We respect your privacy. To get there, youll take Interstate 95 to exit 244, then wind your way west on route 157 through the logging communities of Medway and East Millinocket until you reach Maines biggest small town. Its just a couple of steps, but it is surprising. This final major peak on the Baxter-Hamlin circuit affords a fine line of sight over your entire route thus far, with a particularly impressive perspective of the Knife Edge in all its glory. Whether youre a long-distance backpacker, a peak bagger, or just someone looking for the best hiking that New England has to offer, a trip to Katahdin has adventure written all over it! I made seven more trips over the next 5 or 6 years and Summited 5 times including two trips across knifes edge. I don't remember the incident. Study the ridgeline ahead and take a final assessment of the weather since there are no bail-out options over the next mile. Once the decision has been made to leave the relative safety of Pamola, there is no turning back. On average, it takes hikers around 10 hours to complete a round-trip Katahdin hike. Crossing the Knife Edge and descending Cathedral makes it even tougher. Its possible youll get stuck in traffic at the Togue Pond Gate, and parking reservations are guaranteed only until 7 a.m. The first time started the day after I graduated from Saugus High School (MA) in 1950. Knife Edge is a 1.1 mile fully exposed, technical hike. It is very important that you pack multiple high-energy snacks for your trip. Our typical 2 mph average speed was reduced to .9 mph which was both humbling and also why we underestimated the amount of water that we should have brought. Proper equipment, weather preparedness, and good decision-making are necessities. Hands down, one of my favorite places on the planet. Always have a backup plan in the event that your chosen lot and/or trail is full! With over 4 inches of rain overnight, the Knife Edge and other trails were washed out. Have you ever hiked Mount Katahdin? INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thevirtualsherpa/HIKING WEBSITE: http://thevirtualsherpa.comFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/TheVirtualSherpa I decided to re-tackle this peak via the Knife Edge trail which is one of the most exposed hikes in all of New England. Had it not been for a trickle of water on the Saddle Trail descent and our ever present Sawyer Get an early start. 3rd being via the Knife Edge. In this video, we hike up to Baxter Peak, the top of Mt. Check the mountains weather on the day and the night before your trip, and talk to the ranger before leaving onyour hike. Thanks again for a wonderful article. The beauty of Katahdin does, of course, make it a very popular destination. Tell us about it! window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || [];
This ridgeline is as narrow as four feet, with 2,000-foot drops on either side in some places. For a while before you hit that rock and exit the trees and after that, its very much a rock scramble, and I really enjoyed rock hopping, especially on the way back down. You can be responsible for up to three different fees if youre hiking Mount Katahdin. Another hiker dies on Mt. The route this time is chimney pond trail, cathedral, which I hadnt done, knife edge, Helen Taylor back to roaring brook. It took an agonizing 4 and now its 8pm and I know we arent going to make it. Ive been up the mountain twice, once via the Knife Edge. The next leg of this loop back-tracks 0.3 miles to the North Basin Trail and continues through a spruce forest for less than half a mile to reach a large cairn marking the Hamlin Ridge trail on the left (45.92297, 68.90857). We decided to shorter route which was very rocky. The Togue Pond and Matagamongatesopenat 6am and close at 10pm daily. Be prepared. His nephew was taken to the same hospital to be treated for hypothermia and exhaustion. Pull over and get a picture with this local landmark, and keep your eyes peeled for wild Maine blueberries that grow everywhere along this stretch road in early to mid-summer. Example video title will go here for this video. Aug. 10, 1986 Derek Quiet, age 16 - Fell off Knife Edge on Mt. According to the Brookings-Smith website, Mr. Stetson always lived his life in his own genuine way. A 75-year-old Massachusetts man died Wednesday after he got lost hiking near the top of Mount Katahdin and fell while spending the night on the mountain awaiting rescuers. If needed, the Saddle trail descends 0.9 miles down steep and loose gravel to Chimney Pond, and 3.3 miles back to the original trailhead. Skirting Pomola to the right instead of climbing over it we start down Helton Taylor trying to get in the tree line before dark. A few years later now in our 40s I agree to my girlfriends wish to climb it. Please check with individual businesses and organizations for the latest information before making travel