Top 10 Lakes in Baxter State Park
Best lakes in Baxter State Park are situated within a vast wilderness area in Maine, known for its rugged mountains, extensive forests, and diverse waterways. The park offers a unique immersion into the natural landscape, characterized by its numerous lakes and ponds. These bodies of water provide varied experiences, from scenic viewpoints of Mount Katahdin to opportunities for canoeing and hiking. The region's geography supports a range of aquatic ecosystems and serves as a habitat for local wildlife.
Best lakes in Baxter State Park
- The most popular lakes is Sandy Stream Pond, a lake that offers exceptional views of South Turner Mountain and Mount Katahdin. This location is known for wildlife viewing, particularly moose, and provides a short loop trail around the pond.
- Another must-see spot is South Branch Pond Trailhead & Campground, a facilities area with a lake. Visitors can expect a campground with tent sites, lean-tos, and cabins, along with canoe rentals and swimming opportunities, serving as a hub for exploring the northern part of Baxter.
- Visitors also love Rum Pond, a lightly trafficked and secluded lake. Its southern end provides reflective views of Mount Katahdin on the water, making it a peaceful escape from crowds.
- Baxter State Park is known for its scenic lakes, secluded ponds, and those offering recreational activities like canoeing and swimming. The park's diverse waterways provide a variety of experiences for exploration.
- The lakes in Baxter State Park are appreciated by the komoot community. The guide features 9 highlights, with 3 photos and 2 upvotes from visitors.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
Sandy Stream Pond
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South Branch Pond Trailhead & Campground
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Rum Pond
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Elbow Pond
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Upper Togue Pond
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Popular around Baxter State Park
Tips from the Community
This is a great campground with tent sites, lean-tos, and cabins available. You can rent canoes and swim out in South Branch Pond. There are a ton of different trails to explore, so this is a great hub from which to enjoy the northern portion of Baxter. You get great views of North Traveler across the pond.
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Rum Pond is a lightly trafficked freshwater pond in Baxter State Park and quite secluded feeling in comparison to some of the other more popular ponds and lakes; it is a great place to get away from some of the crowds in the summer months. At the southern end of Rum Pond you can get some neat photos of the reflection of Mt. Katahdin on the water.
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You get a fantastic view across Sandy Stream Pond to South Turner Mountain from here. There is another overlook a little ways further up the pond which grants epic views of Katahdin and its surrounding peaks. You can do a short loop around the pond, run up South Turner for some vert, or venture north along the flat, scenic Russell Ponds Trail which takes you all the way to the north end of the park.
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The area around Upper Togue Pond is a very quiet, peaceful part of the park. There are several easy, scenic trails through the woods that connect the many ponds around here. From this spot, you get great views south across Upper Togue Pond, which is open for ice fishing in the winter.
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Across Elbow Pond you get great views of Doubletop Mountain, the Brothers, and the Mountain Katahdin Massif (if you head all the way to the west end of the pond). The trails here are beautiful and easy.
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You get a fantastic view across Sandy Stream Pond to South Turner Mountain from here. There is another overlook a little ways further up the pond which grants epic views of Katahdin and its surrounding peaks. You can do a short loop around the pond, run up South Turner for some vert, or venture north along the flat, scenic Russell Ponds Trail which takes you all the way to the north end of the park.
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This is a great campground with tent sites, lean-tos, and cabins available. You can rent canoes and swim out in South Branch Pond. There are a ton of different trails to explore, so this is a great hub from which to enjoy the northern portion of Baxter. You get great views of North Traveler across the pond.
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This part of the park is relatively lightly trafficked, so you really feel like you are immersed in the wilderness as soon as you hit the woods. Rum Pond is beautiful and offers neat reflective views of Katahdin from the southern end. The Rum Pond Trail is not difficult, peaceful, and can be combined with the Cranberry Pond Trail or Abol Pond Trail for a longer run.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of views can I expect around the lakes in Baxter State Park?
Many lakes in Baxter State Park offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. For instance, Sandy Stream Pond provides exceptional views of South Turner Mountain and Mount Katahdin. From South Branch Pond, you can enjoy great views of North Traveler Mountain, while Elbow Pond offers vistas of Doubletop Mountain, the Brothers, and the Katahdin Massif.
Are there family-friendly lakes or trails in Baxter State Park?
Yes, several lakes and their surrounding trails are considered family-friendly. Sandy Stream Pond has a short loop trail suitable for families. The area around South Branch Pond is also family-friendly, offering camping and canoe rentals. Elbow Pond and Upper Togue Pond also feature easy, scenic trails.
What are some good lakes for wildlife viewing, especially moose?
Sandy Stream Pond is particularly renowned for opportunities to view wildlife, especially moose. Chimney Pond is also a frequent spot for wildlife sightings. The Grassy Pond Trail, accessible from Daicey Pond, is known for moose spotting.
Can I go swimming or kayaking in the lakes?
Yes, many lakes offer opportunities for swimming and paddling. South Branch Pond provides canoe rentals and swimming. Katahdin Lake also offers good swimming and fishing, with canoe rentals available. Daicey Pond allows visitors to rent canoes or kayaks. Togue Pond Beach, near the south entrance, is a popular spot for picnicking and swimming. However, swimming is not allowed in Chimney Pond.
Are there opportunities for camping near the lakes?
Yes, camping is available at several lake locations. South Branch Pond has a campground with tent sites, lean-tos, and cabins. Russell Pond is considered one of the park's most remote campgrounds, offering excellent fishing and access to Wassataquoik Stream and Wassataquoik Lake.
What are some easy hiking trails around the lakes?
There are several easy trails suitable for various skill levels. The short loop around Sandy Stream Pond is easy, and the flat, scenic Russell Ponds Trail extends further north. The Rum Pond Trail is not difficult and can be combined with other trails. Trails around Elbow Pond are described as beautiful and easy. The Katahdin Lake Trail is also very easy, and the area around Upper Togue Pond has several easy scenic trails.
Are there any secluded lakes to escape crowds?
Rum Pond is a lightly trafficked and secluded freshwater pond, offering a peaceful escape from crowds. Its quiet atmosphere makes it ideal for those seeking solitude.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Baxter State Park?
The best time to visit the lakes in Baxter State Park generally depends on your preferred activities. Summer offers ideal conditions for swimming, kayaking, and hiking. Fall brings stunning foliage. Winter allows for ice fishing on Togue Pond. Always check for seasonal closures as access can vary.
Are dogs allowed on trails around the lakes in Baxter State Park?
Baxter State Park has specific regulations regarding pets. Generally, dogs are not permitted on trails or in the backcountry to protect the park's wilderness character and wildlife. It's always best to check the official park regulations before your visit.
What outdoor activities can I do near the lakes in Baxter State Park?
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, you can explore various outdoor activities. There are numerous hiking opportunities, including challenging routes to Baxter Peak and easier trails around the ponds. You can also find cycling routes like the Park Tote Road or the Katahdin Loop Road. For more detailed information on routes, you can explore guides such as Waterfall hikes in Baxter State Park, Cycling in Baxter State Park, and Running Trails in Baxter State Park.
Are there any large lakes in Baxter State Park?
Yes, while many ponds are featured, the park also contains larger bodies of water. Grand Lake Matagamon, Webster Lake, and Nesowadnehunk Lake are noted as the three largest bodies of water within Baxter State Park.
What makes Upper Togue Pond a good destination?
Upper Togue Pond is known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere. It offers several easy scenic trails nearby, and from certain spots, you can get great views south across Togue Pond, which is open for ice fishing in the winter.
Most popular routes in Baxter State Park
Most popular attractions in Baxter State Park
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