Starting Sunday, May 28th 2023 the Hunt and Abol Trails will be open for hiking to Baxter Peak.
All other Katahdin Trails remain closed, including Knife Edge, Helon Taylor, Chimney Pond, Hamlin, Cathedral (and Cut-Off), Northwest Basin, North Peaks, Baxter Peak Cut-Off, Saddle and Dudley Trails. The Traveler Range trails also remain closed at this time. All of these closed trails are being assessed regularly for conditions.
All other trails in the Park are open.
Early season hikers need to be prepared for sudden changes in weather and temperatures on Katahdin by having warm and waterproof layers. Remember to have a good supply of water, food, and a headlamp or flashlight. Other recommended gear includes trekking poles, light gloves, warm hat, and quality hiking footwear with good traction.
Our Trail Crew and volunteers have been working on clearing trails, and to date have cut over 700 trees across the Park to provide access to the trails. This work is ongoing, and visitors may encounter trails that are blocked by blown-down trees from winter storms. Hikers should refrain from creating alternate trails to get around downed trees.
Please remember that Baxter State Park is a wilderness park. Practice Leave No Trace principles. Carry out what you carry in, and do not rely on cell phone service within the Park to report emergencies. Firewood, pets, and the use of drones are prohibited in the Park.
We hope you enjoy your time in the Park, and we will continue to provide updates on the opening of additional trails.