Acadia National Park is one of the most scenic parks in the United States. It combines rocky coastlines, granite cliffs, quiet ponds, and forested mountains in a compact area. Visitors can hike ocean paths in the morning and reach mountain summits by afternoon. The park is also known for dramatic cliff trails, historic carriage roads, and some of the earliest fall foliage in New England.
For travelers planning a trip to Maine, hiking is the best way to experience Acadia. The park offers routes for beginners, families, and experienced adventure seekers. Many trails are short but rewarding, with views that feel far bigger than the mileage suggests. This Acadia hiking guide focuses on the Best Hikes In Acadia National Park, covering classic cliff hikes, easy shoreline walks, and peaceful summit trails.
Below are ten must-do hikes that showcase the best of Acadia National Park trails, with practical details to help you plan safely and confidently.
Beehive Trail
Brief overview
The Beehive Trail is one of Acadia’s most famous hikes. It is short, steep, and features iron rungs and exposed rock faces.
Why it is worth hiking
This trail delivers big views with minimal distance. It is a classic Acadia cliff hike and a favorite for adventurous hikers.
Views and highlights
Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Sand Beach, Great Head, and the Atlantic Ocean. The exposed ascent makes the scenery feel dramatic and immediate.
Safety notes
This hike is not suitable for people afraid of heights. The trail includes ladders and narrow ledges. Avoid hiking during rain or high winds.
Best time to visit
Early morning is best to avoid crowds and heat. Summer and early fall offer the safest conditions.
Distance, elevation gain, and difficulty
Distance is about 1.4 miles round trip. Elevation gain is roughly 450 feet. Difficulty is strenuous due to exposure.
Who this hike is best for
Best for experienced hikers and adventure seekers who are comfortable with heights.
Precipice Trail
Brief overview
The Precipice Trail is the most challenging hike in Acadia National Park. It climbs the eastern face of Champlain Mountain using ladders and iron rungs.
Why it is worth hiking
This is one of the most thrilling hikes in Maine. It offers unmatched exposure and sweeping views.
Views and highlights
Views stretch across Frenchman Bay, Bar Harbor, and the Porcupine Islands. The vertical ascent adds to the intensity.
Safety notes
This trail is extremely exposed. It is not recommended for beginners. It often closes in spring and early summer to protect nesting peregrine falcons. Check park alerts before hiking.
Best time to visit
Late summer to early fall, when the trail is open and conditions are dry.
Distance, elevation gain, and difficulty
Distance is about 2.5 miles round trip. Elevation gain is around 1,000 feet. Difficulty is very strenuous.
Who this hike is best for
Best for experienced hikers seeking a serious Acadia cliff hike.
Jordan Pond Loop
Brief overview
The Jordan Pond Loop is a flat, scenic trail that circles one of Acadia’s most iconic landscapes.
Why it is worth hiking
This trail offers classic Acadia views with minimal effort. It is accessible and peaceful.
Views and highlights
Highlights include clear pond water, views of the North and South Bubble Mountains, and wooden boardwalks along the shoreline.
Safety notes
Boardwalk sections can be slippery when wet. Wear shoes with good grip.
Best time to visit
Morning and late afternoon are ideal. Fall brings reflections of foliage in the water.
Distance, elevation gain, and difficulty
Distance is 3.4 miles. Elevation gain is minimal. Difficulty is easy.
Who this hike is best for
Perfect for families, beginners, and anyone seeking a relaxed walk.
South Bubble Trail
Brief overview
The South Bubble Trail climbs one of the iconic Bubble Mountains overlooking Jordan Pond.
Why it is worth hiking
It is a short hike with a rewarding summit and one of the park’s most famous viewpoints.
Views and highlights
From the top, hikers see Jordan Pond framed by surrounding mountains. The Bubble Rock, a massive glacial erratic, is a highlight.
Safety notes
Rocky sections near the summit can be slippery. Stay clear of cliff edges.
Best time to visit
Late spring through fall. Early morning offers fewer crowds.
Distance, elevation gain, and difficulty
Distance is about 1 mile round trip from the Bubbles Divide. Elevation gain is around 250 feet. Difficulty is moderate.
Who this hike is best for
Good for families with older children and casual hikers.
Ocean Path
Brief overview
Ocean Path is a coastal trail that follows Park Loop Road along Acadia’s rocky shoreline.
Why it is worth hiking
This trail showcases Acadia’s dramatic coast without elevation gain.
Views and highlights
Highlights include Thunder Hole, Otter Cliff, and constant ocean views. Waves crashing against the rocks are a major attraction.
Safety notes
Stay back from cliff edges and never turn your back on the ocean during rough seas.
Best time to visit
Any season, but summer and fall offer the best weather.
Distance, elevation gain, and difficulty
Distance is about 4 miles one way. Elevation gain is minimal. Difficulty is easy.
