Flying Mountain Trailhead

Q: Is it safe to hike alone?

Cell service is unknown in portions of the hike; carry a map and compass and consider hiking with a partner.

Q: Do I need special gear?

Closed-toe shoes with good traction; trekking poles are helpful; bring water, snacks, a map, a compass, and extra layers.

Q: How crowded does it get?

Parking is tight on weekends; plan to arrive by 7:30 AM and be prepared for roadside overflow or alternate visits on weekdays.

Q: Is a park entrance pass required to hike Flying Mountain?

Yes. A park entrance pass is required from May 1 through October 31; purchase online or at entrance stations.

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Overview

About This Trail

Mission Brief: Flying Mountain Trail is a 1.5-mile loop with about 300 feet of elevation gain. Expect log and gravel steps, rocky granite, roots, and exposed ledges as you climb toward Somes Sound overlooks. The route rewards with ocean-facing ridges and a rocky Valley Cove area; parking is tight on busy days, so start early. High reward for the effort—stay sharp, hydrate, and move with purpose.

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Trail Highlights

Overlooks along the summit ridge offer Somes Sound and the ocean; rocky Valley Cove beach as a payoff.

Insider Tips

• Hike counter-clockwise to ease descent • Arrive before 7:30 AM on weekends to secure parking • Carry map, compass, and extra layers

Best Season to Hike

Spring, Summer, Fall

Hiking Tips

Carry 3 liters of water per person; dry trail so plan hydration accordingly.
Wear closed-toe shoes with good traction; hiking poles can help on exposed ledges.
Bring a map and compass; cell service is unreliable in parts of the hike.
Start early on weekends to beat crowds and parking challenges.

Family Info

Recommended for families with skilled young hikers due to moderate difficulty and some exposed sections

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1.5 miles

Elevation Gain: 300 ft

Duration: 1-2 hours

Difficulty: Moderate

Route Type: Loop

Surface: Log and gravel steps, rocky granite and stone steps, rocks and roots, exposed ledges, dirt/forest floor

Getting There

Trailhead: Fernald Point Road, off Route 102, Southwest Harbor, ME

Parking: Holding approximately 12 vehicles

Fills Up: Weekend lots fill quickly; aim to arrive by 7:30 AM; roadside overflow if full

Requirements

Permit Required

Park entrance pass required May 1–October 31. Get passes online or at entrance stations. Fees: 7-day private vehicle pass $35; individual hiker pass $20.

Fees: 7-day private vehicle pass $35; individual hiker pass $20

Shuttle Available

Island Explorer does not directly service this trailhead; driving is recommended.

Trail Rules

Dogs: Leashed dogs allowed

Biking: Not permitted

Trail Markers: Bring a map and compass; markers present but navigation in dense sections may require orientation

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: Dry trail; carry all necessary water. Recommended at least 3 liters per person for a full day hike.

Shade: Mixed; forested sections with exposed ledges

Cell Service: Cell service is not documented at Flying Mountain Trailhead; expect limited or no reception along portions of the hike. Download offline maps and pre-plan navigation.

Hazards:

Careful footing required on rocks/roots; watch for exposed ledges and scramble sections; peregrine closures restrict certain approaches; bring footwear with solid grip and trekking poles if available.

Emergency: Call 911; in-park emergencies contact Acadia rangers via park dispatch.

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: High use, especially on weekends between 9 AM-4 PM

Peak Times: Weekends, 9 AM–4 PM

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Mixed; forested terrain with exposed ledges; not fully accessible

Family Notes:

Recommended for families with skilled young hikers due to moderate difficulty and some exposed sections

Nearby Facilities

Nearest services in Southwest Harbor; limited amenities near Fernald Point Road

FAQs

Are there bears on Flying Mountain Trail?

There are no specific bear hazards highlighted for this trail; follow standard park safety: store food securely and stay alert.

Is it safe to hike alone?

Do I need special gear?

How crowded does it get?

Is a park entrance pass required to hike Flying Mountain?

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