Acadia's Seven Most Scenic Hikes
With over 150 miles of hikes in Acadia National Park, it is hard to narrow down the best and most scenic, but here is my attempt. All of these hikes are ones I have done personally, but if you think I missed any, let me know about it down in the comments!
An exciting and strenuous cliff climb up the walls up Champlain Mountain, this is the most adrenaline pumping hike Acadia has to offer. Tread with caution however, and don’t brush off the many signs that warn of the unprepared who have been seriously injured or died on this trail. Dangerous but doable, this is as close as you can get to rock climbing without a rope and harness. Note: This hike may be closed in the spring to late summer during peregrine falcon nesting season. (Click here for the hiking guide)
2. The Beehive
An Acadian classic, Beehive is a must-do for any Maine bound hiker looking for a quick shot of adventure followed by a tracer of breathtaking views. With exposed cliffs, views of Sand Beach and a hike only a mile long (at its shortest), this 518ft mountain packs a lot of punch for its size.
But despite its size, this hike should not be underestimated. I like to call this hike the little brother of Precipice. Shorter and less strenuous, but at times just as dangerous. (Click here for the hiking guide)
3. Jordan Cliffs Trail
A dramatic climb with breathtaking views of the pond below with just a pinch of exposed ledge climbing. This is a great place to start if you are looking to break into the cliff-climbing hikes but aren’t ready for Beehive or Precipice yet. There is a network of hikes in this area. I personally combined Jordan Cliffs with the hike to South Bubble and Jordan Pond Path. (Click here for the hiking guide)
4. The Bubbles Trail
A moderate hike with a steep section or two, hike up North and South Bubble for some of the best views of the Jordan Pond area as well as a close encounter with a precariously perched boulder placed here by a glacier 2.6 million years ago. (Click here for the hiking guide)
5. Sunrise from Cadillac Summit Loop Trail
This short and easy hike is at the top of the tallest mountain in Acadia, but you can use a car or bus to get you most of the way there. Catch the sunrise from up here to see the first spot in the US the sun shines on every morning (from October through March at least). The hike itself is a 0.3 mile loop around the summit giving you a 360 degree view of the entire park.
6. Jordan Pond Path
A view of “The Bubbles” from Jordan Pond Path
The most relaxed hike on the list. This kid-friendly scenic nature walk is flanked by the Penobscot and Pemetic Mountains and leads you around the entire pond with expansive views of The Bubbles, Jordan Cliffs, Jordan Pond itself, and maybe even a beaver or two.
7. “Hike” around Bar Harbor
Okay, okay. This one isn’t really a ‘hike’ as much as it is a walk around town. But it is definitely an awesome little coastal Maine town you should check out for a burger and beer after a long day of hiking.
Think i missed any? let me here about it in the comments!