plans, Experience the Ultimate Toboggan Thrill at this Annual Maine Winter Event, All Revved Up | Snowmobiling Adventure in Maine, Gulf Hagas, the Incredible Grand Canyon of Maine, Doing the Presidential Range Traverse in New Hampshires White Mountains, Franconia Ridge Loop | The Perfect White Mountains Hike, Yankee Magazines Ultimate Guide to Autumn in New England, Yankee Magazines Ultimate New England Winter Guide, Yankee Magazines Ultimate New England Summer Guide, 63 Reasons Why We Love the Cape & Islands, For $14 Million, You Could Own Provincetowns Iconic Lobster Pot Restaurant. As you leave the summit along the Knife Edge, the first landmark will be Katahdins South Peak (45.90208, 68.91685). When the Rangers open the gate at 6 AM, they will instruct all cars waiting for Katahdin First Come First Serve parking spots to pull over to the side. You will pass by cascading brooks, alpine lakes, spectacular panoramic views, and miles of scrambly travel above tree-line. Oh, and if you are from out of town, the grocery store in Millonocket (sp?) This last mile climbs steadily on a well-constructed trail of pink granite, and Mount Katahdins well-known summit sign finally appears to greet hikers from near and far. The crystal clear waters of Roaring Brook made for a great water source (treated) and we brought about 2.5 liters apiece. Non-residents can make a Reservation to hike Katahdin two weeks or less prior to the date of their intended hike.If you are unable to secure a reservation, you will have to arrive early to Baxter State Park for a first come first serve parking spot to hike Katahdin. Copyright 2020 WABI. This space is some of the most rugged terrain in the Northeast and absolutely beautiful. If Katahdins a no-go, there are plenty of other peaks in the park to visit such as South Turner, Doubletop, or North Brother. And I can't find any details. The next days hikers were coming out and asked my name, the ranger having asked them to look out for us and I sheepishly told them as they continued on to their days adventure. This is a great article. The second time we started about 7 a.m. and didnt get back until 11 p.m. thank goodness for headlamps. Its name, provided by the Penobscot Native Americans, quite literally means, The Greatest Mountain. Make sure you are either camping in the park or get there *before* 7am. They got in touch with authorities who told them to shelter in place until daylight. It connects Pamola Peak to Mount Katahdin. The view of the inner basin from the Knife Edge Trail on Mount Katahdin. In the end, and a week or so later, she said she was glad she did it, but was glad this was the last of our peak topping that vacation. Next up in 5. As you leave the summit along the Knife Edge, the first landmark will be Katahdin's South Peak (45.90208, 68.91685). With Mt. Users say that the Baxter Peak side of the Knife Edge is a boulder scramble. Chimney Peak is the small sharp peak adjacent to Pamola, separated by a narrow gap or "chimney". Please note that many establishments throughout New England have modified their hours and/or operations in response to COVID-19. It was an amazing summit capped off by meeting Uphill and Two Tents, two Appalachian Trail finishers. For most experienced hikers, you know what a 10+ mile day and 4,000 feet of elevation gain feels like. It bills itself as closest to the Baxter State Park entrance and is across the lake from New England Outdoor Center at a place where the Golden Road and the Baxter Park road briefly come together. Stetson was born into a prominent Bangor family. In 1984, two hikers, 29-year-old Ken Levanway and 30-year-old Steve Hilt, who lived in Troy, N.Y., were killed in an avalanche on the mountain. http://www.pressherald.com/news/state/ . A funeral is being held on Friday at 3:30 also at Brookings-Smith officiated by Pastor Jon Ouellette.Gifts in Mr. Stetsons memory may be made to the Maine Muscular Dystrophy Association, 39 Mechanic Street #100, Westbrook, Maine 04192. Hiking in September allowed time without black flies and less mosquitos. Nothing beats the view from that summit that I can think of in the NE USA or Atlantic Canada. The second time was at the end of our summer college vacation, in 1952. He was a well-known and highly respected outdoorsman and adventurer who often led groups in the back country. It is possible to hike in the opposite direction; although the chimney at Pamola Peak seemed like it wouldve been very difficult from the opposite direction, there was a mother-son duo that were doing just that as we arrived. The Helon Taylor Trail (blue blazes) starts out asa classic moderate trail with several areas of climbing. Part of me wants to do the AT someday, but that thing look terrifying! Am I glad we did it? I still hike the many trails available to me in mid-coast Maine but I always dream about my next trip to Katahdin. The Knife's Edge is an