Information & Frequently Asked Questions

• AT Hostel & Outfitters is the closest dedicated hiker service to Baxter State Park & the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.

• Day use passes and campsites are LIMITED in Baxter State Park. We encourage you to make reservations within the park before heading this way to ensure you will be able to enjoy your visit. These reservations can sell out weeks in advance.

• All hikers wishing to climb Katahdin are required to have a day-use parking reservation or a campsite reservation to be shuttled to a Katahdin Trailhead. Using a shuttle service does not bypass the need for a reservation.

• If you are a northbound AT hiker please check out the AT hiker information page from Baxter State Park about getting your thru-hiking permit, thru-hikers camping in the park, and more. 

• The Hunt(AT), Abol, Helon Taylor, Cathedral, Saddle, and Hamlin Ridge trails that lead to the summit of Katahdin cover difficult terrain that many hikers are not prepared for. Depending on the chosen route, day hikes can take anywhere from 6 to 14+ hours. Sufficient supplies & planning is important. If you need help planning your hike or need other services feel free to reach out to us.

• Baxter State Park is not a typical “state” park, instead it is governed by the Baxter State Park Authority that has its own special regulations. Please visit the Baxter State Park website for all official information regarding your visit.

How far is Baxter State Park from AT Hostel & Outfitters?

It is 17 miles (30 minutes) from Millinocket to the BSP south gate and then it is another 8 miles (20 minutes) to Katahdin Stream campground. This shuttle is included in our SoBo Special.

What are the restrictions for Baxter State Park?

Baxter State Park does not allow pets, motorcycles, and oversized vehicles. Please see their website for more information. https://baxterstatepark.org/rules-and-permits/

The trail head I want to use at Baxter State Park is full - can you take me to Katahdin?

No. Baxter State Park requires a campsite reservation or a day-use parking reservation to access a Katahdin Trailhead and climb Katahdin. Please visit the Baxter State Park website for parking and camping information. Shuttle services can not bypass this requirement.

Someone I know is finishing the AT - How can I stay with them?

Make an overnight camping reservation at Katahdin Stream Campground to camp with them or make a day-use parking reservation, to drive yourself in to the park, and climb with them. Both of these can be done online or by phone at 207-723-5140 with Baxter State Park. If you want to stay with them at our Hostel, please make advanced plans and reservations.

Does AT Hostel & Outfitters pick up hikers after their summit?

Baxter State Park and the Katahdin trailheads are very busy places all summer long. Many hikers have no problem getting a ride out of the park from a friendly day hiker. 

We offer a daily shuttle in the afternoon from Katahdin Stream Ranger Station and Abol Campground to the Hostel. You must call to secure a spot on the shuttle in advance.

Can I climb Katahdin in May?

Most likely you will not be able to ascend Katahdin in the month of May. Baxter State Park normally opens for camping on May 15, but conditions on the mountain usually keep the trails up Katahdin closed for weeks after that. Recent years have seen the first trail up Katahdin open around Memorial Day. Please contact Baxter State Park for trail conditions: 207-723-5140.