Cathedral Trail
The Cathedral Trail offers the shortest climb between Chimney Pond Campground and Baxter Peak.
Plan Around Cathedral Trail
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Cathedral Trail Details
The Cathedral Trail offers the shortest climb between Chimney Pond Campground and Baxter Peak. From the ranger's cabin, the trail heads southwest out of the South Basin and rises through a thick evergreen forest with brief glimpses of Chimney Pond off to your left. The trail proceeds toward the huge rock formations which resemble the buttresses and spires of three cathedrals. The trail passes Cleftrock Pool and encounters the first of the three "cathedrals". Shortly after, the second "cathedral" is reached and then the three "cathedral". At this point the trail proceeds to the left towards Baxter Peak (Cathedral Trail Cut-off is to the right). In 1/4 mile the trail end and junctions with the Saddle Trail. This trail is not recommended for descent, especially when the conditions are wet. It is also not recommended for hikers who are uncomfortable traversing exposed boulder fields.
Difficulty
High
Distance
1.4 miles
Estimated time
3 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Cathedral Trail
Compare nearby parks around Cathedral Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Cathedral Trail
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Cathedral Trail while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
Great Basin
Mount Katahdin is not only "The Greatest Mountain," but it also has its own Great Basin sitting at the bottom.
0.1 mi away
Saddle Trail
While this the best route to take to the Katahdin summit for the novice, it is by no means easy.
0.1 mi away
Chimney Pond
Chimney Pond is one of the most popular campgrounds in Baxter State Park.
0.1 mi away
Dudley Trail
This trail ascends Pamola Peak over very exposed boulders and at a very steep grade.
0.3 mi away
North Basin Trail
For some terrific views this trail starts at .03 of a mile from Chimney Pond Campground.
