Basin Pond on Katahdin is a remote and rewarding alpine landmark, reached in the midst of a strenuous climb. Its still waters reflect the surrounding basins, creating a secret, tranquil place for hikers who put in the work to get there.
Sure signs that the mountain’s open season is winding down: fading fall colors and low water levels. This brings a sense of accomplishment. Another safe and successful guide season is in the books.
The reward lies not just in the view, but in how you breathe it in. A tough hike to achieve this scene, guided by many emotions unfolding as the topography lines stack more and more on the map.
The summit draws near as the cloudworks roll in, a quintessential Katahdin experience; pushing through the pain to get the reward.
Maine’s most talked-about trail, Knife Edge. Rugged, jagged, tempting, and endlessly curious. A trail of stark contrasts, shadowed by the injuries and perishings along its path.
Story behind the photos:
In 2017, I made the decision that outside of my full-time role as a Marketing Manager, I wanted to step into the field and actively promote the experiences my company offered. The New England Outdoor Center provides a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities, but what drew me most was the challenge of guiding Katahdin ascents. Climbing Katahdin is notoriously difficult, and I wanted to earn my guide license to help people take on that mountain.
Over the years, I’ve grown my professional guiding skills, even owning a guide service for a time. Working with a commercial outfitter has taught me countless lessons, but the most important is never to be complacent with guests. My fitness might differ from theirs, but patience and calm are non-negotiable and you never let guests see you sweat.
In the summer of 2023, I found myself back in the field after selling my half of the guide service I had owned. I was feeling nostalgic about guiding alongside old friends, though this time my co-guide, a strong trail runner and great person, brought a different dynamic. On that trip, I was leading six guests when, near Basin Pond, one of them casually mentioned wanting to take a nap, then immediately collapsed. Instinct and Wilderness First Responder training took over. I caught him, eased him between two boulders, and watched the longest seven seconds of my life pass before he came to, admitting he had a history of fainting.
With electrolytes, carbs, time, and the steady support of my co-guide, we got him back on his feet and safely down the remainder of the mountain. While leading my group out, I shed a few tears from the stress of the situation, because in those moments, you have to remain completely calm to save face and set the tone.
It remains the scariest moment I’ve ever had guiding in the backcountry, and knock on wood, one I haven’t had to face again.
1 Response
I really like the shape the mountains make and how that general shape is visible in all the images