Sentinel Mountain from Kidney Pond

Jul 11

Map of Sentinel Mountain Hike from Kidney Pond, Baxter State Park

Elevation Profile of Sentinel Mountain Hike from Kidney Pond, Baxter State Park

Overview. Compared to Doubletop, this is a much shorter, easier, and arguably, more beautiful hike. For relative payoff, Sentinel is certainly a better value if you’re not in the mood for a big day.

Take in the views from Kidney Pond, a nice forest walk on friendly paths, and a short, but physical climb to outstanding views in all directions from the various overlooks atop Sentinel Mountain.

Route Type | Lollipop
Total Distance | 5.64 miles
Elevation Gain | 1,172 feet
Overall Difficulty | Moderate

GPS Waypoints
Trailhead | 45.893739, -69.048931
Sentinel Mountain Trail Junction | 45.887892, -69.048967
Sentinel Mountain Loop Trail Start | 45.869547, -69.062822
Kidney/Daicey Pond Section Map
Baxter State Park Map

Parking. Limited parking is available at the Kidney Pond Trailhead. Baxter State Park staff monitors capacity from the gate and will post as full when capacity is reached. Alternate paths are available to reach the peaks.

Trail navigation. This is another well marked and heavily signed trail at Baxter State Park. Locate the Kidney Pone Trailhead at the end of the parking lot, and follow it southwest until coming alongside Kidney Pond. Continue around the pond until reaching the turn to Sentinel Mountain at mile 0.5. Take this west-southwest and enjoy relatively flat trail with gentle ups and downs until mile 2 where the real climb begins. Ascend Sentinel Mountain for the next half mile before reaching the top and taking the loop to the various overlooks up top. Return to the loop start and retrace your steps to return to your vehicle.

HIKER NOTE - Cabins at Kidney Pond. There are a number of cabins that can be reserved at Kidney Pond (must book well in advance). This is a gorgeous location, and a great spot to hike Sentinel, Oji, Coe, The Brothers, and the many ponds in this section of the park.

CAUTION - Cliffside. Take care not to get too close to the edges of cliffs at the summit. Careless steps can be costly here.

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

CAUTION - Moose. Be aware and never approach moose. Leave a wide berth and turn back if needed.