Best Hikes in Acadia National Park With Stunning Views
A Guide to the Best Hikes in Acadia National Park
If you’re anything like me, the call of the wild and the crunch of gravel beneath your boots are irresistible. Having explored its trails, peaks, and hidden gems, I can’t wait to spill the beans on the best hikes in Acadia National Park.
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Located along the mid-section of the Maine coast, Acadia National Park is one of the most-visited national parks in the United States. With 158 miles of trails available to explore, it’s also a nature lover’s dream come true.
Picture this: dramatic coastal views, rugged granite peaks, and lush forests that practically beg you to lace up your hiking boots. Acadia is an East Coast gem and a hiker’s paradise, boasting a diverse range of trails suitable for all levels of expertise.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker hungry for a challenge or a nature lover seeking a leisurely stroll, Acadia has got you covered. So, grab your backpack, lace up your hiking boots, and let’s embark on a journey through these best Acadia National Park trails together!
1. Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail
If there’s one hike that screams “I conquered Acadia,” it’s the Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail. Picture this: you’re weaving through a mix of rocky outcrops and lush forests, and with each step, you’re getting closer to the summit of the park’s crown jewel.
This 7.1-mile roundtrip out-and-back trail is the longer, more scenic option for reaching the summit of Cadillac Mountain.
Now, don’t get me wrong, it’s not a walk in the park — pun intended. The South Ridge Trail has its share of challenging sections that’ll make your calves question your life choices. But fear not, the payoff is nothing short of spectacular.
As you gain elevation, the views start playing peek-a-boo, teasing you with glimpses of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands. It’s like nature’s way of saying, “Hey, you’re earning this view, and it’s gonna be epic.”
When you finally hit the top of Cadillac Mountain, the 360-degree panorama will leave you breathless — and it’s not just from the climb.
Pro tip: If you’re a sunrise chaser, set that alarm early and experience daybreak from the top. There’s something magical about being the first to catch those rays painting the sky over Acadia.
2. Jordan Pond Path
For those days when you crave tranquility and scenic beauty, Jordan Pond Path is your go-to. This 3.3-mile loop offers an easy hike as it encircles the pristine Jordan Pond, treating you to picturesque vistas of the Bubbles and the surrounding mountains.
The beauty of Jordan Pond Path lies not just in the trail itself but in the reflective tranquility of the crystal-clear waters of the pond. Just keep in mind that Jordan Pond is a designated public water supply, so wading and swimming are strictly prohibited at all times.
Now, this isn’t your heart-pounding, steep-climbing kind of trail. The path is flat and inviting, making it perfect for a leisurely afternoon escape. Along the way, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for some of the park’s native wildlife, including beaver, loons, and peregrine falcon.
What makes the Jordan Pond trail a must-hike is the way it lets you connect with Acadia’s beauty without breaking a sweat. It’s a chance to lose yourself in thought, find a peaceful spot along the shore, and let the stress of the everyday world melt away.
Pro tip: If you’re able to visit Acadia in autumn, Jordan Pond Path is a great hike to take. The fall foliage of the surrounding mountains reflecting off the tranquil water of the pond is stunningly beautiful.
3. Precipice Trail
Looking for an adrenaline rush? The Precipice Trail is not for the faint of heart. This vertigo-inducing ascent involves iron rungs, granite stairs, and some seriously steep sections. But oh, the payoff!
Picture this: you’re clinging to the side of a granite cliff, and as you ascend, the Atlantic Ocean unveils itself in all its glory. The rugged coastline and the salty breeze make you feel like you’re on the set of a blockbuster adventure movie.
Now, I won’t sugarcoat it — Precipice demands respect. It’s not for children, the faint-hearted, or those with a fear of heights. Additionally, no one should try to tackle this hike in wet weather.
The trail rises over 1,000 feet in just 0.9 miles. However, once you reach the top of Champlain Mountain, the stunning views of the surrounding area make all of the effort worth it.
It’s important to note that you should not descend Precipice Trail the same way you came up. It’s too dangerous and not advised. Instead, you should return using the Champlain North Ridge Trail to the Orange and Black Path, which will bring you back to the parking lot.
If you’ve got the nerve, gear up and let Precipice Trail show you why it’s the thrilling heartbeat of Acadia.
4. Ocean Path
Ocean Path is one of the best hikes in Acadia National Park if you’re yearning for coastal vibes and spectacular views without a steep uphill battle.
