Make a gift in honor of the good that comes from BDN journalism in your hands, and help raise $60,000 this spring to support our reporting. Make a donation now.
Katahdin hiking season has officially opened.
The Hunt and Abol trails up Katahdin opened to hikers Tuesday, as well as the Traveler Ridge trails in the northeastern end of Baxter State Park.
The remaining trails up Maine’s highest mountain — Cathedral, Dudley, Hamlin Ridge and Helon Taylor — are closed to hikers until further notice.
Baxter State Park recommends that Katahdin hikers pack a map, compass, headlamp or flashlight (and extra batteries), first aid kit, extra food and water, extra clothing, knife, sunscreen, firestarter, whistle, parachute cord, and more.
Katahdin’s weather can quickly change, and hikers should be prepared to encounter strong winds and chilly temperatures near the summit, even in summer.
Hikers can reserve a day-use parking spot on Baxter State Park’s website, by calling the reservation office at 207-723-5140 or by visiting the park’s headquarters in person in Millinocket. A reservation isn’t needed for hikers who are camping in the park.
