Parking is limited and fills quickly on weekends; arrive early or late to secure a spot.

Wonderland Trail Hike Profile & Guide

Q: Is the trail stroller-friendly?

Yes, most of the route is suitable for strollers; expect some rocky sections near the end.

Q: Do I need a permit to hike Wonderland Trail?

A park entrance pass is required May 1–October 31; purchase online or at the entrance.

Q: Is restrooms available at the trailhead?

Restrooms availability is not guaranteed; plan accordingly or use facilities at the park entrance.

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Overview

About This Trail

Trail mission: Wonderland Trail is an easy, family-friendly out-and-back with a loop at the end, totaling 1.4 miles. The route runs on a well-kept gravel road with some rocky patches and forest floor toward the coastline; plan 30-60 minutes for the hike and 1-2 hours to explore tide pools and coast. Expect a shaded approach that opens to a rocky coast where tide pools host hermit crabs, snails, and starfish. The payoff is a gentle, accessible walk that delivers coastal life and wildlife; stay...

Highlights

Difficulty Level

Easy Stroll

Trail Highlights

Rocky coastline and tide pools culminate at the open coastline where seabirds and marine life redeem the effort

Insider Tips

Go counter-clockwise on the loop at the end for varied views. Arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM to dodge crowds and secure parking. Sunrise visits offer solitude; bring a tide chart app for tide pooling. Keep kids close on rocky sections.

Best Season to Hike

Spring through Fall

Hiking Tips

Carry 2 liters of water minimum
Wear sturdy closed-toe shoes with traction for slippery rocks
Tide chart app helps time tide pooling
Parking is limited; plan to arrive early or late
Keep kids within view near rocky edges

Family Info

Excellent for families with young children; strollers workable on most sections

Details

Trail Specifications

Distance: 1.4 miles

Duration: 30-60 minutes for the hike; 1-2 hours to explore tide pools and coastline

Difficulty: Easy Stroll

Route Type: Out-and-back with a loop at the end

Surface: Primarily a well-maintained gravel fire road, with some rocky sections and forest floor near the end

Getting There

Trailhead: Off Maine Route 102A (Seawall Road), 3.1 miles from the intersection with Route 102. GPS coordinates: 44.233636, -68.320198

Parking: Small pull-off or lot

Fills Up: The small parking lot fills quickly, especially on weekends and during peak hours (9 AM-4 PM). Arriving early or late is recommended.

Requirements

Permit Required

A park entrance pass is required May 1 through October 31; purchase online in advance or at the entrance station.

Fees: Varies

Shuttle Available

No public shuttle to this trailhead; driving only. A separate paid shuttle runs for Cadillac Mountain, not this trail.

Trail Rules

Dogs: Leashed dogs allowed

Biking: No biking on this trail

Trail Markers: Generally well-marked; carry a simple map

Map/GPS recommended

View on AllTrails

Trail Features

Conditions & Safety

Water: None on the trail; bring water

Shade: Mostly shaded on approach; sun exposure at the coast

Cell Service: Limited

Hazards:

Slippery algae on rocks near tidal zones; tide pools require careful footing; parking can fill quickly on weekends

Emergency: 911 for emergencies; Acadia National Park rangers available

Crowd Info

Typical Crowds: High

Peak Times: Weekends and mid-day

Accessibility & Family

Accessibility:

Family-friendly path; strollers manageable on most sections

Family Notes:

Excellent for families with young children; strollers workable on most sections

Nearby Facilities

Limited nearby facilities; parking lot small; restrooms not confirmed

FAQs

Are bears a threat on Wonderland Trail?

Bears exist in Acadia; encounters are unlikely. Make noise, store food properly, and keep children close.

Is parking easy?

Is the trail stroller-friendly?

Do I need a permit to hike Wonderland Trail?

Is restrooms available at the trailhead?

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Wonderland Trail