Mount Katahdin: September 11, 2022

The plan was to hike under the full moon to summit, catch the sunrise and moonset. I started my way up to summit Mount Katahdin in Millinocket, ME via the Hunt Trail(AT – Appalachian Trail). This was my fourth Summit of Mount Katahdin for the Six Pack of Peaks: New England Challenge, seventh peak for 2022.

It was 2:50am start with the full moon above. Following the trail up the “Gateway” I could make out the colors of the early sunrise just beyond the mountains silhouette. While being able to see the full moon dropping down towards the horizon. Up at Katahdin’s tablelands the rising above the peaks summit. There were clouds off in the distance but was a perfect day to make the summit. Reached summit and then proceeded to Katahdin’s South Peak where I took a break before making my way towards Pamola Peak across the Knife Edge Trail. I made my way across the Knife Edge, descended down a steep section just before my steep ascent up to Pamola leading me to Helon Taylor Trail down to Roaring Brook Campground. I finished hiking around 12:13pm.

It was a beautiful day and couldn’t ask for better weather. There were a number of vistas along the way, 360 views from summit and along the Knife Edge as well as Pamola. This was the second time doing this route and plan on doing it again. It is very intimidating and challenging route to hike but every step was worth it. If afraid of heights it was for me and I overcame that fear.

Definitely recommend this hike to others up to summit but exercise caution if attempting to continue on towards Pamola via Knife Edge Trail as there are many areas where the trail is steep and narrow. There are a number of areas requiring more technical climbing up and down rock faces. I really enjoyed the challenge and views from Katahdin. It was worth the trip but always one be prepared.