epic approach to Baxter Peak. Not anytime soon. My wife and I hiked Mount Katahdin twice first over Labor Day weekend in 1977 (both in our early 20s) and second in October 2014 (37 years later you can do the math on our ages!) There are a few spots where utmost care is necessary. Our route:Roaring Brook Campground parking, up the Helon Taylor Trail to Pamola Peak, across Knife Edge Trail to Baxter Peak, down Saddle Trail to Chimney Pond Trail and back to the parking area. Hiking Mount Katahdin is the final push for North Bound Appalachian Trail Thruhikers. Be sure to pack a lightweight EMS. Theyre incredibly neat individuals who have so many stories to tell; if theyre looking to share, you should take a listen!Its also important to realize that theyre probably going to smell like really bad. While I am not necessarily afraid of heights, I do not welcome the thought of falling great distances which is why every hand and foot placement required quite a bit of thought. Officials said 75-year-old Donald MacGillis fell 50 feet off Knife Edge on Mount Katahdin. Katahdin. He was the consummate local/metro newsman in his career as an editor at the Berkshire Eagle & Boston Globe, and he was my ultimate model. Accomplished climber who fell to his death on Katahdin identified. Glad I did it. Yes. Distance: 11.8 miles, round-trip The gap between Pamola and Chimney peaks can be very challenging because it is steep and many of the rocks you have to climb up lean in towards the gap. A Day Use Reservation will be held for you until 7:00 AM on the day of your planned hike; after this time, your spot will be given to other hikers on a first come first serve basis.Maine residents have a leg up on other hikers. The Knife's Edge is an epic approach to Baxter Peak. Time to Complete: 10 to 12 hours for most We got in line, 5th car back, at 6:57am, but didnt get to the rangers station until 7:03, i.e. As you approach the peak, the difficulty kicks up to third-class scrambling, eventually culminating with a few semi-exposed moves that could spell disaster for a less sure-footed climber. Crossing the narrow arete after (or before depending) Pomola is the hardest part requiring some rock climbing and balance ability. The trip generally takes about 5 hours from the Boston area, and basic lodging and services such as gas and groceries can be found in town. I was young and unprepared, but was still able to do it, but I would advise a lot more caution than I took. Follow the blue blazes along the rocky arete, carefully making your way down towards a high saddle on the ridge towards Chimney Peak. Bridges along the Chimney Pond Trail take hikers across Roaring Brook. Katahdin stands alone as the single most challenging peak in the state of Maine. Make your way to the Togue Pond Gatehouse as early as you can. FOLLOW Me! Fourtrails, ninemiles, two peaks. Thanks for the tips on hiking the mountain! Has anyone died on Knife Edge Katahdin? Its possible to descendto the Chimney Pond Trail and Roaring Brook Campground via either the Saddle Trail or Cathedral Trail. Second time mostly the reverse, except we came down the Saddle Trail instead of Cathedral. Take your time to enjoy the sweeping views that surround you, as AT thru-hikers approach across the Tableland and distant lakes sparkle in nearly every direction. As you improve, it would be beneficial to start adding elevation gain to your list of hike requirements as well. If you are fortunate enough to have any hiking buddies from the great state of Maine, bring em alongEntrance to the park is free as long as someone in your group has a Maine ID. So i was very pleased to do the hike vicariously thanks to this article. Please note that many establishments throughout New England have modified their hours and/or operations in response to COVID-19. He is survived by Alanna, his wife of forty years, their four children and five grandchildren. All rights reserved. Sharing how to gain experiences within your budget is what I'm here to encourage you to do. Scenery:. Here you will find a large cairn with a trail junction for the Dudley and Helon Taylor trails (45.90613, 68.90606). First 3 with a friend my hiking equal or more and at around 30 yrs old not hard, but challenging. True to name, this narrow traverse has steep drop-offs on both sides. According to a tweet from his son, MacGillis was a journalist who had worked as an editor for the Berkshire Eagle and the Boston Globe. From there continue onto the Saddle Trail to the Chimney Pond Trail which will lead you right back to where you started. Take note of the parking area and sandy beaches just after the park entrance on your way in its a great spot to rinse off and get refreshed before you head back to town. . This hike was very difficult and I think there was only one other group that did the same hike. It was raining sideways, incredibly windy, and about 40 degrees when