Baxter State Park

mount katahdin under blue skies in baxter state park

Baxter State Park is an expansive wilderness area of almost 210,000 acres. It’s part of the North Maine Woods yet has its own distinct history that will be summarized in a bit. This amazing expanse is part of Piscataquis County and lies west of interstate 95. To the east it borders the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument.

The park contains its very own mountain range with Katahdin being its outstanding feature. This dramatic massif alone is worth the visit. It can be daunting for hikers yet beckoning for those who seek peace, time in nature, and moments awaiting the appearance of Maine’s magnificent wildlife.

You’ll want to plan ahead for your visit here, even if it’s a seemingly simple daytrip. After all, getting to the park is an adventure unto itself! Before getting into what you’ll see and need to know, let’s take a quick look at the Baxter State Park’s history as knowing it will truly add to your appreciation of the time you spend when visiting.

The Baxter History

Baxter State Park is named after its visionary founder, Percival Baxter, who was a governor of Maine in the 1920s. He made his first purchase of land in what is today’s park in 1930, and the following year donated the land to the State of Maine. Over the next 30-plus years he continued to acquire parcels, adding to its size which has continued to grow with more land acquisitions.

He designated that a large portion of the park be kept as a wildlife sanctuary. His vision and generosity assures that state funds are not needed for the park’s continued maintenance. Three public Maine officials and an advisory board are those responsible for overseeing the park.

The Friends of Baxter About page provides a rich introduction to all that the park holds for visitors. A deeply insightful piece from the Sierra Club relates Henry David Thoreau’s experience on and with Katahdin. Reading that will prepare you for what you read here about hiking.

Traveling to Baxter State Park & Katahdin

Up here in Maine we have a tongue-in-cheek saying, “You can’t get there from heyah.” Although that’s not exactly true for wending your way to Baxter State Park and Katahdin, it may seem that way by the time you get arrive. You’ll soon see that the beauty of your travel time unfolds as you gradually become acclimated to the wilderness. Yup, you’ll know when, as the peace and beauty washes over you.

Let’s back up a bit, giving you an idea of mileage from this place or that to Millinocket, as that’s where your wilderness journey really begins!

With that, let’s get practical about travel matters! And that includes washing, as you’re leaving the comfort-of-home accommodations behind. Okay, best to qualify that. Many modern-day comforts are left behind if you’re camping. As you’ll learn when reading on, there are places to stay outside of the park that provide a modicum of luxury along with wilderness.

Friends of Baxter State Park & Headquarters

The Friends of Baxter State Park site has a no-fuss Prepare for Your Trip guide with directions to get to either the south or north entrance. Short story is that your best bet is to drive Interstate 95, getting off at Exit 244, then heading to Millinocket. There you’ll find the park Headquarters with hours that vary by season. Phone contact info is available.

You then head west on Rt. 11 and turn right onto the Golden Road shortly after going past the Millinocket Regional Hospital turnoff. Everyone up here knows where the Golden Road is, so don’t hesitate to ask if in doubt. The guide is right about GPS in this neck of the woods—best not to rely on it. Okay, now that you’re headed in the right direction, it’s about 17 miles from the Rt. 11 turnoff to the Togue Pond Gatehouse, the southern entrance to the park.

One last point is to keep reading to be ready as being prepared for your trip here involves a bit more than a day at the beach!

The Golden Road Rules

logging truck on the golden road Now that I’ve got your attention, these rules are actually words of wisdom and caution. That’s because:

  • Much of it is dirt
  • It’s narrow and twists and turns
  • BIG log trucks use this road—and they go FAST
  • The wildlife like it here too—and many of them are like the trucks. Yup, big and fast!
  • As we say up here, “keep your eyes peeled” for all of the above!

Your friends back home are likely to ask why it’s called the Golden Road. One version goes that it cost Great Northern Paper a real pretty penny to build. The other is that it leads to one of the grandest patches of woodland in this country! Weave those together with what you experience in Baxter, and you’ll have quite a lot to tell.

Now that you’re becoming more acquainted with where you’re headed, it’s time to get into the real nitty-gritty of what to take with you. That also means what to leave behind. As part of this, from here on out, when you read Baxter this and that, you’ll know it’s about the park. The same goes for Katahdin. You’ll be grateful for a bit of brevity, as there’s a fair amount of reading and preparation that goes into visiting a parcel of land as big as Baxter.

Where to Begin About Baxter!

You’re probably already getting the idea that this is not your ordinary camping trip. Then again, it may be that is exactly what you were looking for! Either way, you’ll want to be prepared. That’s because the North Maine Woods area is at a northern latitude. Yup, we get cold nights, even in July and August. When’s the last time you slept in a 45-degree lean-to? Well, I did last August, and it wasn’t as far north as where you’re headed. Given that, here’s some things to think about as you prepare for your Baxter adventure.

