Overview. This is a Baxter State Park winter classic that has a picturesque view of Mt. Katahdin and a beautiful scene at Abol Pond/Beach. On this day, there was plenty of fresh, untracked powder from a snowstorm earlier in the week. The walking was a little more physical with several inches of snow, but a couple ladies in our hiking party brought their snowshoes, so they broke trail and we followed.

Route Type | Out and Back
Total Distance | 2.72 miles
Elevation Gain | 305 feet
Physical Demand | Easy
Navigational Challenge | Beginner

GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 45.836289, -68.960372
Split to Abol Stream Trail | 45.836903, -68.960758
Turn to Abol Pond Beach | 45.839944, -68.944383
Abol Pond Beach | 45.840075, -68.939247
Mt. Katahdin Overlook | 45.837550, -68.961036
Baxter State Park Map

Parking. Ample parking is available at the trailhead just north of the Golden Road and short of Abol Bridge if you’re driving from town.

Trail Navigation. This route is well marked and easy to follow - even in the snow. From the parking lot, locate the trailhead on the northeast corner and follow the forest road/trail to the first fork. Turn right and follow along Abol Stream until reaching a pair of signs planted to keep you on trail (fork right and follow the blue blazes). Continue uphill before descending a short, but steepish section before reaching the footbridge leading to Abol Pond and Beach. Retrace your steps and be sure to pop over at the overlook of Mt. Katahdin a few dozen paces up the Appalachian Trail (white blazes) on the southwest corner of the wetland nearest the parking lot.

HIKER NOTE - Mt. Katahdin Overlook. You can skip the pond altogether and walk about 0.18 miles total if you just want to hit the overlook of Mt. Katahdin.

CAUTION - Be Bear Aware. Black bear are plentiful in the region. Know Before You Go => US Forest Service Black Bear Safety Tips

CAUTION - Moose. There were plenty of moose droppings lining the trail. Be aware and never approach moose. Leave a wide berth and turn back if needed.