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Mt. Katahdin is the highest mountain in Maine. Mt. Katahdin, harsh and at times unforgiving, dominates the vast remote wilderness of Baxter State Park and is located in Northern Maine, about 25 miles northwest of Millinocket.
Mount Katahdin, means "The Greatest Mountain," a name given by the Penobscot people. Many tales of Katahdin, considered a sacred Mountain, are remembered and told by the Penobscot Nation. To climb the Mountain was considered as offensive, an insult to the angry god, Pamola, who had been banished for eternity to the peak as punishment for defiant behavior.
Mt. Katahdin lies within Baxter State Park. The Park was the result of Percival P. Baxter's vision. Over 200,000 acres of mountains, lakes, streams and forest were given in trust to the people of Maine. He wanted to guarantee access to Maine's wilderness and resources while preserving its' unspoiled natural state. Baxter Peak (5,268'), the summit of Maine and northern end of the Appalachian Trail, is the highest point in Maine.
Charles Turner accomplished the first recorded climb in August of 1804. Today, Baxter Peak is the final goal of the hikers on the Appalachian trail of their 2,100-mile journey. It is this journey from Georgia to Maine, which makes this destination the focus of Baxter State Park and Mt. Katahdin.
Mt. Katahdin has its share of recognition... it has been written about countless times, hikers have met their untimely ending attempting to ascent its ruthless terrain, a steamboat was named after the esteemed Mountain as well as two U.S. Navy ships named USS Katahdin, even a song was composed as, "Mount Katahdin".
The Park and Mountain region includes an impressive variety of animals and unique plant life indigenous to its area. One needs to view and experience first hand the wonders and beauty that exists in this region of Maine. Words cannot begin to describe the range of emotions experienced when in the midst of such natural beauty. Percival Baxter would be proud to see his dream being enjoyed, as he so wanted.
For those interested in climbing Mt. Katahdin, visiting, hiking or camping within Baxter State Park, it is highly recommended one considers making reservations in advance. Baxter State Park is open to the public (weather permitting) throughout the year; however, roads are not maintained for winter travel of vehicles. For reservations, you may contact the Reservation Clerk at the Baxter State Park Information Center located at 64 Balsam Drive in Millinocket, Maine or call (207) 723-5140.
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