I've backpacked in the park during the winter months at least a dozen times, always with a permit from the park officials, though I haven't always carried the required gear or had a fresh certificate from a doctor, mostly because often no rangers were around to check and often I joined winter trips at the last minute. I've long since lost count of all my Baxter excursions.
But, I've been on the Katahdin tableland a half dozen times and on the summit once in winter. I'm well aware of winter conditions in Baxter. And in the hundred mile wilderness. And winter conditions throughout the Maine hills. Winter for 30 years was my favorite time for backpacking.
I also have an instinctive dislike for petty bureaucrats and their petty rules. I could use stronger words, but I don't want to slide into a banned discussion.
As Rick points out, "freedom of the hills" remains something to cherish and to fight to preserve. Baxter is a wonderful place in all four seasons. The rangers are uniformly friendly and helpful. But I truly believe the park authority has made a travesty of Governor Baxter's dream.
The park allows far more motors than Baxter wanted, and imposes far more regulations than he ever dreamed his park would need. I haven't checked recently, but for years camping places for motorists increased, while back country camping opportunities diminished.
Weary