This gentle, meandering trail hugs the rugged shoreline and treats you to a visual feast of crashing waves, sea-carved cliff faces, and breathtaking ocean views. This is one of those hikes where every step feels like a front-row seat to Mother Nature’s grand performance.
Most hikers access the Ocean Path trail at the Sand Beach parking lot. However, you can also find access points at Thunder Hole and Otter Point parking areas.
One of the beauties of Ocean Path is its accessibility. It’s not a grueling trek, making it perfect for families, casual hikers, or anyone seeking a leisurely escape.
And let me tell you, the sunset views from here are the stuff of legends. Find a cozy spot on the rocks, kick back, and soak in the beauty as the fiery hues of the setting sun paint the sky.
5. Beehive Loop
Calling all daredevils! The Beehive Loop trail is a short but thrilling hike that involves iron rungs and exposed ledges. Yet it rewards you with panoramic coastal views that will leave you speechless.
The adventure kicks off at the Sand Beach parking area, where you’ll take the Bowl Trail to access the Beehive trail.
As you ascend, the rugged and rocky coastline reveals itself like a spectacular pop-up book. The Atlantic Ocean sprawls out beneath you, and the surrounding cliffs provide a bird’s-eye view of Acadia’s natural wonders.
Now, let’s talk about the infamous iron rungs. They’re definitely as intense as they sound. As you navigate these sections, the adrenaline rush is real, and so are the panoramic payoffs.
This is a loop trail, and you shouldn’t return down the rung and ladders. Instead, continue on the hiking trail until it connects again with the Bowl Trail.
On your descent, there is a Bowl Connector trail that will reduce the overall length of the hike from 1.4 miles to 1.2 miles. However, you’ll miss seeing the scenic Bowl Pond if you take this connector trail.
6. Gorham Mountain Trail
Gorham Mountain Trail is an often-overlooked gem in Acadia National Park. If you’re craving a hike that’s equal parts accessible and awe-inspiring, this is about to become your new favorite trail. It offers a fantastic blend of coastal charm and evergreen forest woodland wonder.
The trail starts at the Gorham Mountain parking lot directly off of Park Loop Road. At 0.2 miles into your hike at the Waldron Bates Commemorative Plaque, the trail splits.
If you go left, you’ll remain on the Gorham Mountain trail. If you go right, you’ll tackle the Cadillac Cliff Trail. This 0.3-mile section has some rungs and ladders to assist you over rock scrambles along old sea cliffs. It finishes with a steep granite stair climb before connecting back to the Gorhman Mountain trail.
As you ascend Gorham Mountain, the trees gradually part, revealing excellent views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. The panoramic vistas are a reward that keeps on giving with every step you take.
Be aware — there is a false summit on this trail! Make sure you keep going to the summit marker so you can really take in all of the beautiful views.
Once you reach the summit of Gorham Mountain, you can have a choice on how to continue your hike. You can retrace your steps back to the start of the trail, or you can continue on until you reach the Bowl Trail.
From here, you can take the Bowl Trail to Sand Beach and pick up the Ocean Path trail, which will bring you back to the Gorham Mountain parking lot.
7. Bar Island Trail
The Bar Island Trail might be one of the lesser-known hikes in Acadia National Park, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth exploring. If you’re up for a hike that comes with a dash of coastal whimsy and a side of unique tidal exploration, this is one of the best trails to check out.
The adventure begins at a beach, just off Bridge Street in Bar Harbor. Sounds simple, right? Well, get ready for the twist — this trail is only accessible during low tide when a natural land bridge emerges, connecting Bar Harbor to Bar Island.
Now, timing here is everything. Before setting off, make sure you’ve checked the tide schedule. If you walk over to Bar Island and lose track of time, it will be around 9 hours until the tide lowers and you can safely walk across again.
The trail provides excellent opportunities for exploring the tide pools and taking in views of the water. Once you reach the island, you’ll gradually ascend through the forest on an old road.
While you’re here, you can explore an old home site and take in a unique view of Bar Harbor. The Bar Island Trail also takes you to the highest point on the island where you’ll find great views of Frenchman Bay and Bar Harbor.
Pro tip: Pack a picnic and some binoculars. The rocky shores make for an excellent spot to unwind and observe the coastal critters doing their thing.
8. Buck Cove Mountain Trail
The Schoodic Peninsula offers a network of trails that take you through spruce forests, pine woodlands, and shrubland. At just over 3 miles, Buck Cove Mountain Trail is one of the longer hikes in this network. If you’re yearning for a hike that’s more about solitude and untamed wilderness, consider this your invitation to discover a hidden gem.
