Hype for the Future 62MLM: Town of Millinocket, Maine

Introduction

The Town of Millinocket is located in the North Penobscot region of Penobscot County, Maine, in the United States of America. Often referred to as the “Gateway to Mount Katahdin” because of the relative proximity to Baxter State Park, the recreational infrastructure is actually over the western county line and into Piscataquis County, Maine.

Inner Attractions

Within the inner area of the Town of Millinocket, the signature attraction is the Moose Prints Gallery and Gift Shop, with numerous hotels, hostels, and other lodging options existing in the surrounding area—all southeast of Baxter State Park. The Gather Inn, the Appalachian Trail Hostel and Outfitters, the 100 Mile Wilderness Inn, Kamp Katahdin, Hotel Terrace, and Katahdin Inn and Suites are just a few of the potentially many attractions associated with the community in Millinocket. The inns on the northwestern side of town are often more basic, providing environments more reminiscent of the surroundings of Baxter State Park.

Hype for the Future 62K: Baxter State Park

Introduction

Baxter State Park, home to the highest point of the State of Maine at Mount Katahdin, is a tribute to the “magnificent obsession” by Percival P. Baxter of protecting a significant acreage of wilderness in the interior portion of the State.

About the Park

All roads leading into Baxter State Park are unpaved, narrow, and with size limits on vehicles. Vehicular parking is restricted to the three trailheads associated with Mount Katahdin, largely by way of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail. As with many of the magnificent state parks in Maine, the operating season ranges from around Memorial Day to around Indigenous Peoples’ Day as observed by the State.

Winter Closures

For early January 2026, Baxter State Park is closed to ATVs, snowmobiles, and all vehicular traffic, as part of a seasonal closure prior to the Memorial Day holiday.

Location

While Millinocket in northern Penobscot County is often deemed the “Gateway to Mount Katahdin,” the entirety of Baxter State Park is located further northwest into the northeastern portion of neighboring Piscataquis County. Millinocket, by the way, is home to the headquarters of specifically Baxter State Park.