Nature enthusiasts will fall in love with Baxter State Park in Maine. With over 215 miles of hiking trails and over 200,000 acres of wilderness to explore, this park reminds visitors how truly amazing our natural surroundings are. So if you love the rugged wilderness, and you love birding, Baxter State Park may be perfect for your next outdoor adventure.
Baxter State Park is a wonder to explore and behold. Its natural wilderness makes it some of the most rugged terrain in the Northeast. Percival P. Baxter made it his life's work to protect this magnificent land with over 200,000 acres of wilderness.
Located in Millinocket, which is in the north-central part of Maine, Baxter State Park offers outdoor enthusiasts and hikers a special opportunity to explore truly natural wilderness. With over 215 miles of trails, you will want to visit this park time and time again.
With its mountainous terrain, there are some fantastic yet challenging trails for more experienced hikers. Mount Katahdin is the highest peak in Maine at 5,269 feet. The strenuous hike to its summit will take most of the day, but offers incredible views. This is probably best reserved for more serious, experienced hikers, but something to perhaps aspire to if you are so inclined.
Not all the trails in Baxter State Park are rated difficult, so more casual hikers are in luck. The hike to Chimney Pond is rated moderate and generally takes about 3 hours. So come prepared with the proper gear, water, and snacks.
The scenery at this park is breathtaking. And wildlife can be spotted at all times of the year. Birders will love this park - over 170 species of birds have been spotted here.
If you're a hummingbird lover, you will want to visit the park in May, when the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird is usually migrating through Maine. Males have a distinctive iridescent red throat, so keep your eyes peeled for a flash of red and the characteristic buzzing sound as they fly on by.
