How to Climb Mount Katahdin
Maine's mile-high Mt. Katahdin is in the north-central section of the Pine Tree State. It is Maine's highest mountain and attracts thousands of climbers each year. Here's how to climb Mt. Katahdin.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
Planning Your Climb
-
1
Determine when you want to climb the mountain. Because of the mountain's altitude, the snow pack at Baxter Peak lasts well into spring and summer; snow begins to fall in mid-autumn. As a result, the mountain is only accessible for hiking during June, July, August, September and October. The summer months provide the best opportunities for climbing but are often busier. Though the weather may be a bit on the cool side, climbing during September and October can provide views of Maine's fall foliage.
-
2
After deciding when to hike, choose where to hike. Four trails (Saddle, Cathedral, Knife Edge and Hunt) lead to the summit at Baxter Peak. These trails connect via others to the four trail heads (Katahdin Stream, Abol, Roaring Brook and Chimney Pond) at the base. The climbs from base to peak range from about two miles (Chimney Pond to Baxter Peak) to about five miles (Katahdin Stream to Baxter Peak). Chimney Pond is the only trail head not accessible by vehicle using the park's tote road.
-
-
3
After deciding when and where to climb, the next step is making accommodations in the area. There are about a dozen campgrounds within the park with traditional camp sites, lean-tos and some cabins. But these campgrounds fill up fast, especially during peak season. Reservations are processed four months in advance by mail or on walk-in basis at Baxter State Park headquarters in Millinocket, about 25 miles south of the park and the nearest town and service center. There are also hotels, campgrounds and bed-and-breakfasts in Millinocket and the surrounding area.
-
4
Baxter State Park and Mt. Katahdin are about 35 miles off Interstate 95, the major north/south thoroughfare in the state. Take Exit 244 and proceed west on Route 157 toward Millinocket, about 10 miles away. Once in Millinocket, proceed north on the Lake Road into the park about 25 miles away.
The day of your climb
-
5
The Baxter State Park authority has strict rules governing mountain climbing. Day hikers must register at the gatehouse prior to climbing, while hikers staying within the park must register at the ranger's station at the campground.
-
6
All hikers going above the treeline or to the peak must leave their trailhead prior to the time mandated by the park authority. The times vary based on time of year and the distance of the trailhead from the peak. Hikers who don't leave by this time are not allowed to go above the treeline.
-
7
Hikers are encouraged to check the weather forecast for the day. Park rangers use a class system for weather conditions; a determination about a day's class is made each morning at 7. Class I means all trails are open and conditions favorable for climbing. Class II means all trails are open but climbing is not recommended amid changing weather conditions. Class III means climbing is not recommended and or or more trails are closed. Class IV means all trails are closed at the trail heads.For those departing before 7 a.m., climbing is permitted as long as the previous day was not classified IV.
-
8
Pack plenty of water and food for your climb. There is no drinking water available on the trails and, while there are streams and ponds, drinking the water from them is not recommended unless it is boiled.
-
9
Most trails leading to Baxter Peak are moderate to challenging, but the view from the top is worth the effort.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
If you are staying outside the park and planning a day hike, reach the park as early as possible. During peak times, the parking lots at most of the trailheads fill up fast and you may be sent to another trail head.
Purchase a detailed map of the park prior to hiking.
