Knife's Edge, Katahdin

[bart]

Oh man didn't realize you had surgery. Sorry to hear that and best wishes moving forward. I had reconstructive surgery on my ACL 4 years ago and never thought I'd be doing mountains again, but not long after my surgery I hiked Liberty in NH. I was in a lot of pain, but it was an awesome feeling of accomplishment. i know having your hip replaced is whole other animal though. Thanks for all your suggestions. I will definitely check out videos/pics of Gulf Hagas...

[Sea of Atlas]

The gap between Pamola and Chimney is probably the hardest part of the Knife's Edge. Mostly for the fact that you have to scramble down and up a small gap and its steep on both sides, if you have a heavy pack, enlist the help of a friend/spotter. I would not classify myself as a fit hiker, I've always been overweight (not built for climbing), but I have strong legs and that is helped me power through. This is a strenous hike but most definetly doable for an average hiker like myself.

Now also consider that access to the park is so limited that you have to get there ridiculously early. We once got there at 5am and waiting in line at the gate but we were too late. We were pissed but we ended up going to Gulf Hagas, which as Seadangles mentioned is a great hike. The "Grand Canyon" of Maine and at the end of the hike, its an out and back along the river, there are some very deep pools and smooth rocks that make for a great waterslide into pools.

The reservations have been changed and I believe now you can reserve a spot no more than 4 months from arrival. I believe to eliminate all the early-birders that normally snatched up all the spots come January 1st. Chimney Pond is a fantastic spot to stay, its majestic, its also a great base camp to do Knife's edge.

[Sea Dangles]

Another great but challenging hike in Maine is the AT fromrt.4 to rt.16. It covers 4 peaks over 4000' and 11 over 3500'. Three days of nothing but wilderness. Up and down the whole time. An accomplishment I will never forget.Sugarloar,saddleback, the horn,all great peaks to add to your list.

[Bazza]

I have hiked Katahdin once from from Kadahdin Stream Camp Ground up the Hunt Trail. I would like to try again from another route. Knife Edge would be out since my hiking partner does not like heights. Thanks for the video of Knifes Edge. It was neat to stay in the park for camping, definitly rustic, remote, and non comercialized.

[bart]

Bazza, there are tons of videos on youtube and mainelyhiking.com of Katahdin and other killer spots in ME. Gives you a good sense of what you're up against.