Katahdin’s Other Summit
While Baxter Peak draws the crowds, Hamlin Peak stands just 111 feet lower at 4,756 feet and receives a fraction of the traffic. The 10-mile round trip from Roaring Brook Campground via Chimney Pond takes you through some of the most dramatic alpine terrain in the eastern United States. The Hamlin Ridge is a long, open ridgeline separating the Great Basin and the North Basin, with views that stretch across the entire park and beyond.
For experienced hikers who have already climbed Katahdin via the standard routes, Hamlin Peak offers a different perspective on the mountain and far more solitude.
The Trail
Start at Roaring Brook Campground and hike 3.3 miles along the Chimney Pond Trail to Chimney Pond Campground, gaining about 1,500 feet. This section follows a brook through dense boreal forest and is shared with everyone heading to Katahdin.
From Chimney Pond, take the North Basin Trail for 0.7 miles, then turn onto the Hamlin Ridge Trail. The trail climbs steeply out of the basin and onto the ridge. Once you gain the ridgeline, you are above treeline for the remainder of the ascent. The ridge is broad and rocky, marked by cairns, with the Great Basin dropping away to the south and the North Basin to the north.
The summit of Hamlin Peak is a broad, flat expanse of alpine tundra and rock. From here, you can see Baxter Peak to the south, the Knife Edge to the southeast, and the entire northern half of the park to the north.
Hamlin Ridge is fully exposed above treeline for over a mile. There is no shelter from wind, rain, or lightning. Weather on Katahdin changes rapidly. Start early and be prepared to turn back if conditions deteriorate. The park rangers will close the upper mountain if conditions warrant it.
Summit Views
The summit of Hamlin Peak offers a perspective on Katahdin that Baxter Peak does not. You look across the Great Basin to the Knife Edge and Pamola Peak from a slightly lower angle, which emphasizes the depth and steepness of the cirque. To the north, the Hamlin Ridge drops away to the tablelands and the remote North Basin. On clear days, the view extends to Traveler Mountain, the northern park boundary, and into Aroostook County.
When to Go
Spring
The upper mountain is typically closed until early June. Snow and ice linger on the ridge well into May.
Summer
July and August offer the most reliable weather. Start early to avoid afternoon storms on the ridge.
Fall
September is excellent if weather cooperates. Colors in the basin are spectacular. October weather is unpredictable.
Winter
Winter mountaineering on Katahdin is for experts only. Park roads are closed.
Practical Notes
If you want to avoid the long approach from Roaring Brook, reserve a campsite at Chimney Pond the night before. This cuts the day hike to about 3.5 miles each way and lets you start the summit push at dawn.
Dogs are not allowed in Baxter State Park. Vehicle reservations are required during peak season and often sell out weeks in advance for Roaring Brook. Cell service is nonexistent throughout the park.
Packing List
Hamlin Peak
- 3 liters of water per person
- Warm layers including fleece and wind shell
- Rain jacket and pants
- Map and compass (no cell service)
- Headlamp
- Lunch and substantial snacks
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- First aid kit
Getting There
Roaring Brook Campground is in Baxter State Park, accessed via the Togue Pond Gate south of Millinocket. From Millinocket, the drive to the gate is about 20 minutes, then another 8 miles on the park road to Roaring Brook. From Bangor, the total drive is about 1 hour 35 minutes.
FAQ
Is Hamlin Peak harder than Baxter Peak?
The distance and elevation gain are comparable. Hamlin Ridge is less technically challenging than the Knife Edge or Hunt Trail but has longer above-treeline exposure. The overall difficulty is similar.
Can I combine Hamlin Peak with Baxter Peak?
Yes. Strong hikers sometimes traverse the ridge from Hamlin to Baxter Peak via the Northwest Basin Trail and the Saddle Trail. This adds significant mileage and should only be attempted with an early start and good weather.
Do I need a reservation?
Yes. Vehicle reservations for Roaring Brook are required during peak season and are competitive. Book early.
How long does the hike take?
Plan for 8 to 11 hours round trip from Roaring Brook, including breaks. From Chimney Pond, the summit push takes 4 to 6 hours round trip.
