Chimney Pond Trail

This trail is the most popular route to Baxter Peak, via Chimney Pond.

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Chimney Pond Trail Details

This trail is the most popular route to Baxter Peak, via Chimney Pond, and sees heavy traffic during the warm months. As the trail approaches the South Basin, it provides very nice vistas, especially Lower Basin Pond. During inclement weather, it provides good coverage. From Roaring Brook Campground, proceed left at the junction with Sandy Stream Pond Trail (do not cross the bridge over Roaring Brook, although it's fun to get a glimpse of the brook from it). Shortly after leaving the trailhead, you encounter the junction with Helon Taylor Trail. Continue along the Chimney Pond Trail as it parallels the Roaring Brook and slowly starts to ascend. The trail soon crosses the northeast bank of Roaring Brook and at approximately 1 3/4 miles you will encounter a small boulder along the trail set-back to the left - this is informally known as "Half-Way Rock". At 2 1/4 miles the trail passes the southern shore of the Lower Basin Pond and begins to enter the Great Basin. The trail starts to cross numerous footbridges, encounters the North Basin Cut-off Trail, and passes Dry Pond (which is only full in the spring) and eventually encounters the junction of the North Basin Trail. From here, it's 0.3 miles to Chimney Pond Campground and the shore of Chimney Pond. Katahdin hikes from parking lots require a full day (8-10 hours round trip). Important on all hikes, but especially important on Katahdin hikes; carry a minimum of 2 quarts of water per person.

Difficulty

Moderate

Distance

3.3 miles

Estimated time

2.5 hours

Region

N/A