Guided Katahdin Ascents
Located just eight miles from the South Entrance of Baxter State Park, NEOC offers the perfect base for families and friends to explore the incredible trails of Maine's outdoors. Our team of Registered Maine Guides is dedicated to showcasing the unparalleled beauty of the region, crafting unique and personalized hiking experiences tailored to your desires. From the moment you first reach out to your final departure, each guided trip is carefully curated to ensure a memorable adventure. Our guides are committed to delivering the ultimate Maine experience on every hiking journey.
Nestled within Baxter State Park, adjacent to Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, lies Katahdin—Maine’s highest peak at 5,269 feet! Named "Katahdin" by the Penobscot people, meaning “Greatest Mountain,” Katahdin is renowned as the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail (A.T.) and serves as the starting or final point for many adventurous souls on their journey. It is also the starting point of the International Appalachian Trail.
Join us for a Guided Trip up our beloved mountain!
ABOL
Trail: Abol Trail
Total Distance: 8.8 Miles
Join our Registered Maine Guides for an unforgettable climb to Baxter Peak via the Abol Trail- the most direct route to Katahdin’s iconic summit sign. This 8.8-mile round-trip hike offers a mix of terrain, from lush forest to the occasional rugged rock slides, with breathtaking views along the way.
Challenging yet rewarding, this ascent is perfect for adventurers ready to experience the best of Katahdin. Book your guided hike today!
ROARING BROOK
Trail: Knife Edge
Total Distance: 9.8 Miles
Prerequisite: Experience hiking exposed and rugged terrain recommended
Take on Katahdin’s most thrilling route with our Knife Edge Guided Ascent. Led by our experienced Registered Maine Guides, this challenging and exposed traverse connects Pamola Peak to Baxter Peak, offering jaw-dropping 360° views and an unforgettable adventure.
This route demands confidence with heights and solid hiking experience, but rewards with one of the most iconic ridgeline hikes in the East. If you're ready for the ultimate Katahdin challenge, book your guided ascent today!
ROARING BROOK
Trail: Chimney Pond - Saddle
Total Distance: 11 Miles
This first-timer-friendly route offers a gradual yet rewarding climb to Baxter Peak, following the scenic Chimney Pond Trail (3.3 miles) before ascending via the Saddle Trail (2.2 miles). Along the way, take in stunning views of Chimney Pond, unique perspectives of Knife Edge, and the surrounding terrain. If you want a rewarding climb with stunning vistas and a more approachable route to Maine’s highest peak, this is the ascent for you!
ROARING BROOK
Trail: Chimney Pond - Saddle
Total Distance: 11 Miles
This first-timer-friendly route offers a gradual yet rewarding climb to Baxter Peak, following the scenic Chimney Pond Trail (3.3 miles) before ascending via the Saddle Trail (2.2 miles). Along the way, take in stunning views of Chimney Pond, unique perspectives of Knife Edge, and the surrounding terrain. If you want a rewarding climb with stunning vistas and a more approachable route to Maine’s highest peak, this is the ascent for you!
ABOL
Trail: Abol Trail
Total Distance: 8.8 Miles
Join our Registered Maine Guides for an unforgettable climb to Baxter Peak via the Abol Trail- the most direct route to Katahdin’s iconic summit sign. This 8.8-mile round-trip hike offers a mix of terrain, from lush forest to the occasional rugged rock slides, with breathtaking views along the way.
Challenging yet rewarding, this ascent is perfect for adventurers ready to experience the best of Katahdin. Book your guided hike today!
ROARING BROOK
Trail: Chimney Pond - Saddle
Total Distance: 11 Miles
This first-timer-friendly route offers a gradual yet rewarding climb to Baxter Peak, following the scenic Chimney Pond Trail (3.3 miles) before ascending via the Saddle Trail (2.2 miles). Along the way, take in stunning views of Chimney Pond, unique perspectives of Knife Edge, and the surrounding terrain. If you want a rewarding climb with stunning vistas and a more approachable route to Maine’s highest peak, this is the ascent for you!
What's Included in a Guided Katahdin Ascent?
- Your Guided Ascent includes:
- Registered Maine Guide with a Wilderness First Aid or Wilderness First Responder Certification
- Parking Pass: A guaranteed secure date for each trip offered
- Transportation to-and-from our location into Baxter State Park
- Detailed Gear List
- Medical Kit (on-Guide)
- Water Purification System (on-Guide)
- Fully Curated Bagged Lunch with Snacks
Frequently Asked Questions!
- Will my trip happen if it's raining or there is predicted thunderstorms?
-Guided Trips happen rain or shine. If there is particularly rough weather coming in - or present during the day of your trip - your Guide will communicate the course of action for the day. We do not cancel or offer cancellations if guests do not want to hike in inclement weather. - What do I need to do to prepare for my trip?
-The most important part of preparing for your trip is your attitude and endurance. Attitude is everything. Many people of all physical abilities have climbed Katahdin. Having the will power and desire to do this will get you there! Your Guide will connect with you to discuss activities and strengthening exercises that may be of benefit to you! - I have Dietary Restrictions, can these be accommodated?
- Is it difficult to hike Katahdin?
-Everyone's range of difficulties and what they categorize as difficult varies. Simply put, yes. Katahdin can be an arduous climb in many areas. Katahdin is a climb, not a hike. We will traverse through rocky terrain 98% of the climb while gaining elevation, which is a very different terrain for most. Your Guide will connect with you to detail the day as thoroughly as possible to help you better understand what we will experience throughout the day! - How many guests are permitted on each ascent?
-At NEOC, safety is our number one priority - and because we prioritize safety, we like to keep our numbers small. We permit up to 6 guests per ascent accompanied by 1 to 2 Guides.
-Absolutely. Each bagged lunch consists of a variety of snacks, whole fruit, cheeses, salty and sweet treats, and a sandwich. We can accommodate any dietary restrictions or food allergies.