Mt. Katahdin: Translation of this Indian word means "the greatest mountain". Native Maine Indians considered the mountain a holy place. Located in Baxter State Park in northern Maine, the top of Mt. Katahdin ( 5267 ft.) is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Climbing Katahdin is a 5.2 mile trek ascending 4000 ft in elevation. Roundtrip up and down Katahdin is 10.4 miles before you begin the trail itself.