Mt. Katahdin via Knife Edge Trail

Start the hike at Roaring Brook Campground and follow the Chimney Pond Trail for 3.3 miles one-way (Elevation gain 1,425 ft).

Upon reaching the Chimney Pond Campground, we re-watered and started up Dudley Trail for a short, but steep 1.3 miles one-way (Elevation gain to Pamola Peak 1,988 ft). No water is available on this trail, and it is above the treeline.

After breaking for lunch on top of Pamola Peak, we began crossing the Knife Edge Trail, 1.1 miles one-way (Elevation gain to Baxter Peak 365 ft). This is a very dangerous trail that should not be attempted in inclement weather and/or in strong winds.

After reaching Baxter Peak and taking in the views, we descended via the Saddle Trail 2.2 miles one-way (Elevation loss to Chimney Pond Campground 2,353 ft). 

Taking in a great view of the lake and watering up, we returned to the Roaring Brook Campground via the Chimney Pond Trail for 3.3 miles one-way (Elevation loss 1,425).

NOTES:

• Difficulty level: Very Strenuous     
• Trailhead Parking Lot: Roaring Brook Campground
• Campground Reservations: visit BaxterStatePark.org for seasonal and campground-specific information

PACK LIST:

• Three - days worth of provisions at 3000 calories a day.
• Bear barrel
• Lightweight 30-L rucksack
• 45 degree sleeping bag with extra fleece liner (it gets cold at night) and sleeping pad
• Aluminum camp pot to boil water and water filter
• 30ft of parachord
• Multitool and headlamp
• A pair of 2L collapsable water bottles
• Emergency space blanket
• Bug repellant
• 2 oil drum liners for keeping the contents of my pack dry
• Map of the park (with all emergency numbers) and compass
• 3 pairs of wool socks (1 for sleeping only)
• 3 pairs of synthetic underwear and synthetic long-johns
• Packable down jacket and fleece
• Packable outer shell
• Running shorts
• Trail runners (although I recommend hiking boots after doing this)
• Wool hat and fleece gloves for sleeping