Acadia offers more than 125 miles of interconnected and looping hiking trails that appeal to explorers of all skill levels. To simply relax and enjoy your vacation on a scenic yet casual walk, try some local favorites which can all be reached from the Island Explorer Bus Service...
Ocean Path
From the upper parking lot at Sand Beach, this easy walk takes you to Otter Point and back. The entire trail skirts the Atlantic, so you have breathtaking views at every step. Stop at Thunder Hole for photos (Easy, 4 mile round trip).
Jesup Path
Start in town at the Village Green and connect to the Jesup Path, which meanders through the woods near Kebo Valley Golf Club and across a bog to Great Meadow, a freshwater marsh (2.5 miles, easy). Visit with park rangers at Acadia’s Nature Center, take a walk through the Wild Gardens of Acadia, and visit the historic Abbe Museum before returning to Bar Harbor. For a one-way walk, take the Island Explorer bus to Sieur de Monts then take a leisurely stroll back to Bar Harbor after visiting these park highlights.
Cadillac Mountain
Hike on the North or South Ridge Trails to the Cadillac summit at 1,530 feet to enjoy spectacular 360-degree views of Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay, and the Cranberry Isles. If driving is your only option, remember that the road to Cadillac often closes when parking is full so visit by tour bus for sunrise or sunset, or enjoy the moon rise or beauty of the starry night skies from this mountain instead.
The Precipice
On the eastern face of Champlain Mountain, you’ll discover the most challenging of the park’s hiking trails. With an exposed 1000-foot vertical surface ascended on rung ladders, the climb is strenuous and recommended for experienced, fit, and fearless adventurers. This hike is not recommended for young children or hikers with a fear of heights. Dogs are prohibited for their safety. The Precipice is also home to a family of endangered peregrine falcons and is always closed between late spring and early summer while these territorial birds are nesting.