Hiking Mount Katahdin - Knife Edge Trail, Hunt Trail & Abol Trail

Hiking Mount Katahdin is simply an incredible experience. As you approach Baxter State Park, you see off in the distance the rocky and steep slopes of the highest peaks in all of Maine. Most who come have read about, seen pictures or watched videos of hikers along the Knife’s Edge (I know I did). Anticipation of standing atop is nearly unbearable. No matter how many videos you watch, you will still be an awe standing atop. Whether you have hiked Katahdin 15 times, or are approaching the trailhead for the first time, excitement builds, and the views don’t disappoint (Weather permitting of course).

The video below features a section of the knife edge showcasing the steep drop-offs and views.

Mount Katahdin

Elevation: 5,269 feet

Elevation Gain: Around 4,000 feet depending on the trail.

Difficulty: Strenuous

Distance: 8.6 miles

Duration: 5-10 hours

Trail Conditions

Knife Edge – 1.1 miles connecting Katahdin and Pamola

This trail is ridiculously awesome. It features insane views in all directions, steep ledges, lots of rock scrambling, cliffs and sometimes even a little danger. Anyone without a fear of heights, and comfortable rock hopping and also comfortable with a short rock climb should do this trail. It is worth it. Keep in mind it is especially dangerous when wet, windy or cold.

Elevation Gain of 365 feet from Pamola to Katahdin

View of Knife Edge from Katahdin Peak

Abol Trail – 4.3 miles base to summit (3,900 foot gain)

The Abol Trail was a great trail up to the peak of Katahdin. It begins at Abol Campground within Baxter state park. It meets up with the Hunt trail near the summit. It is the shortest trail up to the summit and offers some rock scrambling, lots of exposed hiking and quickly gets you above treeline. The trail has no large stream crossings. Though it has quite a few steep sections, it certainly has less scrambling than the Hunt Trail.

Elevation Gain: 3,982 Feet

Hunt Trail – 5.2 miles base to summit (4,188 foot gait)

The Hunt trail is the last trail (or first) for AT thru-hikers. It begins at Katahdin Stream Campground and quickly reaches the summit of Katahdin. It features a beautiful waterfall 1.1 miles from the campground, quick access to the trail above treeline and tons of rock scrambling. The views are incredible the majority of the way up, and the rock scrambling is very fun.

Hunt Trail Views

Hamlin Peak

Hamlin Peak is the second highest mountain in Maine at 4,757 feet, and is often hiked in an 11.2 mile loop starting and ending at the Ranger Station of Baxter State Park.

Baxter State Park Trail Map

What Does Katahdin Mean?

Katahdin was given its name by the Penobscot Indians, that lived in the area. It means “the greatest mountain”. When you first lay eyes on the mountain, you can understand why, as the peaks of Baxter State park rise rapidly from the surroundings.

Baxter State Park Camping

If you plan to stay in or around Baxter State park for more than a day, you have many options. Not only can you stay within the park at numerous campgrounds, but surrounding towns have places you can stay. Many offer shuttles into the park. You can find all of the information you need about camping within the park here: https://baxterstatepark.org/camp-summer/