Sheet 03 of 09
Mount Katahdin hike
The highest mountain in Maine and the northern end of the Appalachian Trail, and a serious day out.
- Height
- About 5,270 ft (1,600 m)
- Summit
- Baxter Peak
- Location
- Baxter State Park
- Known for
- Northern end of the Appalachian Trail
How difficult is Mount Katahdin to hike?
Difficult. Katahdin is not the tallest mountain in the country, but the trails are steep, rocky and exposed, with long sections above treeline where wind, cloud and cold can arrive suddenly. Most routes include boulder scrambling and a lot of climbing in a short distance.
Fit hikers with mountain experience can manage it in good weather. Anyone else should train first with long, steep day hikes.
Can a beginner climb Mount Katahdin?
Beginners should build up to it. A first-time hiker can reach the summit with fitness, a patient pace and good weather, but it is a poor choice for a first-ever hike. Start with shorter mountain climbs, learn how your body handles a full day, and treat Katahdin as a goal.
Be ready to turn around. Park staff set cut-off times for starting the climb, and those times get earlier as the days shorten.
How long does it take to hike Katahdin?
Plan on a full day. Most hikers allow somewhere between eight and twelve hours for the round trip, depending on the route, the weather and fitness. Start at first light, carry a headlamp and keep a clear turnaround time.
The Hunt Trail, which is the Appalachian Trail route, is the classic way up. Other trails reach the high plateau from the east and south, and loops combine several of them.
Mount Katahdin Knife Edge
The Knife Edge is a narrow ridge of bare granite that links Pamola Peak to Baxter Peak, with steep drops on both sides. It is exposed and committing, and it should only be attempted in dry, calm weather by people who are at ease with heights. High wind, wet rock or cloud can turn it from a thrilling walk into a hazard.
There is always a lower alternative. The ridge is optional, the summit is not worth a risk, and nobody gets a medal for finishing in bad conditions.
What is the best month to hike Katahdin?
Late summer and early autumn are usually the most settled for hikers, with the trails dry, the days still long and the bugs fading. Early season brings snow and mud on the upper mountain, and the park's day-use rules and trail openings change from year to year.
Check the park's official site for conditions, passes and cut-off times, and read the Baxter State Park guide before booking time off.