Mt. Katahdin

Dogs No Dogs

Features Fall Colors · Views

This route is not for the faint of heart. Although the trail starts off mellow enough, it quickly becomes quite rocky with large steps. If the steepness wasn't enough for you, then the Knife Edge Trail will surely get your adrenaline going as you scramble along the narrow serpentine ridge to the summit.

From the parking area by Roaring Brook Campground take the Helon Taylor Trail. After only about a mile in, the trail begins to climb in earnest. If there is one thing to know about trails in the East it's that they all go straight up—none of that switchback nonsense of the west. As the trees thin, the trail gets rockier and steeper as you ascend the eastern ridge of Pamola. This section of trail can feel incredibly challenging if you're not an experienced hiker. Luckily, if you need an out, you can take the Dudley Trail back down instead of continuing on.

If it is onwards you track, be prepared as you are about to take on the iconic Knife Edge Trail. In a tenth of a mile, you'll reach probably the most challenging part of the route, though it is also the least exposed. This section, known as the Chimney requires a bit of fourth class scrambling down into a keyhole and back out again. Do not take this lightly, especially if the rock is damp. Once back up the other side, the Knife Edge lies before you. This narrow (at times only a couple of feet wide) "trail" snakes along the crest of the ridge with steep, precipitous drop-offs on either side. Some sections are rather scrambly, and others you can move along at a decent clip—but ALWAYS watch your footing. A slight stumble could send you off the edge.

Before you know it, you'll snake your way all the way to the summit of Mount Katahdin (aka Baxter Peak). On a clear day, the views are outrageous. If the wind isn't too bad, find a nice spot to enjoy a packed lunch.

From the summit, take the Saddle Trail down the northern flank. Enjoy the views all along the ridgeline until the trail makes a sharp turn east and begins heading into the bowl. This trail takes you down to Chimney Pond and Chimney Pond Campground. From here you'll take Chimney Pond Trail all the way back to the start. The trail levels out significantly initially following a small creek. It passes Basin Pond before joining up with Roaring Brook near the end of the hike.

Hopefully, you're camped at Roaring Brook Campground and can just stumble into your tent and rub your aching feet.