The visitor center at Baxter State Park is open Monday through Friday from 8AM to 4PM, and on weekends from Memorial Day through Indigenous Peoples’ Day, also from 8AM to 4PM.
Non-residents pay $20 per vehicle for a day; a season pass is $50. Maine residents enter free.#
Drive via Millinocket, ME. 200 miles from Portland, 71 miles from Bangor. Closest airport: Bangor. Public transit is limited; a car is recommended.
At Baxter State Park, parking is available at three Katahdin trailheads: Roaring Brook, Abol, and Katahdin Stream. A $10 fee is required for a Katahdin Trailhead Pass per vehicle. Parking is for day use only; no overnight parking. The lots accommodate cars and small RVs, but not large RVs or motorhomes. Motorcycles are also permitted.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Located in the heart of Maine, Baxter State Park is a sanctuary of over 200,000 acres of unspoiled wilderness, donated by former Governor Percival P. Baxter. It’s renowned for Mount Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. The park features over 200 miles of trails, varied ecosystems, and opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and solitude. From alpine tundra to serene meadows, it promises rugged adventures and scenic serenity for all experience levels.
- Area (mi²)
- 328
- Annual visitors
- 58 342
- Established year
- 1931
Top 3 Facts about Baxter State Park
The park includes about 25,000 acres of lakes, ponds, and wetlands, with Grand Lake Matagamon being the largest at 4,165 acres, surrounded by undisturbed forest.
Mount Katahdin is the highest peak in Maine and the northern end of the Appalachian Trail.
The park features dense forests, alpine tundra, and lakes—habitat for moose, black bears, and bird species.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Make reservations for camping and parking early, especially for Mount Katahdin trails.
Pack Appropriately
Bring food, water, layers—no stores or dining in the park.
Respect Wildlife
Stay at a safe distance from all animals. Do not feed wildlife. Avoid mothers with young.
Stay Informed
Check weather and alerts on the official Baxter State Park website.
Seasons
Melting snow brings muddy trails but also blooming flora and active wildlife. Temps range 30°F–60°F. Ideal for hikes & photos.
Warm, sunny days (70–80°F) perfect for hiking, camping, and full access to the park’s amenities.
Cool (30–50°F) with stunning foliage and fewer crowds—perfect for peaceful photography hikes.
Cold (−10°F to 20°F). Great for snowshoeing, skiing, snowmobiling, and cozy winter cabin stays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Baxter State Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit Baxter State Park, you should stay in Millinocket, Maine, as it offers the closest and most convenient accommodations. Millinocket is centrally located in the Katahdin region and provides easy access to the park. Big Moose Inn, Cabins & Campground, located on Millinocket Lake, is one of the closest full-service options.
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For a kid-friendly hike, consider the Caverly Pond trail, which is only 3/10s of a mile long and has minimal elevation gain, making it an ideal short and easy hike for children. Another option is the Burnt Mountain trail, a 1.2-mile hike with a modest elevation gain of 740 feet, which is more manageable for kids compared to the summit of Mt. Katahdin.
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Dogs, except for certified service dogs, are not allowed. Pets can damage protected habitats and rare vegetation. False service animal certifications can result in a $1000 fine and a ban from the park.
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Yes, there are parking fees. Out-of-state vehicles pay $20 to enter, and a day-use parking reservation costs $10 per vehicle. Maine residents do not pay an entrance fee.
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The top attraction is Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine at 5,267 feet and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. This mountain was a central focus of Percival P. Baxter’s efforts to create a wilderness haven. It offers several challenging trails, including the famous Knife Edge Trail.
