Baxter Peak via Saddle Trail

Hiking Katahdin is extremely rewarding and worthwhile. Not only are you welcomed with an incredible view at the summit, but if you hike it later in the year you can have the chance to talk with those finishing their 2,000 mile journey on the Appalachian Trail. There are many routes up this mountain, but one of the easier ones is following the Chimney Pond and Saddle Trails. Park at the Roarin...

Start the hike at Roaring Brook Campground and follow the Chimney Pond Trail for 3.3 miles one-way (Elevation gain 1,425 ft). Upon reaching the Chimney Pond Campground, we re-watered and started up Dudley Trail for a short, but steep 1.3 miles one-way (Elevation gain to Pamola Peak 1,988 ft). No water is available on this trail, and it is above the treeline. After breaking for lunch on top of...

Day #1 This Backpacking trip starts at the Roaring Brook campground on the east side of Baxter SP. Immediately after entering the park through the Togue Gate, take the first right towards Roaring Brook CG. Register with the Ranger there and begin your hike to Russell Pond on the Russell Pond Trail. Elevation change is minimal as you hike through beautiful forests, passing multiple ponds for 7....

The trailhead starts from the Abol Campground inside of Baxter State Park. I would highly recommend staying the night before so that you can get an early start on the hike as it can be an all-day affair.   For the first 1.4 miles, you meander along a stream bed through a densely wooded forest, the trail is very well marked with blazes. You will encounter a labeled scenic viewpoint area that's ...

This hike is located in Baxter. Maine residents gain free admission into the park; non-residents must purchase a day pass ($14 per vehicle) or season pass ($39 per vehicle). After entering the park at Togue Pond Gate of Baxter State Park, bear right and continue onto the Roaring Brook Road for 6.3 miles to the Avalanche Parking Area on the left. The trailhead for Katahdin Lake Trail is across t...

Let me start off by saying, this is not an easy hike by any means. Only attempt this if you are an experienced hiker. The route has over 5,000 ft elevation gain in a little over 5 miles. You start off your hike in the Katahdin Stream Campground parking area, following the white Appalachian Trail blazes for the entire hike. If you are hiking this trail in the summer or on a weekend I would sugg...