PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • June 7, 2025
The deaths of two New York hikers this week offer a tragic reminder that attempting to summit Maine’s tallest peak is a high-stakes challenge for even experienced mountaineers. Sometimes underestimated, Katahdin’s combination of challenging terrain and unpredictable weather have contributed to the more than 60 reported deaths on the mountain since officials began tracking that data in 1933. Despite the risks, climbing Katahdin remains a bucket list item for many Mainers. Those interested in attempting to summit the 5,267-foot peak shouldn’t take the challenge lightly. Here’s how they can do it as safely as possible.