Dorr Mountain

Q: Is this trail safe for kids?

Not recommended for very small children due to steep drops and ladder sections.

Q: Do I need a park pass to hike here?

Yes. A park entrance pass is required May 1–October 31. Obtain online or at park facilities.

Q: Are restrooms available at the trailhead?

No restrooms at the Ladder Trailhead; plan for sanitation stops at Sieur de Monts or nearby facilities.

Q: Is there a best direction to hike the loop?

Strategy: ascend via Ladder Trail for a challenging start, descend via South Ridge for a more moderate finish and better overall line of sight.

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Overview

About This Trail

The Dorr Mountain South Ridge Loop runs about 3.2 miles round-trip with roughly 1,100–1,270 feet of gain. It relies on the Ladder Trail and Schiff Path in places, featuring granite steps, iron rungs, ladders, and boulder fields. It’s a true lung-buster that rewards focus with a high-adrenergic ridge and coastal vistas at the summit. Enter prepared: strong boots, water, and a plan for the ascent and descent.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Strenuous - advanced difficulty (Ladder Trail section)

Trail Highlights

Summit with panoramic coastal views over Mount Desert Island, Frenchman Bay, and the Atlantic; dramatic granite ridge with exposed sections

Insider Tips

• Consider ascending Ladder Trail and descending via South Ridge for a moderate return and new perspective. • Start pre-8 AM to avoid crowds and heat. • Not suitable for very young children; dogs not allowed on Ladder Trail. • Map, compass, and waterproof layers are non-negotiable; bring trekking poles for stability on steep sections.

Best Season to Hike

Late spring to early fall (May–October)

Hiking Tips

Carry 2L+ water.
Wear sturdy boots with good traction.
Start before 8 AM on weekends.
Bring a map and compass.
Trekking poles help on steep sections.
Dogs are not allowed on the Ladder Trail.

Family Info

Not recommended for very small children or anyone afraid of heights due to steep drop-offs and ladder sections

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 3.2 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,200 ft

Duration: 1-2 hours at a steady pace; 2-3 hours on the Ladder climb; 3-5 hours for the full loop

Difficulty: Strenuous - advanced difficulty (Ladder Trail section)

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Forested path, granite ridgeline, uneven surfaces with iron rungs, ladders, granite steps, and boulder fields

Getting There

Trailhead: Ladder Trailhead, off Maine Route 3, just past The Tarn and Sieur de Monts Entrance

Parking: Gravel roadside parking along Route 3 shoulder near The Tarn; no formalized lot; parking is limited

Fills Up: Busy weekends fill by late morning; arrive before 9:00 AM if possible; otherwise consider an alternate trail

Requirements

Permit Required

Park entrance pass required May 1–October 31. Obtain at online portals, park visitor centers, campgrounds, gift shops, or chambers of commerce; fees: Individual 7-day $20, Private Vehicle 7-day $35, Annual $80

Fees: Individual 7-day $20; Private Vehicle 7-day $35; Annual $80

Shuttle Available

Island Explorer bus (mid-June to October) stops at Sieur de Monts and connects to Kane Path toward Ladder Trail; private paid shuttles to Cadillac Mountain also available

Trail Rules

Dogs: Not allowed on Ladder Trail

Biking: Not specified for Ladder Trail; biking not advised on ladders and granite sections

Trail Markers: Signage at Ladder Trailhead; use a map for navigation; maintain awareness along the ridgeline

Map/GPS recommended

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Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Dry trail; carry all necessary water

Shade: Mixed; forested sections; summit and ridgeline exposed to sun

Cell Service: Spotty in the park

Hazards:

Slippery conditions on granite and iron rungs when wet; hand-over-hand climbing required in ladder sections; steep drop-offs on the Ladder Trail; summit exposure

Emergency: Park rangers (NPS) or dial 911 in emergencies

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: High use, especially on weekends; can be a conga line

Peak Times: Weekends, 9 AM–4 PM

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Rooty and steep in places; not stroller-friendly; ladders and exposed sections require caution

Family Notes:

Not recommended for very small children or anyone afraid of heights due to steep drop-offs and ladder sections

Nearby Facilities

Facilities nearby at Sieur de Monts; trailhead lacks restrooms; plan for breaks in villages or visitor centers nearby

FAQs

Are bears a concern on Dorr Mountain?

Bears are present in Acadia; stay loud, keep food secured, and know routes. Use bear-aware practices and backcountry etiquette.

Is this trail safe for kids?

Do I need a park pass to hike here?

Are restrooms available at the trailhead?

Is there a best direction to hike the loop?

📖 nps.gov 📖 citrusmilo.com 📖 trailandtime.com 📖 acadiaeastcampground.com 📖 mainetrailfinder.com 📖 hikingwithpups.com 📖 trailrunproject.com 📖 mainebyfoot.com 📖 friendsofacadia.org 📖 acadianationalpark.com 📖 acadiamagic.com 📖 reddit.com 📖 youtube.com 📖 miramonte.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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