Chimney Pond, Cathedral, Knife Edge and Helon Taylor Loop

Please note: As of June 2019, the Dudley Trail portion of this trail is still closed. You can still hike to Baxter Peak, but you must hike the same way back. Extremely challenging trail with fantastic views along steep, loose rock pile atop 2000 ft cliffs. The Knife edge is very rugged in places - the Chimney is almost a technical climb. The Baxter Peak side of the Knife Edge is a boulder scramble. The gap between Pamola and Chimney peaks can be very challenging because it is very steep and many of the rocks you have to climb up lean in towards the gap. These can be very dangerous in wet weather. Proper equipment and experience are a requirement. This hike should not be taken lightly and you should listen to the rangers prior to making the climb. There is not much help around if you run into trouble. This route is completely exposed and several people have died or have been seriously injured while attempting a traverse in inclement weather and/or high winds. Do not attempt to leave the ridge once you have started. Hiking Knife Edge across and back is not recommended due to its difficulty and the amount of time it adds to the hike it takes approximately 1 to 2 hrs. one way. Access to Knife Edge is from the Roaring Brook Campground. Hiking it from the Hunt or Abol Trails means ending at Roaring Brook Campground, an hour by road from your vehicle on the other side of the mountain. Shuttle service is not provided. Rangers will allow you to pick up if after about 3PM. There is no water on this trail. Trailhead Parking Lots: Roaring Brook Campground, Abol Campground, or Katahdin Stream Campground Note rangers require you to carry a flashlight.