The websites and essential lists to know before you hike

Written By Michael Kellett

PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • May 25, 2026

There is a lot of advice online for where to hike, what to bring and how to maximize your time outdoors on the trails. Here is Carey Kish’s list of some sites to familiarize yourself with before hitting the trails, to ensure you hike safely, have a good time and respect nature. A few websites for Maine trails: mainetrailfinder.com, mainebyfoot.com.If you follow our couch-to-Katahdin guide to hiking, here are two sites to consult with information on Baxter State Park: Baxter State Park, baxterstatepark.org, Friends of Baxter State Park, friendsofbaxter.org. According to the National Park Service, here are 10 items they consider the essentials for safe hiking in case of minor injuries or changes in weather. The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics has advice on how to safely and ethically hike and explore the outdoors in a way that has minimal impact on nature.

Michael Kellett
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