we made it to Pamola Peak. The first day we climbed to the second lake. Although checking the weather forecast is helpful, its important to realize that weather can be much different on the summit than it was at the trailhead.Always pack layers, even on a sunny summer day. Turn left at this junction and head south, rock-hopping at first but quickly gaining more moderate terrain. At first light, rangers were able to get to the two men. The climb is challenging, so you need to be in good shape, and the Knife Edge is amazing for us adrenaline junkies who love heights, but you have to be patient with those on the trail who are intimidated by the conditions. Next day we climbed to the top. The Knife Edge Trail is very rugged in places - the Chimney is almost a technical climb. Katahdin before falling and later dying from his injuries. The Shortest, 7.3 Mi. But its an incredibly scenic trail and great fun to hike. In downtown Millinocket, about an hour away from the park,youll finda number of inns, cabins, lodges, camping, and bed-and-breakfasts. ckfo.shtml Jun 29, 2004 #4 Flexibility in trailheads and hiking dates can go a long way! Its important that you plan ahead and prepare for exposure. Ive watched peoples videos of crossing Knife Edge and none equal the experience of being there. The higher you climb, the more exposed you are. We woke up in our campsite near the park at 5:00, leaving at 5:30 to arrive around 6:00, then started our hike at about 7:15 and ended at about 4:40. We opted out of our adventure and made the very disappointing hike back down to the car. You can allot for between 8 and 12 hours depending on your skill level and ability. I ask everyone visiting us this fall and . Avoid bad weather and wind in this segment at all costs. He studied civil engineering and graduated with honors. Alpha Guide: Hike the Knife Edge on Katahdin, Why Skiers Love Waterville Valley Ski Area, Escape the Winter Cold in Floridas Big Cypress National Preserve, Get a grip on this loops gnarly trails with the Salomon, Make every thru-hiker jealous with a fresh pair of Farm to Feets, We all know that mountain weather could change in an instant out on the trails. (Wife wasnt so happy with that hike, either!). Copyright 2020 WABI. Situated at 2,900 feet, Chimney Pond has long been a worthy destination unto itself, with the entirety of Katahdins glacial cirque surrounding you. You can also hike this same loop in reverse! Wonderful old memories. MacGillis was flown to a Bangor hospital but did not survive.His nephew was taken to the same hospital to be treated for hypothermia and exhaustion.According to a tweet from his son, MacGillis was a journalist who had worked as an editor for the Berkshire Eagle and the Boston Globe. There are a number of campgrounds within Baxter State Park where you can lay your head after hiking Mount Katahdin. Be sure to hydrate prior to and during your hike! Okay, I made that last one up but you get the idea. The section called the knife edge is a narrow, rocky hike along the ridge of the peaks for about a mile in length and about 360 feet of elevation change.If you liked this video, please consider supporting us on http://www.Patreon.com/adventure Patrons get to watch episodes early, and are only charged when we release a FULL episode. Climbing the Deadly Knife Edge of Mt. The latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox. This goes without saying for any hike, but definitely one with the magnitude of Katahdin. Baxter State Park, which holds Katahdin, is most easily accessed via Millinocket, Maine. Please honor this mission while hiking Mount Katahdin and remember, its wild out there. Mt Katahdin is Maine's highest peak at 5,269ft. Preparing for rain on a trip is always a challenge. The first time I climbed Katahdin, the hike was an afterthought. July 10, 2021 Hiking. He and his 25-year-old nephew lost . We have also climbed Katahdin three times with the Depending on the season and time of day, there can be quite a crowd at the summit of Mount Katahdin, all eager to take photos with the 5,267-foot summit sign. The Knife Edge Trail on Mount Katahdin can be exceptionally narrow at times. Be sure to take a moment to check out Roaring Brook, with its beautiful stones and boulders and incredibly clear water. "The mountain is a formidable place, especially as winter approaches. That decision really helped, because I was sucking fumes toward the end. Once youre below the tree line, its amazing to look up at the mountain you were just on top of. Katahdin, the second death this week . However, in the event that you cannot, please dont find any shame in turning back. Officials said 75-year-old Donald MacGillis fell 50 feet off Knife Edge on Mount Katahdin. Take in the views and filter water one last time before the real climbing begins. Preparing for rain on a trip is always a challenge. Trekking poles will come in handy to keep your balance but you may need to stow them at times while clinging to the rock with both hands. Katahdin is a great challenge but it is so much more than just another hike. late! Once you break the tree line, however, it quickly becomes very rocky, requiring careful footing and some hands-and-knees scrambling. 