
Mission Brief: Ship Harbor Trail is a 1.3-mile figure-8 loop with mostly level ground and a mix of dirt, gravel, and rocky sections. It is labeled easy and family-friendly, but footing can be slick in coastal zones and around bog bridges. Expect crowds on weekends; arrive early and carry ample water. The payoff comes from tide pools at low tide and plentiful birdlife along the coast.
Easy Stroll
Coastal shoreline and tide pools; a quiet cove; reliable birdwatching along the coast.
At junctions, taking the right-hand path generally returns you toward the parking area. Save the Ship Harbor side loop for last to catch coastal views. Arrive early on weekends to beat crowds. At low tide, tide pools are exposed for easier observation.
Spring, Summer, Fall
Family-friendly with mostly level terrain; caution on slippery rocks near water
A 1.3-mile round-trip along the coast with about 60 feet of elevation gain. The first loop is ADA accessible; the second loop has hills and isn’t ADA accessible, though it remains easy. Expect forested sections, shoreline views, and tide pools. This trail suits families and casual hikers, though weekend crowds can be heavy.
Acadia entrance pass required May 1–Oct 31; $35 per vehicle for 7 days; online or at park info centers
No shuttle service available
Stay on center of trail during slick sections; perform tick checks after hiking; footwear with traction recommended
Not available
Family-friendly with mostly level terrain; caution on slippery rocks near water
Vault toilets at trailhead; park information centers nearby; no shuttle
A 1.3-mile round-trip along the coast with about 60 feet of elevation gain. The first loop is ADA accessible; the second loop has hills and isn’t ADA accessible, though it remains easy. Expect forested sections, shoreline views, and tide pools. This trail suits families and casual hikers, though weekend crowds can be heavy.
Address
Ship Harbor Trail, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679, USA
Based on 110 Google reviews
Based on 110 guest reviews
" A 1.3-mile round-trip along the coast with about 60 feet of elevation gain. The first loop is ADA accessible; the second loop has hills and isn’t ADA accessible, though it remains easy. Expect forested sections, shoreline views, and tide pools. This trail suits families and casual hikers, though weekend crowds can be heavy."
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Not specifically noted for this trail; follow standard park precautions and store food securely while hiking.
Yes; the route is short, mostly level, and suitable for families, with a caution to watch footing near water and on slick rocks.
An Acadia National Park entrance pass is required May 1–October 31; cost is $35 per vehicle for 7 days.
No; the small lot fills on summer weekends. Plan to arrive early or use roadside parking if available.
Low tide provides the best access to tide pools along the coast.
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