Cell service is spotty; download offline maps and the NPS app before you go; signage on the trail helps, but have a plan.

Yes, it's short and easy, but supervise near the tide and keep a tight schedule to avoid getting stranded.

Bar Island Land Bridge

Q: Is it safe to hike this solo?

Go with a buddy if possible. Tide timing adds risk; tell someone your plan and return before rising water.

Q: Is there a restroom at the trailhead?

Restrooms at the trailhead are not documented; plan for a restroom stop in Bar Harbor before/after your hike.

+2 more

Overview

About This Trail

Bar Island Land Bridge is a short, easy half-day outing that sends you across a gravel-sand land bridge to Bar Island and back. The island trail is forested, the land bridge exposed, and the tide is the true boss you must respect. Time your crossing to ride the low-tide window and you unlock tide pools, deer sightings, and old homestead remnants.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy Stroll

Trail Highlights

Tide-pool exploration on Bar Island with a distant Bar Harbor panorama; the payoff is time safe on the island during low tide and the chance to spot marine life

Insider Tips

• Check tide chart before you go; arrive 1.5–2 hours before low tide. • Photograph sign with tide times for emergencies. • Avoid peak hours to reduce crowds and parking stress. • Bring layers; New England weather shifts quickly.

Best Season to Hike

Late spring through fall (May–October)

Hiking Tips

Carry 2L water minimum.
Check tide charts before you go; plan your crossing within the low-tide window.
Closed-toe shoes with good traction are a must for wet, uneven surfaces.
If driving, expect crowded parking; use the fare-free Island Explorer bus when possible.
Do a quick tick check after returning to the island trail.

Family Info

Generally suitable for families due to easy rating; tide hazard requires supervision and time management

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1.9 miles

Elevation Gain: 215 ft

Duration: 45-90 minutes

Difficulty: Easy Stroll

Route Type: Out-and-back

Surface: Gravel, sand, old dirt road, and forested path; land bridge is gravel and sandy

Getting There

Trailhead: Bridge Street, Bar Harbor, ME

Parking: No official NPS lot; paid parking in downtown Bar Harbor; walk to Bridge Street

Fills Up: High-use with crowds; arrive early or use Island Explorer to cut parking stress

Requirements

Permit Required

Acadia National Park entrance pass required for park areas May 1–Oct 31; purchase in advance or at park facilities

Fees: Park entrance fees apply

Shuttle Available

Fare-free Island Explorer bus serves downtown Bar Harbor; short walk from stop to Bridge Street

Trail Rules

Dogs: Leashed dogs allowed

Biking: Not permitted on the Bar Island Land Bridge trail

Trail Markers: Well-marked signs; follow signage toward Bridge Street and Bar Island

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No natural water sources; carry sufficient water

Shade: Forest trails on the island; land bridge exposed to sun

Cell Service: Unreliable; download offline maps and NPS app

Hazards:

Check tide charts; arrive early, move with the tide, and plan an exit before water rises. Tick exposure requires a post-hike check. Mud can immobilize vehicles or hikers on the bar during certain tide states

Emergency: NPS Emergency 911; Bar Harbor Police (non-emergency)

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: High-use trail

Peak Times: Weekends and mid-day; expect congestion in peak season

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Forest trail with uneven surfaces; land bridge exposed

Family Notes:

Generally suitable for families due to easy rating; tide hazard requires supervision and time management

Nearby Facilities

Paid parking downtown Bar Harbor; Island Explorer bus access; services downtown Bar Harbor

FAQs

Are bears a concern on Bar Island?

Black bears inhabit Acadia, but encounters on Bar Island are unlikely; stay attentive, make noise as you move, and store food securely.

Is it safe to hike this solo?

Do I need a map?

Is there a restroom at the trailhead?

Can I bring kids?

📖 nps.gov 📖 mainetrailfinder.com 📖 utahsadventurefamily.com 📖 beyondthemoments.com 📖 noahlangphotography.com 📖 acadiamagic.com ⭐ Google Reviews 🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works →

Visit Website