Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Jennifer
Baxter State Park was a gift from former Maine governor Percival P. Baxter. The park has 46 mountain peaks and ridges. Its highest elevation, Baxter Peak, reaches 5,267 feet. About 200 miles of trails are maintained by the park.
Trails
There are 37 major trails in the park. The Appalachian Trail's northern terminus is at the park's Katahdin mountain. The Pogy Notch Trail is the longest trail, totaling 9.61 miles. The shortest trail you can hike is the South Branch Falls Trail, which is just under half a mile (0.43 miles).
Geography
The park is located in Piscataquis County in Maine and comprises a total of 209,501 acres. Notable landforms include the Katahdin massif and the Traveler mountain range.
Climate
The park's climate is typically moist and cool as it is located in the Northern Forest Region of the North American continent. The annual mean temperature is 38.6 degrees Fahrenheit, and the record high temperature is 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Campgrounds
If you want to camp at Baxter State Park, you have a total of ten locations to choose from. Campgrounds are located at Roaring Brook, Trout Brook Farm, Abol, Katahdin Stream, Nesowadnehunk, Chimney Pond, Russell Pond, South Branch Pond, Daicey Pond and Kidney Pond. Narrow roads limit trailer access to some camping sites.
Water
The three largest bodies of water in the state park are Nesowadnehunk Lake, Grand Lake Matagamon and Webster Lake. Although Baxter State Park is a wilderness park, its water is not safe for consumption. It is advisable to bring your own water supply.
About The Author
Rona Aquino is an experienced writer in running, health tips and fitness. She is a proud Terp from University of Maryland College Park with a Bachelor of Arts in Communications and English. Aquino is a contributing writer to Trails.com and Examiner.com as the DC Trail Running Examiner.
