This overlooked Baxter State Park hike offers stunning views of Katahdin

BANGOR DAILY NEWS • August 23, 2026

The Owl is a dramatic peak that rises about 3,700 feet above sea level in Baxter State Park. A rounded mountain that lies just west of Katahdin, the Owl is said to resemble a sitting owl — or an owl’s head — if you use your imagination. The Owl offers amazing views of Katahdin. And in the opposite direction, the view includes a collection of Baxter’s most beloved ponds, including Kidney and Daicey. The hike is fairly short compared to other mountain hikes in the park, an out-and-back trip of 6.6 miles. Alone at the summit, we stretched out on the sun-warmed granite and relaxed for a while before retracing our steps to the trailhead. A swim in Nesowednehunk Stream punctuated a perfect day in the park. ~ Aislinn Sarnacki