Reviewed trail listing

Baxter Peak via Chimney Pond and Saddle Trail

⌖ Millinocket, Maine

✓Community
verified

⌁11 miDistance

↗4,029 ftElevation gain

△5,271 ftHighest point

◇Out & backHard

Know before you go

About this route

A full Katahdin day via Chimney Pond and the Saddle Trail, combining a long rocky approach, a loose slide and exposed alpine terrain.

This demanding Katahdin route begins at Roaring Brook, follows the rocky Chimney Pond Trail into the basin and then climbs the Saddle Trail to the Tableland and Baxter Peak. The approved out-and-back line covers 10.8 miles with about 3,727 feet of gain, so it calls for an early start, mountain weather gear and a realistic turnaround plan.

Chimney Pond Trail begins gradually and becomes more moderate and rocky. Above the pond, Saddle is Baxter State Park’s most gradual route to Baxter Peak, but it is still strenuous: the final approach to the Tableland includes a steep slide with loose stone and difficult footing. Katahdin access is managed and conditions change quickly; confirm current parking, trail status and weather guidance with the park before departure.

Route character

Long rocky approach to Chimney Pond

Steep, loose Saddle slide

Extended alpine exposure

Confirm current Katahdin access and conditions

Recorded by a community hiker and reviewed before publication. Route approved Sep 13, 2026. Mileage follows the approved recorded line. Elevation is shown when a terrain audit or the approved recording provides enough reliable data.