People up here want you to safely enjoy your experience, regardless of the season or length of stay. We also appreciate your following our guidelines and rules. People doing so helps to assure that the Baxter legacy carries on season to season and year after year.

Need to Know Info for Hiking & Camping

Because Baxter means being out in the wild, there’s a lot of info that applies to day hikes as well as week-long camping expeditions. The prepare page has all kinds of useful info. Here are snippets on important points. Please be sure to read the linked pages so you have all of the important information ahead of time.

This first portion of information is general, applying to hiking and camping. More specific info for one or the other is found in the later sections.

Reservations

One reason for planning ahead is that camping spaces at Baxter and Katahdin trailhead parking are like prime real estate. The reservations are quickly purchased!

Parking

The best way to be assured a parking spot for the Katahdin Trailheads only is to reserve yours ahead of time, especially during the summer. Other trailhead parking is first come, first served, as there are no reservations.

Camping

There are several specifics related to camping reservations for both summer and winter. Knowing these will avoid delays in your plans, as well as disappointment.

Accessibility

Although there is limited accessibility for people with disabilities, there is some which is detailed on the linked page, including a cabin at each of two campgrounds.

Clothing

While you’re packing up all the hiking and camping gear needed, it can be easy to overlook back country clothing. Yup, we’re talking what’s needed for temps that can vary 40-50 degrees in a matter of hours. Plus, planning by the season and being prepared for rain, snow, or ice. You’ll want to include:

  • Well-fitting foot gear, including hiking boots
  • Warm hats, gloves, and socks
  • Rain gear—tops, pants, and hats

Flashlights & Illumination

It’s a park rule to have flashlights and/or headlamps when hiking as well as camping. It’s a good idea to have backup, as it gets really dark up here in Baxter!

First Aid Kit

We’re talking one that goes beyond ointment and simple bandages. You’ll want to be prepared for treating:

  • Burns, lacerations, bumps, and tick bites
  • Heat exhaustion or chilling
  • Sprains and stings

Pets

Pets are not allowed in Baxter. This gives your fur-family a chance for some R&R to their liking.

Wildlife

bull moose in baxter state park One reason for leaving pets at home is for the sake of wildlife. There’s a lot of that in Baxter. We respect that we’re in their home. That means:

  • Keeping food and garbage in secure containers, whether you’re hiking or camping.
  • Taking all scraps and leftovers out with you. The wildlife have plenty of their own food right here.
  • Don’t approach any wild animal, especially moose. If you’re taking pictures, do so from a distance.

When Nature Calls

You know nature will call even if your time in Baxter is limited. The ‘when you gotta go’ instructions are entertaining as well as informative!

You’ll read about the outhouses and ways to keep them clean and well-functioning for everyone. Clear guidance is provided for above and below tree line “#2” needs.

Water & Wood

Best to tote in the water you’ll need. The only water sources are natural, calling for water treatment supplies. Nope, you won’t find any spigots like there are in some parks. When we say wilderness in Baxter, it’s true! That applies as well to toilet and bathing facilities.

Check out the Leave No Trace page for how to be fully prepared, including washing up.

Please leave your firewood at home, even if it’s from Maine. What you need is right here and reasonably priced. What you don’t use gets to stay here for the next campers.

Carry In | Carry Out

It’s rather interesting that when venturing to places that are ‘carry in, carry out’ one thinks twice about what really needs to go. In this case, please bring your own trash bags as there aren’t any receptacles.

Explore

The Baxter explore fills you in on:

  • Canoe and kayak rentals
  • Where to picnic
  • Watching wildlife
  • Fishing
  • Biking
  • Hunting

Cell and WIFI Service

There is no cell service throughout almost all of Baxter. This applies to both voice and data.

Rules & Regulations

The Baxter State Park Authority has a set of rules and regulations that are worth a review as these include important points related to:

  • Vehicles, Boats, Bikes, and Flying Things
  • Group Size
  • Animals
  • Hunting, Trapping, & Fishing
  • Protecting and Preserving Resources and Wilderness
  • Fires & Firearms
  • Power Items

Hiking

Ready, on your mark, get set, Hike! Baxter is a hiker’s paradise:

  • There are over 220 miles of hiking trails and most aren’t on Katahdin.
  • Baxter has over 40 mountain peaks…amazing!
  • Climbing Katahdin is an all-day event and then some as climbers gain over 4000 feet in elevation.

Appalachian Trail

The most northern miles of the Appalachian Trail are in Baxter. AT Hikers can use the park using a permit system clearly described on the linked page.

Pick Your Trails

It’s a good idea to set aside time to select trails that match your levels of strength and endurance.

  • The descriptions are quite helpful, filling you in on each trail
  • Plus you’ll read about special features
  • You’ll learn about spots for folks with limited mobility

Once you pick them, print those you’d like to try. Some will be busier than others, hence the reason for having options.

