Sturdy traction footwear, gloves for grip on rungs, and water; trekking poles can hinder on iron sections, so choose carefully.

Beehive Trail, Acadia National Park: 1.4–1.6 Mile Loop with Iron Rungs and Ocean Views

Q: Is it safe to hike Beehive alone?

Hiking alone is possible but riskier; tell someone your plan, stay to the marked route, and keep pace with your comfort level.

Q: How technical is the Beehive?

Sections involve iron rungs and scrambling; think Class 2/3 scrambling in parts; assess your comfort with exposure before proceeding.

Q: Can kids do this trail?

Not ideal for small children; exposed cliffs and scrambling require cautious judgment and physical readiness.

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Overview

About This Trail

The Beehive Trail is a loop with steep granite stairs and iron rungs, climbing through exposed cliff faces. Expect 450-520 feet of gain over 1.4-1.9 miles, with hands-on scrambling and long moments in direct sun. Crowds can bottleneck sections, so stay sharp and pace yourself for the ascent and descent. The payoff is a coastal panorama from the summit area and the Bowl near the top.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Hard

Trail Highlights

Coastline views including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Gulf of Maine; summit pond known as The Bowl

Insider Tips

• Hike clockwise for the most rewarding views and to ascend the iron rungs. • Start very early or consider late afternoon to avoid the worst crowds. • Descend with caution due to congestion. • Use the Island Explorer to minimize parking hassles.

Best Season to Hike

Spring, Summer, Fall

Hiking Tips

Carry at least 2 liters of water.
Sturdy traction shoes a must; trekking poles may hinder iron rungs.
Hike clockwise to optimize views and keep rhythm on the rungs.
Descend with caution; congestion makes it dangerous.

Family Info

Not recommended for small children or those with a significant fear of heights; assess risk before bringing kids

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1.6 miles

Elevation Gain: 480 ft

Duration: 1-3 hours

Difficulty: Hard

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Rocky; sections of packed dirt; loose scree; boulder fields; iron rungs; granite staircases

Getting There

Trailhead: Park Loop Road near Sand Beach, Acadia National Park

Parking: Sand Beach lot ~100 spots; roadside parking along Park Loop Road

Fills Up: Often full by 7-8 AM in peak season

Restrooms at trailhead

Requirements

Permit Required

Acadia entrance fee required; no separate day-hike permit for Beehive

Fees: Acadia National Park entrance fee is required for all visitors. Payable at the park entrance gate or online; the price depends on the vehicle type and is listed by the National Park Service.

Shuttle Available

Island Explorer bus stops at the Sand Beach parking lot; use it to reduce driving stress and parking battles

Trail Rules

Dogs: Not available

Biking: Not allowed

Trail Markers: Signs and cairns; generally well marked, but verify with map for optional detours

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

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

Shade: Full sun exposure on cliff sections; limited shade on ascent

Cell Service: Unreliable; dead zone in several sections

Hazards:

Steep, unprotected edges; rock can be slick after rain or dew; congestion on iron rungs creates risk of slips; scrambling demands grip and balance with minimal margin for error

Emergency: 911 for emergencies; Acadia National Park rangers via the park's main information line

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: Extremely crowded, especially peak season and midday

Peak Times: Midday in peak season; mornings quieter

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty and steep with exposed sections; not wheelchair accessible

Family Notes:

Not recommended for small children or those with a significant fear of heights; assess risk before bringing kids

Nearby Facilities

Restrooms at Sand Beach; parking facilities; Park Loop Road amenities nearby

FAQs

Are there bears on the Beehive Trail?

Bears inhabit the region; make noise, store food properly, and stay alert while moving along rocky sections.

Is it safe to hike Beehive alone?

What gear do I need?

How technical is the Beehive?

Can kids do this trail?

📖 tripioapp.com 📖 acadiaeastcampground.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 hatchetsupply.com 📖 undercanvas.com 📖 polyphagicabby.com 📖 tm2maine.com 📖 949whom.com 📖 youtube.com 📖 wherearethosemorgans.com 📖 mainetrailfinder.com 📖 earthtrekkers.com 📖 noahlangphotography.com 📖 alibaba.com 📖 reddit.com 📖 beyondmydoor.com 📖 dirtinmyshoes.com 📖 jameskaiser.com 📖 destinedglobetrotter.com 📖 rome2rio.com ⭐ Google Reviews 🏞️ National Park Service 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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Beehive Trail