Buck Cove Mountain Trail might not be the first name that pops up in Acadia conversations, and that’s precisely why it’s so special. It’s like stumbling upon a secret chapter in Acadia’s story, where the crowds fade away, and it’s just you and the whispers of the wind in the trees.
The trail starts near the Schoodic Woods Campground. This tends to make parking a little less of a headache than compared to some of the more popular trailheads.
The trail itself is a moderate hike that meanders through a lush forest, unveiling surprises at every turn. The scent of pine needles and the occasional chirp of a distant bird become your hiking soundtrack.
The ascent is steady, not too steep, allowing you to settle into a rhythm and truly soak in the natural beauty around you. As you climb, the foliage gives way, revealing glimpses of the coastline below. It’s a gradual unveiling, and before you know it, you’re treated to panoramic views of the area.
One of the perks of Buck Cove Mountain is the sense of seclusion it offers. It’s not uncommon to have the trail all to yourself, a rarity in a park as popular as Acadia.
9. The Bubbles
There’s a dynamic duo that’s a must on your Acadia bucket list — The Bubbles. These twin peaks, South Bubble and North Bubble, are like the park’s playful punctuation marks, adding exclamation points to your hiking adventure.
Getting to the Bubbles, which rise majestically over Jordan Pond, is a hike that’s as rewarding as it is enjoyable. It’s like getting a two-for-one deal in the Acadia wilderness — the best kind of bargain for us outdoor enthusiasts.
South Bubble is the shorter of the two, but don’t let its height fool you — the view from the top is a knockout. If you’ve seen a snapshot of Acadia with the dramatic foreground of Jordan Pond and those rocky outcrops, chances are it was taken from South Bubble.
The hike to the Bubbles starts at the Bubbles Divide parking lot. As you start your ascent on the Bubble Divide Trail, the hike will become steeper. You’ll tackle some steps just before you reach the junction of the Bubbles Trail.
At this junction, turn right and take the Bubbles Trail to North Bubble. Once you reach the top of North Bubble, you’ll be able to soak in amazing views of Jordan Pond, Pemetic Mountain, Sargent Mountain, and the Cranberry Isles.
When you’re done enjoying the views on North Bubble, retrace your steps down from the summit and take Bubble Trail toward South Bubble. As you reach the summit of South Bubble, you’ll once again be treated to breathtaking views of Jordan Pond and beyond.
When you’re ready to turn back, be sure to check out the famous Bubble Rock, a precariously perched glacial erratic that begs the question, “How did that get there?” It’s a quirky landmark and a great photo op to wrap up your hike. You can then take the Bubbles Divide Trail all the way back to the parking lot.
10. Dorr Mountain South Ridge Loop
Dorr Mountain might not be the highest peak in Acadia, but what it lacks in altitude, it more than makes up for in character. The Dorr Mountain South Ridge Loop is a hiking symphony that hits all the right notes, offering a little bit of everything for every type of hiker.
The adventure begins at a small parking lot near the Sieur de Monts Nature Center, where you’ll find the Dorr Mountain Trailhead. You’ll start on the Ladder Trail/East Face Dorr Trail, which has a steep ascent up granite boulders, steps, and a series of iron rungs with views unfolding before you for a constant source of motivation. As you gain elevation, the landscape morphs from dense forest to exposed granite, a reminder of the park’s dynamic terrain.
One of the highlights of this hike is the chance to traverse the iconic Dorr Mountain ridge. Picture yourself perched on the rocky spine of the ridge, with panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys stretching out before you. It’s like being on top of the world — or at least on top of Acadia.
But wait, there’s more! The loop continues its scenic journey as you descend into the forested slopes of Dorr Mountain’s southern face. The lush canopy provides a welcome respite from the sun, and the tranquil surroundings make it easy to lose yourself in the moment.
Once you reach the base of the mountain, you’ll intersect with Canon Brook Trail. Turn left and follow this trail back to the parking area to finish your hike.
Explore the Best Hikes in Acadia National Park
From the heart-pounding heights of Precipice Trail to the serene stroll around Jordan Pond, we’ve covered some of the best hikes in Acadia National Park.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual stroller, Acadia has a trail with your name on it. The granite peaks, dense forests, and breathtaking coastal views are waiting to become the backdrop of your next adventure.
As you plan your next escapade on these Acadia trails, remember to check hiking conditions, pack those essentials, and embrace the unexpected moments that make hiking more than just a physical journey. May your adventures be filled with awe, wonder, and the occasional surprise around the bend!
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