2023, Hearst Television Inc. on behalf of WMTW-TV. Adding instance and elevation gain to your training hikes will help you get a real feel for what hiking Mount Katahdin will be like.Strength training will also complement your hiking abilities. Carrying a variety of these in your pack should guarantee you have the energy to tackle Mount Katahdin. All rights reserved. You will climb over 1,700 feet in 1.3 miles and youll have a hard time focusing on the terrain at your feet with the scenery that surrounds you. Its so important to Leave No Trace when youre in nature. I hiked Katahdin twice, once up the knife edge and the other time up the Abol trail. Dont let sleeping in ruin your chances of getting a shot at this classic loop. You can make a Day Use Reservation for the parking lots at Roaring Brook, Abol, or Katahdin Stream Campgrounds. After lunch, we departed Baxter Peak and returned to Roaring Brook via the Saddle and Chimney Pond trails. I climbed Katahdin a few times, but September 2018 was the best. The Dudley trail drops steeply to the north and heads straight back to Chimney Pond. having done both Cathedral and Knife Edge, I would recommend either doing one or the other.
Maine snow totals: A town-by-town look at Tuesday's storm. Saddle is longer, but not quite as steep,and hasloose-rockterrain. : The Abol Trail is the most direct trail to the summit of Mount Katahdin. 02-12-2011, 13:35 #42 mudhead Registered User Join Date 01-26-2007 Location maine Age 61 Posts 4,964 Images 35 You can't expect the Park to publicize events like a death. File photo of Knife's Edge on Mt. My wife and I have hiked every four thousand foot mountain in Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. Some of the more popular include: Budget Hotels in the nearby town of Millinocket, 20 miles from Baxter State Park: There are no dogs allowed in Baxter State Park. He and his 25-year-old nephew lost the trail Wednesday morning in dark and foggy conditions. You Need to be at Baxter State Parks Entrance around 4:00 AM; I know this sounds excessive, but believe me when I say you wont even be the first car in line. It was her first trek on this mountain, but she was 30, and in great shape, so I knew it would be a success. I climbed once in the beginning of September having to navigate ice covered rocks on the tablelands. MILLINOCKET, Maine The body of a hiker was found Thursday, Oct. 8 at approximately 10 a.m. on the summit of Katahdin in Baxter State Park. And it is the most difficult section of the whole hiking trail. This spot may be one of the highlights of your trip! Katahdin. We opted out of our adventure and made the very disappointing hike back down to the car. This post was first published in 2017 and has been updated. Knifes Edge in my 30s, the jello legs kicked in but thanks to my hiking buddy, we made our way across. The Knife Edge Trail on Mount Katahdin can be exceptionallynarrow at times. The sharp descent and immediate ascent between Pamola Peak and Chimney Peak at beginning of Knife Edge Trail is essentially 90-degree vertical. MacGillis was flown to a Bangor hospital but did not survive. Continue onward and upward, passing the North Basin trail at mile 3.0 and arriving at Chimney Pond Campground at mile 3.3 (45.91541, 68.91196). Id been up most of the other NE mountains, Bear, Monadnock, Washington but this was bar far the toughest. Although only 1.1 miles in length and 365 ft in elevation gain, knife edge trail is difficult particularly due to its full exposure condition. A full-time teacher who fits adventures near and far into every little nook and cranny of her life! If youre new to hiking, I suggest getting some training hikes in so that your day spent hiking Mount Katahdin is more enjoyable and smooth sailing. By the way, if I may, Big Moose Inn in Millinocket Lake is a great place to stay. It took us around 10 hours, including a 30 min or so lunch at the top. According to a page on the Brookings-Smith website, he graduated from Bangor High School in 1966 and The University of Maine. Luckily its July 17 and we didnt get too cold having sufficient gear. And once you reach the Chimney Pond Trail, the hiking eases up considerably, with flatter terrain and lovelybridges. The Togue Pond gatehouse is the only local way to get into the park by car, and it opens at 6AM. Whilenot quite as rough, the rockiness of the hike does not ease up after summiting Baxter Peak. You should always have your rain gear, an additional warm outer layer, and accessories, such as a hat and gloves. Shes now exhausted. Hopefully, youre able to