Katahdin Day Hiking Checklist
Are you in the process of planning a hike up Katahdin? Are you wondering what you need to bring? What is essential versus what you can leave at home? Then this article is for you!
Hiking Katahdin is no easy feat. A lot of people underestimate its severity and end up in dangerous situations because of their lack of research and emergency preparedness. The good news is that you are not one of those people, because you are here reading this article! So, let’s get to it!
Disclaimer: This list was made from my personal experience hiking Katahdin, I am not a professional guide. This list is not exclusive or perfect. As always, use common sense and best judgement when packing your pack.
Here are 10 things to include in your pack when hiking Katahdin:
Your parking reservation
This is necessary for hiking Katahdin. Reserving your parking spot ahead of time means you will be guaranteed a spot at your trailhead and it allows for you to get an earlier start.
Navigation tools (paper map and compass)
These two go hand in hand for a reason. You should always look over the trail you’ll be hiking prior to actually hiking it, so you know what to expect in terms of length and difficulty. Maps are great for helping you find your way if and when plans change due to unforeseen circumstances. Compasses are helpful tools for making sure you’re going the right direction and they can help get you back on track if you lose your way. This is especially important while hiking Katahdin, due to the rapid changes in weather that can happen. If you’re not careful, fog, rain, snow, and wind can send you off in the wrong direction.
Water, food, and more water
Hiking Katahdin is an all-day outing. Think of all the calories you eat during a normal day, then add on the calories you burn while hiking or 6-8 hours. That is how much food you should be bringing with you. Pack foods with high calories and a lot of protein. Some good suggestions are: nuts, protein and granola bars, and candy. Water is important. You can never depend on having access to a reliable water source. A good rule of thumb is to always bring at least 2 quarts of water per person while hiking.
Flashlight or headlamp
Sometimes, hikes don’t go as planned. One of the most common (and most dangerous) situations is people hiking past their turnaround time because they are sooo close to summiting. Then, they find themselves hiking down in the dark, which is hard, confusing, and scary. Without a proper flashlight or headlamp, it would be nearly impossible to find your way back down the mountain. Oh, and cell phones don’t count as a flashlight due to their insufficient battery life.
First aid kit
Injuries are never predictable or fun. Having a first aid kit handy could save your life, especially since emergency personnel may take a while to get to you. Make sure your first aid kit is fully stocked with emergency blankets, multi-sized bandages, pain relievers, a disinfectant, etc.
All-weather clothing
I cannot stress how important it is to wear moisture-wicking clothing when hiking Katahdin. It will help keep you dry, which will help you stay warm. On Katahdin, warmth is key, as the top and bottom of the mountain tend to act like completely different ecosystems. The weather can also change in a matter of minutes, which is why it is so important to pack a rain coat, wind breaker, warm down jacket or fleece, and hats and mittens. I also pack an extra pair of socks in my water-proof bag, just in case. Another huge tip: leave a change of clothes in your car for after you’re done hiking. You’ll thank me for that one.
Matches
You should never hike in the woods without matches. Store them in a waterproof bag or container. Waterproof matches are even better.
Pocket knife
These are extremely versatile and come in handy in a number of situations.
Proper footwear
Not wearing footwear with adequate traction and/or support can be a danger to your health and safety. Don’t be that person.
Hiking companion
Hiking Katahdin on your own is something I would not recommend, for a multitude of reasons. It’s always safer to have someone with you, so grab a buddy and start planning your hike!
I hope you found this article helpful and insightful. I wish you luck with your travels and hiking. Stay safe and smart!
