Most of the designated campsites and campgrounds in the Park are a considerable distance from the roadhead, with the exception of those in certain parts of the west and northern sections which may be approached by snowmobiles. The more isolated sites require several hours of foot travel under good conditions and more when the weather deteriorates. Because of possible deep snows, all visitors are required to have skis or snowshoes. And since there is always the chance of delay due to injury or weather, it is strongly suggested that all parties, both above and below timberline, carry lightweight two-person bivouac sacks for each two persons in the group.

If a party has more or gear than can be carried in a single move by its members, it probably has to much. In paring down one`s load, a good rule to follow is to carry nothing which will not be used - except of course, first aid kits and repair material.

Bunkhouses are provided with woodstoves for heating, but no provision is made for cooking and lighting. Firewood is available at most campgrounds; (check to verify before your trip, in the event that we were unable to haul wood to a particular site in any given year) campers will need to bring a saw or axe (per group) to work up firewood. Backpacking stoves with fuel in leakproof containers, plus cooking pots and pans, is the usual choice. The use of portable gas stoves for cooking purposes is only permitted during the winter camping season in bunkhouses and cabins. The use of candles is prohibited in cabins and bunkhouses unless the candles are totally enclosed in candle lanterns. Flashlights, candle lanterns, and headlamps can be used for light, but some veterans of long winter evenings in the bunkhouse opt for the one gasoline lantern, figuring the luxury of the brighter light is worth the extra weight and fuel.

A party of climbers is usually happy to have a file, tools for adjusting crampons, a few spare parts, and an extra pair of crampons, and a spare ice axe. Alpine skiers will also want to have spare parts on hand. A lightweight daypack for each pair of climbers or skiers may be worth the slight extra weight.

The bunkhouse do not have mattresses so sleeping pads will be needed. A water-resistant sleeping bag cover will also prove useful, both for added warmth and in the event that the bag has to be used outside. Campers staying in cabins at Daicy and Kidney Pond should be every bit as prepared for cold conditions as any other winter campers; these cabins are old and and though in good repair, they do not heat up thoroughly or retain heat in cold weather despite the use of woodstoves. Therefore, warm footwear and clothing for in camp use is a necessity.

Mandatory accessories include a topographic map of the park and a personal compass
NOTE: Because of ore deposits present, a compass is not always reliable on Mt. Katahdin). Suggested accessories include: Pocket knife, a chemical heat pack, a pocket hand warmer, and a small roll of electrician`s tape.
Some skiers and climbers have found that they can ease the load on the long trip in and out by hauling their packs on small plastic children`s toboggans or wood sleds on the road sections. However, bear in mind that crust or ice conditions may make such tows a nuisance.

While the above notes should prove useful in your planning, they are not meant to cover all aspects of your preparation. Each leader is responsible for seeing that their party is properly equipped, sufficiently skilled, and made fully aware of the Park rules. Ultimately, each individual is responsible for his or her actions and well being.