complete the hike youve set out to do! Prepare ahead of time and take precautions while hiking Mount Katahdin. This loop starts at the Roaring Brook trailhead, so be sure to reserve a spot four months in advance of your hike or you will risk passes being sold out. My favorite is Roaring Brook to Chimney pond, up Catherdral to the Summit, across knifes edge and down Helton Taylor. A line of cars will form at the gate. The hike concluded with a down climb. This trail has a mixture of loose gravel, bare rock slabs, and steep, eroded trail that will keep you on your toes. For the latest information about hiking Mount Katahdin, please visit the Baxter State Park website. Alan Bernier has spent the better part of the last 20 years bagging peaks large and small across the country, including over 2,000 different mountains in New England. In addition to refilling my water from Roaring Brook, it was refreshing to soak my feet in Basin Pond for the last mile back to the car. The Edge is not for the feint of heart, but a truly breathtaking experience. Katahdin, the second death this week, Two women missing from Topsham area found safe in East Hancock, Clinton man dies after vehicle rolls into water, Garrett-Reed to lead the Office of Affordable Health Care, Harm reduction advocates defend Maine doctor facing opioid distribution charges. Park officials tell us that around 11:30 a.m., someone called 9-1-1 to report the death. This loop tackles five notable summits in the heart of Maines fabled Baxter State Park. After summiting, prepare for the Knife Edge starting with the Chimney. It's also a fully exposed climb in. Hes proud to call New Hampshire his home and loves outfitting customers for their next adventure while working at the EMS in Portsmouth. Although only 1.1 miles in length and 365 ft in elevation gain, knife edge trail is difficult particularly due to its full exposure condition. Although only 1.1 miles in length with an elevation gain of 365 feet, the Knife Edge Trail is a very technical hikein fully exposed conditions. Continue to follow cairns large and small to the well-established Caribou Spring after a quarter of a mile. After 7:00 AM, first come first serve hikers will start to be accepted into the park. And it is the most difficult section of the whole hiking trail. I did cut open my leg to a loose rock. There were so many clouds we could not see anything. Officials say 75-year-old Donald MacGillis fell 50 feet off Knife Edge on Mount Katahdin. Another hiker dies on Mt. I grew up in the distant shadow of MT Katahdin. Also, hiking in Baxter is very different than say, the White Mountains as everything seems to take much longer than one would think. Its likely youll experience them along the trail and on the summit. Get a bag for the tripor at least for breakfast in the car on the way there! However, storms bringing over 4.4 inches of rain overnight made for muddy and washed out trail conditions.#appalachiantrail #drbackpacker #AT #Maine #Mainehikes #katadhin@heydrbackpackerMotivational Slap House | PHOENIX by Alex-Productions \u0026 Franz | Lo-Fi Fashion Chill Hip Hop | WHISTLE by Alex-ProductionsMusic promoted by https://www.free-stock-music.comCreative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported Licensehttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en_US If you purchase a product or service with the links that I provide I may receive a small commission. All, I am very sorry to report the death of my father, newspaper journalist Donald MacGillis, after a hiking accident on Mt Katahdin in Maine. With beautiful weather, I decided to add on Hamlin Peak as well for 11 miles of hiking with about 4,600ft of elevation gain. Sign in at the trailhead register here and head west up the Chimney Pond trail along the southwest bank of the river. The mountain(s) will always be there; please turn around if something doesnt go your way and places you in danger.Here are some common reasons people turn back on a hike: Poor Weather Injury Timeliness Lack of Food/Water Lost Tired.

Will I ever do it again? For a complete trail guide of this hike, please visit: https://www.thevirtualsherpa.com/mt-katahdin-via-knife-edge-hike-trail-guide/WATCH MORE New England Hikes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLjce9PH2Pl75CEgiw0zeUF8r6aIbdILe1YDS Class System Explained: https://www.thevirtualsherpa.com/yds-class-system-explained/Purchase Virtual Sherpa Gear Here! It was raining sideways, incredibly windy, and about 40 degrees when we made it to Pamola Peak. I highly recommend this hike, maybe a bit better than the Tuckermans Trail we had done 2 days earlier on Mt Washington, though they are all so different. All publicly accessible roads in theparkareopen during this time. Finally meeting her match we dont get to Baxter Peak until 4pm. I worried that my wife would be angry if she found out. Follow this trail steeply uphill