Natural Attraction
Satterlee Teahouse
Rocky coastal headlands frame views of Frenchman's Bay and the surrounding mountains—the same panorama that drew the Satterlee family to build a circular teahouse here in 1915. Modeled after English Martello defensive towers, the 15-foot stone structure was demolished in the 1960s due to safety concerns. The site endures as an interpretive spot on Great Head Trail, revealing how Gilded Age families shaped Acadia's coastal landscape.
Access & viewing
- GPS Coordinates
- 44.328417,-68.174528
More details
- Family Friendly Notes
- Coastal location with cliff exposure and steep rocky sections. Suitable for families with school-age children when supervised; younger children may find it challenging. Wear sturdy footwear.
- Attraction Type
- Historical Site
- Accessibility Level
- Moderate. Requires hiking Great Head Trail with rocky terrain, elevation gain, and cliff exposure.
- How To Get There
- Located on Great Head Trail in eastern Acadia National Park. Hike Great Head Trail from the trailhead; the former teahouse site is marked along the route.
- Main Features
- Rocky coastal headland, panoramic views of Frenchman's Bay and mountains, interpretive site marking the location of a demolished Gilded Age teahouse
- What Youll See
- Rocky coastal headland, coastal forest, Frenchman's Bay, distant mainland mountains
- Unique Characteristics
- Gilded Age estate teahouse built 1915, modeled after English Martello towers, stood 15 feet tall with 18-foot diameter. Survived 1947 Acadia fire but demolished 1960s due to safety concerns.
- Safety Considerations
- Rocky coastal headland with cliff exposure and steep sections. Stay on marked trail. Exposed to Atlantic weather and wind. Slippery conditions possible on wet rocks. Do not approach cliff edges.
- Best Viewpoints
- The headland summit where the teahouse once stood offers the most expansive views of Frenchman's Bay and surrounding landscape.
- Photo Opportunities
- Sunrise and sunset lighting over Frenchman's Bay; coastal rocky formations; views of distant mountains
- Visitor Center Present
- 0
- Water Available
- 0
- Trailheads Here
- Great Head Trail
Location
Frequently asked questions
Is this worth visiting if the teahouse is gone?
Yes. The site offers the same panoramic views of Frenchman's Bay and mountains that drew the Satterlee family to build here in 1915. It's a direct window into how Gilded Age families shaped Acadia.
Why was the teahouse demolished?
The National Park Service removed it in the 1960s due to safety concerns. Though it survived the 1947 fire, the exposed coastal setting posed ongoing structural challenges.
How difficult is Great Head Trail?
Moderate. Expect rocky sections, elevation gain, and cliff exposure. Suitable for families with kids if they're supervised and wear appropriate footwear.
Are there facilities or services at this location?
No. Restrooms and parking are at the Great Head Trail trailhead. Bring water for the hike.
What will I actually see when I get there?
The rocky headland and coastal forest that surrounds the former site, marked interpretively. On clear days, panoramic views of Frenchman's Bay and the distant mainland mountains.
What's the best time of year to visit?
Clear weather days offer the best views. Summer through early fall (June-October) is most popular, though the coastal scenery is accessible year-round.
More at Acadia National Park
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Little Harbor Brook
Shallow brook beside a mossy trail; formed by glacial erosion and meltwater through Ellsworth Schist.
Eagle Lake
Eagle Lake — glacially carved freshwater lake with clear, deep water in Acadia NP
Acadia National Park Pond
Crystal-clear Jordan Pond is a 187-acre, 150-foot-deep glacial tarn beside the Bubbles.
Cadillac Mountain Overlook
Granite monadnock with glacial polish; sunrise views from Cadillac Mountain summit.
Cadillac Mountain
Granite crown; first light on the U.S. coast; sculpted by ancient glaciers.
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Sources
- National Park Service
- YourNPGuide Editorial
Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.
Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.