On Katadhin
The edges of knives, walks in the park, and sore feet.
Mount Katadhin is the highest point in Maine. The Penobscot Indians considered it the “Great Mountain.” Grandfather CWD and I summited it — and Pamola, named after the Thunder Bird in Abenaki mythology — yesterday. Getting to spend the day traversing over rocks with my dad was an honor1 — and, an inspiration to do the same one day with the Kiddos CWD. We finished with full hearts and sore feet.
It was a long day and one of the most stunning hikes I’ve done. We didn’t get back home until late last night, so I apologize that this dispatch is a brief one. Here are a few unedited photos from the hike in lieu of anything thoughtful.
The Family CWD is heading back up to Maine tomorrow — and then on to Nova Scotia next week — for our first international trip with kids. I expect next Friday’s dispatch will be equally brief, so we’ll see you back here with our regularly scheduled content the following.
The defining feature of Katadhin — and the route we took — is the “Knife’s Edge” — a 1.1 mile section of trail along the ridge line between Pamela and Katadhin. The entire trail, as seen in the photos, is set along a jagged edge of ridge, a few feet wide at best, and with 2,000 foot drops to either side.
I found out after we finished that section that Grandfather CWD has developed a fear of heights. I’m sure my suggestions to “look at that avalanche trail!” were much appreciated.
So proud of you and Grandfather CWD, and so happy that father and son had a true bonding experience on the mountain, and away from all earthly distractions other than the earth. What an accomplishment--not for the faint-hearted for sure--and not something the casual hiker could even attempt without loss of life. I love your spirit and willingness to push yourself to the limits and then some. So amazed at the perseverance and strong will of Grandfather CWD, and his love and commitment to his children, grandchildren, family and wife. He is a good man who raised 3 outstanding sons and instilled in them values and virtues that make a boy a man.
Love you, all, always!