Katahdin Baxter Peak via AT – Appalachian Trail

Distance: 10.4 miles Elevation Gain: 4188 ft Difficulty: Strenuous Type: Out-and-Back Surface: Natural Activity: Hiking Best Season: June-October Typical Time: 8-12 hours Fee: $15 vehicle entrance fee (Maine residents free) Dogs: False Permit: True

Katahdin Baxter Peak at 5267 feet is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail at AT mile 2190, the culminating destination for northbound thru-hikers who arrive after walking from Georgia. The standard day-hike route follows the Hunt Trail from Katahdin Stream Campground, the same route designated as the AT for the final approach, making it the most authentic way to experience the terminal miles of the continent longest footpath.

The Hunt Trail ascends through boreal forest before emerging onto the massive Tablelands, a broad high plateau of arctic-alpine tundra. The final push to Baxter Peak crosses the Gateway, a narrow col between the Tablelands and the summit cone, requiring significant scrambling on large boulders. The iconic wooden sign at the summit reads Northern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail, and a second sign marks the southern boundary of Baxter State Park.

Baxter State Park requires advance day-use reservations for Katahdin trailheads, available online at the park website, and they sell out weeks or months in advance for peak season. Dogs are not permitted in Baxter State Park. The park has no cell service. The Knife Edge, a narrow arrete connecting Baxter Peak to Pamola Peak, is an optional extension requiring extreme caution. Former Maine Governor Percival Baxter donated the 209501-acre park to the state between 1931 and 1962, mandating it remain forever wild.