Thunder Hole

Q: Do I need a park pass to visit Thunder Hole?

Yes. An Acadia entrance pass is required; cost is $35 per vehicle and can be purchased online or at park entrances.

Q: What should I bring for Thunder Hole?

Bring water, sturdy footwear, sun protection, and a light layer for wind off the ocean. There are no on-site water sources, and conditions can change rapidly.

Q: Is there shade along the Ocean Path?

Shade is limited along the coastal stretch. Plan for sun exposure and bring sun protection; shade is more available near Sand Beach and at higher elevation viewpoints.

Q: Can I ride my bike to Thunder Hole?

Biking is not allowed on the Ocean Path to Thunder Hole; use the Island Explorer shuttle to reach the site if you’re avoiding parking.

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Overview

About This Trail

Thunder Hole sits along Acadia’s Ocean Path. A 3.4-mile round trip from Sand Beach gains about 196 feet on a coastal walk, with main viewing via paved paths and stairs. It can crowd quickly, especially at high tide, so stay vigilant near edges and be patient with others. Listen for the thunder of waves as they surge into the inlet and keep off slick granite and out of wave splash range.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy (coastal stroll)

Trail Highlights

The thunder of surf at a natural inlet and the raw power of the ocean unfold from the main viewing area.

Insider Tips

• Arrive early to hear the 'thunder' before crowds • Use the Island Explorer to skip parking hassle • Wear sturdy footwear for slick granite • Keep kids close and away from edge during high waves

Best Season to Hike

Summer is the busiest period. Spring and fall bring milder weather and lighter crowds; autumn generally has fewer visitors and favorable conditions.

Hiking Tips

Carry at least 2 liters of water.
Wear sturdy footwear for slick granite.
Use Island Explorer to avoid parking hassles.
Stay back from the edge; rogue waves can sweep the area.

Family Info

Generally suitable for families; exercise extreme caution due to slippery surfaces and rogue waves; supervise children closely near edges

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 3.4 miles

Elevation Gain: 196 ft

Duration: Thunder Hole viewing 15-30 minutes; 40 minutes each way from Sand Beach (one-way) for the Ocean Path.

Difficulty: Easy (coastal stroll)

Route Type: Out-and-back along the Ocean Path

Surface: Coastal, well-maintained path with sections of stairs

Getting There

Trailhead: Park Loop Road, ~2 miles south of Sand Beach

Parking: Small lot with limited accessible spots

Fills Up: Fills on weekend afternoons in July and August

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Acadia entrance pass required; $35 per vehicle; purchase online or at park entrance stations

Fees: $35 per vehicle

Shuttle Available

Island Explorer shuttle stops at Thunder Hole; recommended to avoid parking delays

Trail Rules

Dogs: Not available

Biking: Not available

Trail Markers: Well worn signs along Park Loop Road and Ocean Path

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None on-site; carry sufficient water

Shade: Primarily full sun exposure along the coastline

Cell Service: Cell service is unreliable around Thunder Hole; plan ahead by downloading offline maps and using the NPS app for park information.

Hazards:

Rocks near the viewing areas can be slick when wet; waves can surge without warning; stay on designated paths and away from edges

Emergency: Call 911 for emergencies; contact Acadia National Park rangers for non-emergency assistance

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Very crowded during peak season and around high tide

Peak Times: Summer weekends and around high tide times

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not available

Family Notes:

Generally suitable for families; exercise extreme caution due to slippery surfaces and rogue waves; supervise children closely near edges

Nearby Facilities

Thunder Hole restrooms; Sand Beach nearby; Island Explorer stops nearby

FAQs

Is Thunder Hole safe for kids?

With supervision, yes. Stay on paved paths, keep children away from edges, and warn them about rogue waves that can reach the viewing areas.

Do I need a park pass to visit Thunder Hole?

What should I bring for Thunder Hole?

Is there shade along the Ocean Path?

Can I ride my bike to Thunder Hole?

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