When winter arrives at Baxter State Park, tent camping and picnicking turns into cabin camping and snowshoeing. Explore sprawling expanses of wilderness, winding snow-covered hiking trails, and the thrill of snowmobiling. The opportunities are endless. Here’s how to enjoy the best winter weekend getaway at Baxter State Park.
“Wilderness first, recreation second.” This was the philosophy of Governor Percival P. Baxter, who donated the parcel of land that became Baxter State Park to the state of Maine. He did so under the condition that it remain wild forever. He added to the land over the years until it was the size it is today. With 209,644 acres of immaculate wilderness, 215 miles of hiking trails, and 337 campsites, you can make your own adventure at Baxter State Park.
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Snowmobiling is allowed inside Baxter State Park, but only on the Park Tote Road. The road isn’t groomed, so enthusiasts must gauge their abilities as well as recent snowfall amounts before hitting the trails.
Hiking in winter at Baxter State Park can be tricky, especially the closer one gets to Mount Katahdin. Hiking above the tree line is only for advanced hikers with lots of winter experience. But Dwelley Pond Trail offers a relatively flat hike below the tree line that is about five miles each way. It’s for intermediate to experienced hikers. Be sure to check out the trail map before you head out!
Bunkhouse and cabin camping throughout the winter months is available. The bunkhouses feature wood stoves for both cooking and heat. Even though campers are in from the direct elements, it’s imperative to prepare well, as conditions mean these camping options are also very chilly. Reservations are required for any camping at Baxter State Park.
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Ice fishing at Baxter State Park is both fruitful and fun, and may take place at three locations. Grand Lake Matagamon is noted for its ice fishing, where brook trout, salmon and togue are typically plentiful. Togue Pond is located at Mount Katahdin’s base, and has a daily limit of two trout and two splake. Webster Lake is a favorite of local ice fishermen and women, but do note the limits include two trout and one togue daily, as well as a 16-inch minimum on whitefish. Start a new tradition with your whole family by cutting a hole in the ice and building a fire to keep warm while waiting for the first fish to bite. Be sure to bring a thermos loaded with hot chocolate, too.
Don’t picture penny candy and beer when you think of Katahdin General Store. Instead, think of all the things you may have forgotten to pack or that might enhance your winter weekend getaway at Baxter State Park. The store is an outdoor outfitter, featuring all the winter gear you could possibly need. You’ll also find lots of items branded with “Mount Katahdin” or “Baxter State Park” to bring home as mementoes of your stay.
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Not far from Baxter State Park lies Maine Dogsledding Adventures, and they’re waiting to take you on a half-day dogsledding excursion to make your getaway weekend complete. See the backwoods of Maine as you go “mushing” through the wilderness. You can even drive your own sled!
Visit Moose Prints Gallery to take in the amazing wildlife photography on exhibit. Visitors enjoys scenery from all four seasons, that features moose, deer, bear and more. Consider purchasing a piece to commemorate your trip to Baxter State Park.
Want to rent a snowmobile for your Baxter State Park weekend getaway? How about some snowshoes or cross country skis? You can do all this and more at New England Outdoor Center.
Make sure to stop at the Scootic In Restaurant en route to or from your weekend getaway at Baxter State Park. This is the place to enjoy the best food in the area. Serving both lunch and dinner, guests can choose from seafood, steak, burgers, salads and more. The daily specials are always worth considering.
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