Reserve Katahdin Trailhead Parking

Yup, we mentioned that earlier. This is just a gentle reminder. The parking for other trailheads is first vehicle there, gets the space.

Katahdin Trails to Try

hiker viewing knife edge trail on mt katahdin in baxter state park
We’re highlighting a few here to offer you some variety. As you go view each on the Baxter website, you’ll see that a number are rated as very strenuous. Please take that seriously, as they are!

Word has it that Hunt Trail is one of the most popular. If that’s your pick, be aware that it’s:

  • Very strenuous
  • Got an elevation gain of 4000 feet
  • A place with wonderful features, meaning you’ll want time to tarry here and there
  • Gonna take you all day, a long one, for this round-trip adventure

Chimney Pond is rated as moderate. Even then, be ready for:

  • A hike that’s 3+ miles each way with a gain 1400 feet elevation
  • Plenty of water…yippee!
  • A trail that’s primarily rock covered

If you’re looking for outstanding views, give Hamlin Ridge a try that:

  • Is rated strenuous for its 1.5-mile one-way climb, gaining 1800 feet
  • Can be accessed via Chimney Pond
  • Is even better when you camp at Roaring Brook Campground as you can take your pick of trails without parking worries.

For anyone contemplating the Knife Edge, it’s advisable to read up on it, as in conduct a lot of research. This is one place to be sure you’re fit, the weather is balmy, and you’re in good company.

Prepare

As you read the prepare lists, keep in mind that there are no corner stores in Baxter. In some ways, it’s better to have a bit too much in your vehicle than not enough. In particular, that applies to fuel, water, food, and extra clothes and illumination.

Camping

Absolutely everything you need to know about summer camping in Baxter is on the park’s website. The link gives details about summer camping with dates that usually run from mid-May to mid-October. One nifty part of this resource is that you can view photos of the various camping spots.

Another page gives you the need-to-know info about winter camping that goes from December 1 through March. You’ll find camping options plus a great list of basics. It’s worthwhile checking that out regardless of when you’ll be going. It’s wise to be realistic about all that Baxter winter camping and hiking entail. It’s true that a rescue can take hours or days.

Special Points

These are the sort of details you want to know ahead of time.

  • Check out the reservation page to learn when to make yours
  • The summer camping page, as noted above, is a good place to view what a site looks like
  • You’ll need to check in before 8:30 p.m. on your first night of camping
  • Even in the summer, campsites vary by date when they can be used
  • There are group sites with some restricted to 12 people and others open to more

Need Some Care?

In this case, we’re talking the healthcare or emergency kind. Even something as seemingly simply as a splinter can turn nasty. Millinocket Regional Hospital is just down the road from Baxter. There are walk-in services Monday through Friday, and of course, emergency care around the clock.

Search & Rescue

Accidents happen despite preparation and being cautious. That’s why it’s good to know that Maine has volunteer rescue teams to be there for people in need.

Creature Comforts Outside Baxter

The greater Baxter State Park and North Maine Woods area offers you many recreational and relaxation options. You may prefer to stay in a lodge rather than stay in the park. Fortunately you can enjoy the best of both worlds, with a bit of luxury mixed with wilderness.

That’s especially true during cool and downright cold months. You’ll find accommodations just right for you at one or any of these places. If traveling with a pet, keep in mind that your fur friend cannot enter the park.

5 Lakes Lodge looks out on Baxter and Katahdin. Guests enjoy the vast wonders and views of the area, as well as breakfast, kayaks, canoes, and WIFI service! It’s a scenic 25-mile drive from Baxter’s south gate at Togue Pond.

Mt. Chase Lodge, located in Patten, is a pet-friendly place where you get to enjoy all kinds of year-round adventures. Added to that you’ll get breakfast and can enjoy dinner there later in the week. The lodge is just over a half-hour drive from Baxter’s north Matagamon gate.

The New England Outdoor Center NEOC offers year round accommodations, some of which are pet-friendly. You’ll see that questions about what to do and bring with you are answered. Check out the hours of the River Drivers Restaurant as we don’t want you to go hungry! You can also check in on the Scootic In Restaurant and Sawmill Bar & Grill for local cuisine. NEOC is 10 miles from Baxter’s Togue Pond south gate.

There are several grocery stores in Millinocket. You’ll want to stock up on what’s needed before heading into Baxter. Remember, that there’s no corner stores up in that vast expanse. Going in from Millinocket, you’re reminded of that at North Woods Trading Post where you’re alerted that’s where you’ll find the last gas and WIFI. This is a good place to pick up that extra layer of clothing you need, and souvenirs for the folks back home. Nice part is you can order some online after you get home, lightening your travel load a bit.

Time to Begin Your Baxter| Katahdin Trip!

Whether you’re headed to Baxter in the coming months or years, we hope you’ll enjoy each step you take, now and when you’re up this way!