Katahdin Summit
A strenuous all-day climb.
Katahdin and Baxter State Park
Maine's highest peak, the northern end of the Appalachian Trail, in a huge roadless wilderness.
Rising to 5,269 feet, Katahdin is sacred to the Penobscot. The Hunt Trail's end marks the finish line for northbound thru-hikers, and the Knife Edge is the most famous, and dangerous, section. Next door, the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument has rivers and big views.
- Best Time
- June–October
- Time Needed
- 2–3 days
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Check before you go; hours vary by season
- Getting There
- About 3 hours by car north of Portland, Maine.
What to See
3 of 3 are freeChimney Pond
A beautiful glacial cirque.
Katahdin Woods and Waters
A newer monument with a scenic loop road.
Know Before You Go
- Baxter has strict rules, and non-Maine residents should reserve parking long in advance.
Where to Stay
Stay in Millinocket.
Where to Eat
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Traveler Reviews
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Last checked 2026-11-02. Part of the Northeast list.