The crown jewel of Maine hiking — a demanding full-day adventure to the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail and Maine's highest peak.
Katahdin is Maine. Standing at 5,267 feet above sea level, the Knife Edge and Baxter Peak define what serious hiking looks like in the Northeast. The Hunt Trail — the AT approach — is the classic route, combining relentless climbing with one of the most celebrated summit experiences in the eastern US.
Trail Description
The Hunt Trail begins at Katahdin Stream Campground and wastes no time. It passes Katahdin Stream Falls at 1.1 miles before entering the treeless “tableland” — a vast alpine plateau dotted with cairns — and finally the exposed scramble to Baxter Peak.
Key landmarks:
- 1.1 mi — Katahdin Stream Falls (great rest spot)
- 2.8 mi — Treeline; views open dramatically
- 4.5 mi — Thoreau Spring
- 5.2 mi — Baxter Peak (5,267 ft), AT northern terminus
The Knife Edge Option
Descending via the Knife Edge to Chimney Pond and back via Saddle Trail makes for a 10.4-mile loop — unforgettable but not for those with a fear of heights. The Knife Edge is a narrow arête with 1,000-foot drops on both sides.
Permits & Planning
Baxter State Park requires advance reservations for day hikes on Katahdin. Reservations open in early February and sell out within hours. Katahdin is open for hiking from June through mid-October depending on conditions.
- Park entry is $15/vehicle (Maine residents free)
- No dogs on Katahdin
- Start by 7am for an 8+ hour round trip
- Summit can be in clouds when the base is clear — check the BSP weather forecast
Difficulty Note
This is a genuine all-day objective for fit hikers. The upper section involves 3rd-class scrambling over wet granite. Turn around if afternoon thunderstorms develop — the tableland offers zero shelter.