Mt Katahdin Baxter State Park in Maine is a key location on the Appalachian Trail (AT).

Baxter State Park is home to Mount Katahdin, the northern terminus of the 2,190+ mile trail. Thru-hikers either begin or conclude their Appalachian Trail journey at Baxter Peak, the summit of Mount Katahdin.

My four kids and I along with extra friends spent a lot of time at Baxter State Park. Climbing Mt Katahdin is unforgettable and a yearly repeated hiking tradition. But lots of other mountains and smaller foot hills to hike and conquer as you collect the different trail experiences. Growing up less than a hour away means tapping into the natural beauty and majesty of Baxster State Park / Mt Katahdin was right in my backyard.

Have you seen the movie Lost On A Mountain In Maine?

80 miles, 9 days and lost on Mt Katahdin and wandering around the Baxter State Park and beyond. The movie, a true story based on the story that swept the nation back in the summer of 1939.

Donn Fendler, a 12 year old Boy Scout lost his hiking party and found himself alone, wet, cold, tired and deeply lost in the woods around Baxter State Park while climbing Mt Katahdin in Piscataquis County Maine.

Watch The Trailer For Lost On A Mountain In Maine!

Hear, see Donn Fendler himeself reflect on what happened and his experience that had a happy ending.

Share your experience with Mt Katahdin, the hiking personal tales you have at Baxter State Park.

hiking baxter state park
Hiking Baxter State Park. Which Trails Do You Use The Most And Pick To Hike?
Climbing Mt Katahdin In Baxter State Park With Your Kids. Priceless.
Climbing Mt Katahdin, Baxter State Park Trails With Your Kids. Like You Did With Your Parents. Priceless.
Table Land Above The Tree Line On Mt Katahdin, Baxter State Park.
Feel The Breeze, See The Moisture Clouds Floating By? The Tableland Of Mt Katahdin, Baxter State Park.
baxter park mt katahdin
Heading Up Mt Katahdin, Baxter State Park’s “Saddle”.

Lots of trails, which one to pick depends on the age, the size of your climbing party as you head to Baxter State Park.

baxter state park
Baxter State Park. No Burger King, No Mickey Dees. Just Wildlife. No Vehicles, No People, Just Four Seasons All Natural Scenery.

Where to begin?

Mountains in Baxter State Park:

Baxter State Park boasts over 40 mountain peaks and ridges within its boundaries. Notable mountains include:

  1. Mount Katahdin:
    • Comprises five main peaks:
      • Baxter Peak (the highest at 5,269 feet)
      • Hamlin Peak
      • Pamola Peak
      • South Peak
      • Chimney Peak
  2. Other Peaks:
    • Mount Coe
    • South Brother and North Brother
    • Fort Mountain
    • Doubletop Mountain
    • The Owl

These mountains surrounding the crown jewel Mt Katahdin in Baxter State Park are breath taking.

Each provides a mix of hiking challenges, from strenuous climbs to more moderate trails, and offer stunning views of Maine’s wilderness. The park is renowned for its rugged beauty and commitment to preserving its natural state, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts.

Starting a family hiking journey in Baxter State Park and working your way up to Mount Katahdin is an excellent plan! Here’s a guide to gradually build up experience and confidence, taking into account age, weather, and time constraints:


1. Start Small: Horse Mountain

  • Trail Overview: A short hike (about 2 miles round trip) with moderate elevation gain, suitable for young children and beginners. 1400′ high. Start with this one my advice from experience.
  • Highlights: Scenic views without being too strenuous. Perfect for getting the family used to trails and rewarding vistas. The entire family can hike. Little hikers don’t have to stay home.
  • Tips: Bring snacks and let kids take breaks. Make it about the journey, not just the destination. Bring friends too to follow the blue dotted dash trail markets up and down the trails.

2. Intermediate Hikes: Gradual Progression

For families with younger children or when weather or time is limited, Baxter State Park offers excellent “in-between” trails:

South Turner Mountain

  • Trail Overview: Moderate hike (about 4.5 miles round trip) with excellent views of Katahdin and wildlife spotting opportunities.
  • Best For: Kids with a bit more endurance. A great next step after Horse Mountain.

Blueberry Ledges

  • Trail Overview: A fun, easier trail with a round-trip of around 3.5 miles, offering waterfalls, forest views, and ledges to explore.Maine Blueberries, Wild Ones.
  • Best For: Kids who love variety and shorter distances.

Ledge Falls

  • Trail Overview: Not a hike, but a fun family spot where kids can enjoy sliding down the natural rock water slides.
  • Best For: Hot summer days when hiking might be too exhausting. Work your way up to longer trails, steeper Baxter State Park mountain options.

3. Advanced Preparation: Mount Katahdin

When your family is ready, tackling Katahdin is a monumental achievement. It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding. You might choose from these popular trails:

Saddle Trail (via Chimney Pond)

  • Trail Overview: The most family-friendly ascent to Katahdin’s summit, but still requires good preparation.
  • Distance: About 10 miles round trip.
  • Best For: Families with teens or older children who have experience hiking and can handle longer, more strenuous climbs.

Hunt Trail (Appalachian Trail)

  • Trail Overview: Classic but steep and exposed. Amazing views!
  • Distance: About 10.4 miles round trip.
  • Best For: Fit, experienced family members comfortable with rock scrambling.

Rainy/Time-Limited Days in Baxter State Park

  • Kid-Friendly Nature Trails: Explore interpretive trails like the Daicey Pond Loop (1 mile) or Sandy Stream Pond (0.5 miles) for wildlife watching.
  • Relaxing by the Water: Spend a day by Kidney Pond or Daicey Pond fishing, canoeing, or just soaking in the scenery.
  • Camping Adventures: Book a night at a family-friendly campsite, like those at Roaring Brook or Abol Campground.

Tips for Hiking with a Family:

  1. Plan Ahead: Check trail conditions, weather forecasts, and park guidelines.
  2. Pack Essentials: Water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, and layers.
  3. Set Realistic Goals: Know everyone’s limits and be prepared to turn back if needed.
  4. Celebrate Small Wins: Let kids enjoy smaller accomplishments as stepping stones to bigger challenges like Katahdin.

This approach allows your family to build hiking confidence and create lasting memories in one of Maine’s most beautiful natural areas!

maine mount katahdin photo
Maine’s Highest Mountain, MT Katahdin. Located In Forever Wild Baxter State Park. Snow Comes Early, Stays Late On This Almost Mile High Mountain Top.

Hope you plan to hike and bring your family to start the outdoor tradition trail, mountain climbing in Maine.

Enjoy the movie Lost On A Mountain in Maine with your family. I would love to hear questions and can share my experiences from many trips to Baxter State Park, Mt Katahdin growing up, with my own kids and now as grandchildren pop into the picture.

I’m Maine REALTOR Andrew Mooers, ME Broker

207.532.6573 |  info@mooersrealty.com  | 

MOOERS REALTY 69 North ST Houlton ME 04730 USA