Mount Katahdin is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Baxter Peak, its highest summit, is Maine's highest point at 5,267 feet. "Katahdin" is an American Indian name meaning "greatest mountain". It is located on land given to the state of Maine by it's 49th governor, Percival R. Baxter. Governor Baxter once said;
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Katahdin stands above the surrounding plain unique in grandeur and glory. The works of men are short lived. Monuments decay, buildings crumble and wealth vanishes, but Katahdin in its massive grandeur will forever remain the mountain of the people of Maine. Throughout the ages it will stand as an inspiration to the men and women of the State. |
Ole Man first saw Katahdin in 2002 when he climbed to Baxter Peak with Two Step & Moonchild. He had started a thru-hike on March 26 and broke his ankle in the Great Smokey Mountains on April 6. That will be another story for another day! He drove to Maine and hiked into the100 Mile Wilderness to meet his friends and together they climbed Katahdin on August 9. He was pretty determined to hike that mountain!
I first heard of Katahdin when I met Rocky & Mike Bosse' in 1978. They both grew up in Millinocket. We were neighbors in MCAS Cherry Point, NC base housing and they have been my friends since then. I find it kind of interesting that I made that connection with Katahdin so long ago. I guess some things are just meant to be.
A question we are frequently asked is,“Why is it so hard to get in to Baxter State Park?” It really isn't all that hard. There is a reservation system in place that makes getting a reservation these days easier than in years past. Baxter State Park is a true wilderness park where the prime objective is maintaining the Park in its “natural wild state”; and that recreation in the Park comes second. Appreciating this truly beautiful wilderness is the first step to understanding why there are rules and regulations. These rules must be followed so that visitors can have a true wilderness experience and so that the Park will forever remain a place to find peace with yourself and with nature.
Do I need a reservation in the Park? Yes, you do. If you are hiking southbound we suggest that you get a reservation in Katahdin Stream campground the day that you climb the mountain. The hike that day is 5.2 miles up and 5.2 miles down. It usually takes as long to come down as it took you to get up. The average hike is 8-10 hours. If you are hiking north you can stay in the Birches if space is available without a reservation. If you know in advance what day you want to climb Katahdin it is advisable to make a reservation in Katahdin Stream campground for the night before your hike.
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