Baxter State Park

Baxter State Park is a large wilderness preserve in north-central Maine established through land donations by Percival P. Baxter, with Mount Katahdin as its defining feature.

The park was assembled and donated by Percival P. Baxter during the early to mid-20th century and set aside with the stipulation that it remain a largely undeveloped wilderness. It is managed by a park authority under a charter that emphasizes conservation and traditional, low-impact recreation.

Located in north-central Maine, the park occupies a remote forested and mountainous area; access is via roads and trailheads outside the park boundary near small gateway communities.

• Access rules: Strict access and wilderness rules are enforced by the park authority; permits or registrations are required for many backcountry and overnight activities.
• Founding: The park was created through land donations and purchases by Percival P. Baxter and is managed to preserve a large, roadless wilderness in perpetuity.

What to See #

• Mount Katahdin (Baxter Peak): The highest summit in the park and the state of Maine; trails lead to the summit from several trailheads and it forms the northern terminus of a long-distance hiking route.
• Chimney Pond: A frequently visited alpine pond and campsite below the mountain, used by hikers as a base for summit attempts and multi-day treks.