Mount Katahdin's Helon Taylor Trail - Baxter State Park
Hiking & Scenery

Helon Taylor Trail on Mt. Katahdin

Roaring Brook to Pamola Peak

Difficulty: Strenuous
Distance: 3¼ mile
Time: 2 hours, 50 minutes

Named for the much-appreciated former supervisor of Baxter State Park, this trail offers a short but rugged ascent to Pamola Peak.

Take Chimney Pond Trail for ¼ mile; turn west onto Helon Taylor Trail; ascent is fairly steep. Continue ascent southwest, crossing a stream (last water source). The ascent to Keep Ridge begins, with views worth many stops. This entire section, all the way to Pamola, is very exposed; caution is advised, as severe weather could blow in unexpectedly from the blind (west) side of Pamola. Following the cairns (rock piles), ascend the remainder of Keep Ridge to the summit proper, where there are excellent views of the Katahdin range. Here Dudley Trail leaves to the north (right) and the awesome Knife Edge juts out to the southwest (left).

Note: Do not attempt the Knife Edge Trail if inclement weather looks at all threatening; in fact, descend from this peak immediately. The peak, known for its violent storms, inspired the Indian legends of Pamola, the huge, destructive storm bird.

"It was so awe-inspiring as we started our climb in full sunshine and then the clouds began to creep over the top of the ridge and obscure the summit. Soon after we reached the top the clouds gave way to the sun again and wow! The views were spectacular. It was a most rewarding adventure and experience that we shall never forget. What an awesome mountain is the great Katahdin." - Dale & Vickie Bynum, Texas

Other Trails on Mt. Katahdin

The following are the popular trails going up Mt. Katahdin. Each trail features a page of photos so you can get a close look at what they are like.

Park Season & Gate Hours

For safety reasons, rangers at Baxter Park require you to start your hikes early enough to safely finish in daytime. The times are available at our lodge.

Additional Park Info

For more information on Baxter State Park, visit:

www.baxterstateparkauthority.com
www.friendsofbaxter.org