Acadia Mountain Trailhead Hike Profile & Guide

Q: Are bears common on this trail?

Black bears are present in Acadia National Park, though encounters are rare.

Q: What gear should I bring for Acadia Mountain Trail?

Sturdy hiking shoes with ankle support, layered clothing, a wind shell, 2 liters of water, a map or GPS, trekking poles if you like them, and a headlamp if you’ll descend near sunset.

Q: Is this hike suitable for kids or beginners?

Due to steep sections and scrambling, it’s not ideal for very young children or hikers with a fear of heights.

Q: Can I do a shorter outing or must I do the loop?

You can opt for the out-and-back (about 1.7 miles total) or complete the loop (2.5–3.0 miles) depending on conditions and your grit.

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Overview

About This Trail

Acadia Mountain Trailhead demands grit. The route climbs steeply with rock scrambling and exposed ledges, pushing you to your limit. Expect 1.5–2.5 hours for the loop (about 0.8–1 hour for the out-and-back); carry ample water since there are no reliable sources on the trail. The payoff is expansive views of Somes Sound, Echo Lake, and the Atlantic, earned through a hard ascent and steady focus.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate to Hard/Advanced

Trail Highlights

Panoramic views from the summit over Somes Sound, the Atlantic Ocean, Echo Lake, and surrounding peaks

Insider Tips

• Loop clockwise: start on Man O' War Brook Fire Road and climb the west side, then descend the steeper east side for relief. • Arrive by 7–8 AM to secure parking and beat the crowds. • Not ideal for very young children due to scrambling; consider easier options.

Best Season to Hike

Summer through Fall

Hiking Tips

Tighten your boots and wear ankle-supporting shoes.
Carry at least 2 liters of water; no reliable water sources.
Loop clockwise: start on Man O' War Brook Fire Road to ascend the west side, then descend the steeper east side for relief.
Dress in layers; sun exposure is real on exposed rock.
Trekking poles help stability; a headlamp is prudent for descent if hiking near sunset.

Family Info

Not ideal for very young children due to steep sections and scrambling

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1.7 miles

Elevation Gain: 985 ft

Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours for the loop; ~0.85 hours (about 51 minutes) for the out-and-back

Difficulty: Moderate to Hard/Advanced

Route Type: Out-and-back with loop options via Man O' War Brook Trail or St. Sauveur Mountain Trail

Surface: Forest floor, rocky ledges, stone staircases, and boulder fields

Getting There

Trailhead: Maine Route 102, across from Echo Lake; ~3 miles south of Somesville; GPS 44.321586, -68.332828

Parking: Small, roadside pull-off parking

Fills Up: Parking fills quickly in peak season; arrive early morning or late evening

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Park entrance pass required May 1–Oct 31; purchase in advance or at entrance; America the Beautiful Pass accepted

Fees: Varies

Shuttle Available

Free Island Explorer Shuttle stops at the trailhead; Acadia National Park pass required to ride

Trail Rules

Dogs: Not available

Biking: Not available

Trail Markers: Well-worn in sections; carry a map

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: No reliable water sources on the trail; carry all necessary water

Shade: Canopy sections in forest; summit and exposed rock are sun-exposed

Cell Service: Spotty

Hazards:

Slippery surfaces when wet; exposed ledges with steep drops; fog can reduce visibility; scrambling demands grip and balance; eastern descent is rugged and extremely steep in spots

Emergency: Not available

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Very busy during peak season and weekends

Peak Times: Peak season weekends; arrive early or late to avoid congestion

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Not available

Family Notes:

Not ideal for very young children due to steep sections and scrambling

Nearby Facilities

Restrooms at trailhead; Echo Lake area facilities nearby

FAQs

Is a park entrance pass required for this hike?

Yes. A park entrance pass is required May 1–October 31; you can purchase in advance or at the entrance. America the Beautiful Pass is accepted.

Are bears common on this trail?

What gear should I bring for Acadia Mountain Trail?

Is this hike suitable for kids or beginners?

Can I do a shorter outing or must I do the loop?

📖 myhikes.org 📖 utahsadventurefamily.com 📖 ericsturgeon.com 📖 citrusmilo.com 📖 liveandlethike.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 musingsofarover.com 📖 hikingproject.com 📖 mainetrailfinder.com 📖 npplan.com 📖 noahlangphotography.com 📖 alltrails.com 📖 kuhl.com 📖 acadiaeastcampground.com 📖 friendsofacadia.org 📖 travelandleisure.com 📖 becausetees.com 📖 reddit.com 📖 seacoastcurrent.com 📖 campsitephotos.com 📖 mapswithnoroads.com ⭐ Google Reviews 🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Acadia Mountain Trailhead