The fantastic world J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings, is one of pure fantasy. But there's something strangely familiar about the book's vividly described landscapes. From the beautiful verdant meadows of the Shire to the unforgiving granite landscape of Mordor, we feel as if we're reading about Baxter State Park - Maine's very own living, breathing version of Middle Earth. And it's just as enchanting as it sounds. So get ready to step into the beautiful and harsh reality of Maine's Baxter State Park.

Located in Millinocket, Baxter State Park and its 200,000 acres are the crown jewel of Maine's state park system. Out of all of the Maine state parks most consider this to be one of the best state parks in Maine. We would even go as far as saying this is one of the most beautiful places in Maine.

A gift to the people of Maine from Governor Percival P. Baxter, the park was created under the promise that it would remain "forever wild."

It's perhaps most famous for being the home to Mount Katahdin, the tallest mountain in Maine, as well as the northern terminus of the iconic Appalachian Trail.

It's easy to be inspired by this kind of beauty.

But it's also a place that can strike fear into the hearts of even the bravest souls.

Much like Tolkien's Mordor...

It's a harsh and unforgiving landscape. Especially the narrow trail across Katahdin's Knife Edge...

Where jagged granite cliffs falls thousands of feet on either side of you.

Once you've conquered Katahdin, you can move on to Baxter's gentler side: miles and miles of green wilderness reminiscent of The Shire. With its beautiful cascading falls...

And shimmering waterways...

And strange creatures...

And mossy forests...

And crooked paths to nowhere. It's hard to believe this is all real. But it is. And it's ours.

If you weren't a fan of The Lord of the Rings before, we hope you are now knowing that the kind of beauty and terror described in the book is real... and it exists right here in Maine. Let's write another chapter together - tell us your best Baxter State Park experiences!

After hiking to the summit, we can tell you from experience that Maine's Baxter State Park is no joke. So train before you go, and make sure you are prepared before you embark on your adventure. One of the ways I always ensure I am prepared is by taking my AllTrails app along. There are many trails to the top, so download your route and keep track of where you are as you hike.

Maine is filled with Lord of the Ring places: Have you ever been to Hobbit Land? You should check it out.