter around the Park, there are NO grills or fire of any type allowed. There is access for hand carry boats, canoes, kayaks and swimming. This area of the Saco River is approximately 50 feet deep (Please note there are no lifeguards on duty). There are several hiking trails, dogs are welcome if leashed and please pick-up after your dog. There is a handicapped accessible portable toilet at the end of Wiggin’s Way. There is limited parking available and please NO snowmobiles or motorized bikes allowed.

"The Park opens at 7 a.m. and closes promptly at. 8 p.m."

Pleasant Point Park History

"Originally called the 'Cyrus Woodman Reservation' Pleasant Point Park was placed in a trust by the Woodman family. In 1923 the Park was given to Appalachian Mountain Club by Mary Woodman.

"In 1945 the AMC gave the Park to the State of Maine.

"In 1959, the town of Buxton received a letter from the State Park Commission saying that they would not entertain the idea of transferring ownership of (Pleasant Point Park) because of the State’s plan to develop the property. However, the plans were not carried out due to the Class “D” (unsuitable for public recreation due to the water quality of the Saco River adjacent to Pleasant Point Park at the time. In 1960 the Buxton Selectmen proposed a lease agreement with the State of Maine Park Commission. At their annual meeting, the townspeople voted it down, again because of the Class “D” designation.

"In 1971 the Town of Buxton entered a 5 year renewable license with the State to use the land with some covenants in place. In June of 1989 the Park was deeded to the Town on Buxton."

More info about the trails:
https://mainebyfoot.com/pleasant-point-park-buxton/

Park history source:
https://www.buxton.me.us/pages/town-parks#five

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineTrails #MaineByFoot #Maine #NaturePreserve #Nature #PreservingNature #SouthernMaine

Pleasant Point Park, Buxton - Maine by Foot

Check out how to get to this walk and what to expect.

Maine by Foot

#MaineNotes, October 2, 2024

In #MaineNews, #ScarboroughMaine Town Council may put the brakes on the #GorhamSpur tonight, and #BuxtonMaine refuses to pay for 1/2 of a separate pedestrian bridge on busy Route 202 over the #SacoRiver (connecting two trail systems), leaving #HollisMaine to foot the bill (if they decide to pay for it). Meanwhile, #Searsport voters say "yes" to an offshore wind port, but will it be on undeveloped #SearsIsland, or already developed #MackPoint?

#SaveSmilingHillFarm #ProtectSearsIsland #ProtectWahsumkik #Maine #MaineTrails