Day 1: Mount Katahdin

The centerpiece of Baxter State Park and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail sits Mount Katahdin. The highest mountain in Maine at 5,270 feet, Mount Katahdin is over 1,000 feet higher than any other in the state (Sugarloaf Mountain is second highest at 4,237 feet).

For southbound thru-hikers on the Appalachian Trail, your new adventure starts by climbing Mount Katahdin. For most, it's an all-day 8-12 hour trek that you don't want to rush. You'll hike from subalpine fir forest, above treeline, and through numerous alpine habitats with delicate ecosystems.

I can't stress enough how important Leave No Trace comes into place on Mount Katahdin and throughout your long-distance hike. Staying on trail, being mindful others experience, and not littering are great ways to experience this beautiful place. For more information on Leave No Trace practices, check out their website.

One of my favorite places, Mount Katahdin will mark the beginning of your AT adventure. I'll share some insight into what to expect during the hike, tips for a successful first day, and a few preview photos (but not too many!) to get you ready.

Mount Katahdin Quick Facts:

Elevation: 5,270 ft (1,606 m)
10 miles roundtrip
Approximately 8-12 hours, START EARLY!
No alcohol and no trash in Baxter State Park

The Appalachian Trail in Baxter State Park

When you arrive in BSP, you must secure an AT Hiker Permit at the Katahdin Stream Campground Ranger station before attempting to summit. I mention this in the previous portion of Highlight's SOBO Starter Guide, but it's worth mentioning again. Permits are free and you'll provide your actual name, trail name (if you have one), and an emergency contact phone number to receive a permit card. If you sign up for the SOBO Special with the AT Lodge, they will direct you when you arrive in Baxter to get your permit.

How to have a successful first day

Fitness

You don't have to be a marathon runner, however, you don't want to start your southbound thru-hike fresh off the couch. Being physically prepared to hike, climb, and scramble your way to the summit of Mount Katahdin is absolutely necessary. The elevation gain is around 4,000 feet over a distance of 5 miles. Not to mention the 4,000 feet return descent over 5 miles. Overall, the hike to Mount Katahdin is a strenuous and rewarding day, but you'll have to earn it!

Before I hiked the AT, I was commuting to work in midtown Manhattan on my bike five days a week and going for weekend training hikes out of the city. I also did cardio workouts in my apartment and biked everywhere in New York City. I felt pretty confident on my summit day but I sure felt it the next day and throughout the 100-mile wilderness.

Gear

The right gear, shoes, and clothing layers can set you up for a great first day on the Appalachian Trail. However, shoes that are too tight could cause blisters and the wrong jacket could leave you frigid at the summit. You'll likely leave your pack at the ranger station and utilize smaller slackpacks which are available for use on your summit day. Save yourself from hauling your 100-mile wilderness pack load, and pack the essentials in your slackpack:

Water
Snacks
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.)
Rain jacket
Insulated jacket
Headlamp

Positive Attitude

An early start, proper gear, and a full belly is a great way to start the day. Though having a positive attitude can set you up for the days to come and long-term success on your hike. Day one of a six-month-long journey might seem daunting, but nobody makes it to Springer in a day, week, or even a month. Remind yourself that this is a daily journey, with daily motivation to stay goal-focused.

Katahdin Stream Campground

When you get back to Katahdin Stream Campground, head to the ranger station and return your slackpack. This was one of my favorite moments from the day. The hardest part was over and I was about to spend my first night on the Appalachian Trail. As I walked over to lean-to #6, crossing Katahdin Stream, it all hit me. My dream was playing out right before my eyes!

I unpacked and set up my sleeping bag in the lean-to. Bubbles and Michael arrived and we indulged each other with the collective aches and beauty from the day.

100-mile wilderness

The next day you'll start the journey into the 100-mile wilderness, the longest resupply section of the Appalachian Trail. One of my favorite sections, the 100MW requires good food planning. In the next portion of Highlight's SOBO Starter Guide, I'll talk about my stoveless food bag and what I carried in the first epic section of a southbound thru-hike.

Next: 100-mile wilderness