Who this hike is best for
Ideal for beginners, families, and photographers.
Cadillac Summit Loop
Brief overview
The Cadillac Summit Loop circles the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the U.S. East Coast.
Why it is worth hiking
It offers 360-degree views with very little effort.
Views and highlights
Views include Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay, and inland mountains. Sunrise is a popular experience here.
Safety notes
Weather changes quickly at the summit. Dress in layers and watch for traffic near parking areas.
Best time to visit
Early morning or sunset. Fall provides clear skies and foliage views.
Distance, elevation gain, and difficulty
Distance is about 0.5 miles. Elevation gain is minimal. Difficulty is easy.
Who this hike is best for
Great for all ages and fitness levels.
Bass Harbor Lighthouse
Brief overview
This short trail leads to one of Maine’s most photographed lighthouses.
Why it is worth hiking
It combines coastal scenery with an iconic landmark.
Views and highlights
The lighthouse perched on rocky cliffs is the main highlight, especially at sunset.
Safety notes
Climbing on rocks near the water is dangerous. Stay on designated paths.
Best time to visit
Late afternoon to sunset for the best light.
Distance, elevation gain, and difficulty
Distance is under 0.5 miles. Elevation gain is minimal. Difficulty is easy.
Who this hike is best for
Best for families, casual walkers, and photographers.
Beech Mountain Fire Tower
Brief overview
This hike leads to a historic fire tower on Beech Mountain on the quieter side of the park.
Why it is worth hiking
It offers excellent views without heavy crowds.
Views and highlights
From the tower, hikers can see Long Pond, Echo Lake, and surrounding hills.
Safety notes
Stairs in the fire tower can be steep. Supervise children closely.
Best time to visit
Spring through fall. Clear days offer the best views.
Distance, elevation gain, and difficulty
Distance is about 1.2 miles round trip. Elevation gain is around 400 feet. Difficulty is moderate.
Who this hike is best for
Good for families with older kids and hikers seeking quieter Maine hiking trails.
Flying Mountain
Brief overview
Flying Mountain is a short but steep hike near Southwest Harbor.
Why it is worth hiking
It delivers sweeping coastal views with very little time commitment.
Views and highlights
The summit overlooks Somes Sound, one of the few fjords on the East Coast.
Safety notes
Summit ledges are exposed. Keep a safe distance from edges.
Best time to visit
Morning or late afternoon. Fall foliage is especially beautiful here.
Distance, elevation gain, and difficulty
Distance is about 1.4 miles round trip. Elevation gain is around 250 feet. Difficulty is moderate.
Who this hike is best for
Ideal for beginners looking to try a summit hike.
Jordan Cliffs Trail
Brief overview
Jordan Cliffs Trail climbs above Jordan Pond and connects to longer mountain routes.
Why it is worth hiking
It combines forest hiking with dramatic cliffside views.
Views and highlights
Cliff overlooks of Jordan Pond and surrounding peaks are the main attraction.
Safety notes
Exposed sections require caution. Not suitable in wet or icy conditions.
Best time to visit
Late spring to early fall, on dry days.
Distance, elevation gain, and difficulty
Distance varies, but the core section is about 2 miles. Elevation gain is around 500 feet. Difficulty is strenuous.
Who this hike is best for
Best for experienced hikers looking to explore less crowded Acadia hiking trails.
Best Time to Hike in Acadia National Park
The best hiking season in Acadia runs from late May through October. Summer offers stable weather but heavier crowds. September and early October are ideal for cooler temperatures and fall foliage. Spring can be muddy, and some cliff trails may be closed for wildlife protection.
Safety Tips for Cliff Hikes
Always check trail conditions before hiking. Wear sturdy footwear with good traction. Avoid cliff hikes during rain, fog, or high winds. Keep hands free and move slowly on ladders and rungs. Never push beyond your comfort level.
Family Friendly Hikes in Acadia
Jordan Pond Loop, Ocean Path, Cadillac Summit Loop, and Bass Harbor Lighthouse are among the best hikes in Acadia for families. These trails offer great views with minimal risk and manageable distances.
Fall Foliage Hiking Tips
Visit from mid-September to early October for peak color. Start early to avoid crowds. Bring layers, as temperatures change quickly. Stick to established trails to protect fragile vegetation.
Using a Map to Plan Your Hikes
A detailed trail map is essential for planning hikes in Acadia National Park. Use official park maps or reputable hiking apps to locate trailheads, check distances, and connect routes. Maps help you plan efficient days and avoid unnecessary backtracking.
Closing
Acadia National Park offers some of the most rewarding hiking experiences in Maine. From dramatic cliff hikes to peaceful pond loops, these trails showcase the best the park has to offer. Plan ahead, hike responsibly, and follow Leave No Trace principles. Respect wildlife, stay on trails, and help preserve Acadia for future visitors.
