Mount Katahdin is an iconic mountain in Maine. It is the states highest peak standing at 5,269ft tall. This is the Northern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail, a 2,189 mile footpath that stretches from Maine to Georgia. It lies within Baxter State Park, which is an entirely self funded entity thanks to former Governor Percival P Baxter. He served as the sates governor from 1921-1924. Due to his incredible foresight, as well as his passion to protect a place he loved dearly, we still get to experience Baxter State Park as the rugged wilderness area that he loved and intended to protect. The forests, lakes, river and peaks that saturate this park are exceptional and should you ever find yourself in Maine, this is a mandatory adventure stop. I chose this map to represent our Thai Curry because to me they both represent exceptional quality that will never disappoint. Much like the park, this will be a recipe to last for years to come!
My favorite memory of Baxter State Park: This will forever be a special place for me. This is where I began my southbound thru hike of the AT back in 2016. I remember the day we entered the park. We had piled into a dilapidated passenger van early on the morning of June 22, and were driven into Baxter State Park by the hostel owners of the place we had stayed the previous night. The energy in the van amongst us hopeful hikers could be best described as nervous excitement. I remember looking out the window as we bounced along the dirt roads and just thinking to myself “ Holy shit it is finally happening!” We checked in at the ranger station, picked up some daypacks and off we went to begin our ascent to the summit of Katahdin. The trail was steep, strenuous, and unrelenting. I can still picture the class 4 climbing that was required in parts to reach the summit. Hand over foot and straight up those dark grey rocks.
The views upon the summit were nothing short of jaw dropping. To be able to summit on a clear day, with great weather was a rarity. I can still see all the lakes and forests thousands of feet below. The feeling of standing there is something I will hold on to forever. Every journey must begin somewhere. I had no idea at the time that this was going to be a defining moment in my life and ultimately play a part in where I am today, producing Alt Route Meals to support athletes with big dreams all over the world. I cant wait to stand upon that summit again one day, hopefully with views just as stellar.