Our flagship program for youth cultivates and inspires the next generation of Maine's environmental leaders. Open to all Maine high school sophomores and juniors, the program’s highlight is a nine-day wilderness experience in Baxter State Park, backpacking from one end of the Park to the other. Current Maine high school sophomores and juniors are eligible to apply, and thanks to support from generous donors and members of Friends of Baxter State Park, there is no direct cost to the students.

Learn these seven leave no trace principles to make an enjoyable visit for all. You are the most important steward in the natural world.

Payton Spearin of East Millinocket, Maine grew up in the shadow of Katahdin and has always loved Baxter State Park. She has been part of our Baxter Youth Conservation Corps for the past five years, completing two years of trail work before the Covid-19 pandemic and the formation of the BYCC Conservation Fellowship. During Payton’s first two years of the fellowship, she studied Aquatic Entomology and Forestry. This year, she worked in a gallery following her passion for photography. This opportunity has provided Payton the ability to capture some excellent photographs doing what she loves and sharing them for others to enjoy.

Emma McGraw of Sherman, Maine has been part of our Baxter Youth Conservation Corps for the past four years. This exhibition is selected from Emma's work over the past two years studying photography as a BYCC Conservation Fellow. Emma also set out to achieve an ambitious personal goal: hiking every single mile of trail in Baxter State Park! She completed her goal in 2021 at the age of 18. This journey allowed Emma to capture some incredible photographs from every corner of the Park.

Baxter State Park is home to over 850 species of plants. 87% of these plants are native to Maine, whereas the rest are considered non-native or invasive. Invasive plant species can have several negative effects on native plant species and ecosystems as a whole. Here are a few that inhabit this beautiful Park.

Over 100 members and guests attended the 2022 Friends of Baxter State Park annual meeting held online on April 7. Three new directors were elected to the board, including former Park Director Jensen Bissel.

Baxter State Park announced that the Tote Road is now completely open from the North to South entrance as of Tuesday, June 14.

Over 100 members and guests attended the 2022 Friends of Baxter State Park annual meeting held online on April 7. Three new directors were elected to the board, including former Park Director Jensen Bissel.