Mount Katahdin is the highest mountain in Maine at 5,267 feet and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. It is located within Baxter State Park, a large wilderness area of more than 200,000 acres in northern Maine.
Mount Katahdin features five main peaks: Howe Peaks, Hamlin Peak, Baxter Peak (the summit), South Peak, and Pamola Peak.
There are numerous routes up Katahdin, all of which are considered strenuous—they require an elevation gain of around 4,000 feet and an average round-trip time of 8 – 12 hours. The Hunt Trail, which is also the final 5.2 miles of the Appalachian Trail, is one of the most popular routes on Katahdin for its spectacular scenery and extensive views.
When to Visit
Summer is the most popular time to visit Katahdin. The summer camping season runs from May 15 through October 15, with select areas remaining open until October 22. July and August are especially busy and advance reservations are highly recommended.
The winter season is open to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and mountaineering. Bunkhouses throughout the park allow visitors to do bunkhouse-to-bunkhouse trips. Park roads are not plowed in winter. Learn more about visiting in winter.
Fees, Permits and Rules
You must register at one of the two gatehouses when entering the park. Vehicles with out-of-state plates are required to pay an entrance fee.
In order to protect natural resources and wilderness, access to Katahdin is limited by the number of vehicles allowed at three roadside trailheads: Roaring Brook, Abol, and Katahdin Stream. You can reserve parking through the park’s reservation system. All other trailheads are first-come, first-served. Space is limited and fills up fast during summer months and most weekends. Learn more about reservations.
If you’re entering the Park to hike all or part of the Appalachian Trail, you must get an AT Hiker Permit Card. You can get a card in person at Park Headquarters or Katahdin Stream Campground. You must provide your full name, trail name, and emergency contact phone number to receive a card. There is no fee for the card. Learn more about the AT Hiker Permit Card.
The maximum size of a hiking group is 12 people.
Camping is permitted only at authorized campgrounds and campsites.
For more information see the Baxter State Park website.
Dog Info
Pets are not allowed inside Baxter State Park.