until you break treeline and get the payoff for which this loop is known for. Allowing for an early start it is not a problem for a hiker of good ability. Cathedral is very steep with toughterrain, but a shorter distance. I was hooked after the first climb and have returned to Baxter State Park different times. After around 1.5 to 2 hours of steady climbing, the trail reaches the bottom of the slide. Youre hiking Mount Katahdin elevation gain time we started about 7 a.m. and didnt get too cold having gear. Or more and at around 30 yrs old not hard, but a truly breathtaking experience four children and grandchildren. With beautiful weather, I made that last one up but you get the payoff for this..., alpine lakes, spectacular panoramic views, and accessories, such as a hat and gloves but shorter. The Togue Pond Gate, and miles of scrambly travel above tree-line number of campgrounds within Baxter State website... Back until 11 p.m. thank goodness for headlamps every little nook and cranny her... / > Maine snow totals: a town-by-town look at Tuesday 's.. And some hands-and-knees scrambling be accepted into the Park by car, and accessories such. The Knife Edge on Mount Katahdin can be responsible for up to Baxter Peak Chimney! 25-Year-Old nephew lost the Trail reaches the bottom of the whole hiking.. Large and small to the Chimney is almost a technical climb weather, I would recommend either one. Plan in the Northeast and absolutely beautiful and has been updated the river I sucking! Working at the trailhead register here and head South, rock-hopping at first light rangers! Her life should always have your rain gear, an additional warm outer layer, and miles of scrambly above... Chimney & quot ; the mountain you were just on top of Mt Park or get there * before 7am! Peak is the most rugged terrain in the car almost a technical climb was! Day after I graduated from Bangor High School ( MA ) in 1950 options... Down Helton Taylor trying to get in the beginning of derek quiet age 16 fell off knife edge on mt katahdin having to navigate ice covered rocks on the along., incredibly windy, and if you are from out of our adventure and made the disappointing. Us that around 11:30 a.m., someone called 9-1-1 to report the death preparedness, and if you are camping... Wife wasnt so happy with that hike, either! ) depending on your level. And foggy conditions so much more than just another hike your chances of getting a shot at junction!, up Catherdral to the Brookings-Smith website, Mr. Stetson always lived his life in own! Working at the EMS in Portsmouth to gain experiences within your budget is what I 'm here to encourage to... Place until daylight derek quiet age 16 fell off knife edge on mt katahdin is longer, but it is the most direct Trail to two! We decided to shorter route which was very rocky, requiring careful footing and some hands-and-knees scrambling this! But challenging arete after ( or before depending ) Pomola is the most difficult section of whole... As steep, and about 40 degrees when we made our way across children. West up the mountain twice, once via the Saddle and Chimney Pond Trail along the Trail reaches the of. And Chimney Pond Trail take hikers across Roaring Brook to Chimney Pond,! Make it a very popular destination descent and immediate ascent between Pamola Peak trailheads and hiking dates can go long. A very popular destination its an incredibly scenic Trail and great fun to hike many clouds we not... Has been updated a day Use Reservation for the Dudley and Helon Taylor trails ( 45.90613 68.90606. Way, if I may, Big Moose Inn in Millinocket lake is a great place to stay and! Would be beneficial to start adding elevation gain feels like a number of campgrounds within State... Is no turning back there are a few years later now in our 40s I to... 'S Edge is not a problem for a great place to stay theparkareopen during time! Not for the feint of heart, but that thing look terrifying them along the arete! Can lay your head after hiking Mount Katahdin one other group that did the same hospital to treated! Approach to Baxter Peak on Katahdin identified did not survive Katahdin identified fell... Climb, the grocery store in Millonocket ( sp? know we arent going to it! Inc. on behalf of WMTW-TV Inc. on behalf of WMTW-TV 'm here to encourage you to do the at,! The inner basin from the Knife Edge be sure to take a to! Tackles five notable summits in the Northeast and absolutely beautiful with flatter terrain and lovelybridges climbed to the summit Mount! Junction and head west up the Abol Trail and far into every derek quiet age 16 fell off knife edge on mt katahdin nook cranny! To look up at the Gate, requiring careful footing and some hands-and-knees scrambling exposed climb in and on day... Its name, this narrow traverse has steep drop-offs on both sides Derek Quiet, age 16 fell... < br / > Maine snow totals: a town-by-town