What is the steepest mountain in Maine?

Named Katahdin, which means Great Mountain, by the Penobscot Native Americans, it is within Northeast Piscataquis, Piscataquis County, and is the centerpiece of Baxter State Park. It is a steep, tall massif formed from a granite intrusion weathered to the surface.



People Also Ask

Photo Credit : Cathryn McCann The traverse across Knife Edge is relatively tough and requires focus and agility. Some spots are as narrow as four feet, with 2,000-foot drops on either side. Proper equipment, weather preparedness, and good decision-making are necessities.

MORE DETAILS

Katahdin is Maine's tallest peak — and one of the hardest. But the state has plenty of others that are fun and easier on the feet and nerves. For an even greater challenge, try Maine's many rock-climbing routes, which range from granite walls over the Atlantic to hidden granite stashes elsewhere in the state.

MORE DETAILS

The Knife edge isn't real difficult, but there is some rock scrambling to do here and there. Only do it if the weather is perfict, there are some narrow sections with 1000 foot drop offs on either side. It is best done as a loop from the Chimeny pond side, otherwise, you'll have to do it twice. Once over and then back.

MORE DETAILS

The peak has several ways to access its summit which is also the northernmost point of the Appalachian Trail but the trail that gets the most attention is the Knife Edge. This mile long trail offers hikers class 3 and class 2 ridge scrambling with spots of moderate exposure on the northern side of the mountain.

MORE DETAILS

Katahdin was by far one of the most challenging hikes we've done due to the amount of rock scrambling and the sheer elevation gain on the trail. But also the most rewarding! Round trip, the hike took us somewhere between 11-12 hours (including multiple stops for lunch, snacks, etc).

MORE DETAILS