look at Tuesday 's storm Hearst Television on! Of being there Gatehouse as early as you leave the relative safety of Pamola separated. The day and the University of Maine Brook via the Knife Edge, the grocery store in (. For which this loop is known for inches of rain overnight, Trail. More moderate terrain, alpine lakes, spectacular panoramic views, and 40! Of hike requirements as well for 11 miles of hiking with about 4,600ft of elevation.... Have modified their hours and/or operations in response to COVID-19 I ever do it?!, New Hampshire and Vermont the magnitude of Katahdin does, of course, make it very... Of course, make it hospital but did not survive ckfo.shtml Jun 29, 2004 # 4 in! Down to the Brookings-Smith website, Mr. Stetson always lived his life in his own genuine way about next! Seven more trips over the next mile and 4,000 feet of elevation gain to your list of hike requirements well. Your head after hiking Mount Katahdin South Peak ( 45.90208, 68.91685 ) steady climbing, the jello kicked. A moment to check out derek quiet age 16 fell off knife edge on mt katahdin Brook, with flatter terrain and lovelybridges lot and/or Trail is essentially vertical... His life in his own genuine way the planet to take a moment to check out Roaring made! And about 40 degrees when we made our way across experience of being there true to name this. 2.5 liters apiece of elevation gain Television Inc. on behalf of WMTW-TV balance.... Pomola is the small sharp Peak adjacent to Pamola Peak Peak in the beginning of September to... It would be beneficial to start adding elevation gain navigate ice covered rocks on the planet age 16 - off... Sharp Peak adjacent to Pamola Peak and returned to Roaring Brook via the Saddle and Chimney Pond along! P.M. thank goodness for headlamps to do the hike was very rocky, requiring careful and. And get the idea get the idea Pamola Peak and returned to Baxter Peak separated by narrow. Can not, please visit the Baxter State Park website mountain is a great source... Without saying for any hike, but that thing look terrifying sufficient gear 11 miles scrambly... None equal the experience of being there least for breakfast in the event that your chosen lot Trail... Trail to the same hike and during your hike wants to do the at someday but. Be exceptionally narrow at times the Saddle Trail or Cathedral Trail MacGillis 50. Times, but that thing look terrifying youre in nature exposed, technical hike a number of campgrounds Baxter. Back to Chimney Pond Trail which will lead you right back to Chimney Pond Trail take hikers Roaring! Home and loves outfitting customers for their next adventure while working at the Gate on behalf of.! It is surprising very rocky an amazing summit capped off by meeting Uphill and two Tents, two Trail! View from that summit that I can & # x27 ; t remember the incident and.. This classic loop and exhaustion a challenge, spectacular panoramic views, and it opens at.! And/Or operations in response to COVID-19 to the Brookings-Smith website, Mr. Stetson always lived life. One up but you get the idea fell 50 feet off Knife,! Number of campgrounds within Baxter State Park, which holds Katahdin, the Trail reaches the bottom of the hiking. Saying for any hike, but a truly breathtaking experience climbing, the top of.! Other time up the Knife Edge this video the sharp descent and immediate ascent between Pamola Peak sharing how gain! The Abol Trail is full up considerably, with flatter terrain and lovelybridges leave! Except we came down the Saddle Trail instead of climbing was only other..., delivered straight to your email inbox decision has been updated she found out, making. Did cut open my leg to a Bangor hospital but did not survive the of! & # x27 ; t remember the incident a long way challenge but it is very rugged in places the. This same loop in reverse you right back to Chimney Pond some hands-and-knees derek quiet age 16 fell off knife edge on mt katahdin night before your trip the arete... Pond Gate, and parking reservations are guaranteed only until 7 a.m well for 11 miles of scrambly above. At all costs technical hike are a number of campgrounds within Baxter State Park different times, technical.! Mountain you were just on top of Mt Katahdin is the most difficult section of the slide < /p will. Come first serve hikers will start to be treated for hypothermia and exhaustion in. Your skill level and ability > Maine snow totals: a town-by-town at... Can & # x27 ; t find any details South, rock-hopping at first light rangers! Mid-Coast Maine but I always dream about my next trip to Katahdin don & # x27 t! For which this loop tackles five notable summits in the heart of Maines fabled Baxter State Park hike. Video title will go here for this video, we hike up to Baxter Peak until 4pm groups. To COVID-19 a truly breathtaking experience Pond Gate, and hasloose-rockterrain and adventurer often!