Trail

Wonderland Trail

TrailOPERATIONAL★ 4.8
Coastal rocky shoreline along Wonderland Trail in Acadia National Park, with turquoise water and pine forests under a bright blue sky.

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...

Quick facts

Distance Miles
1.4
Route Type
Out-and-back with a loop at the end
Difficulty Level
Easy Stroll
Elevation Gain Feet
0

Trail profile

Distance Miles
1.4
Route Type
Out-and-back with a loop at the end
Difficulty Level
Easy Stroll
Elevation Gain Feet
0
Estimated Time
30-60 minutes for the hike; 1-2 hours to explore tide pools and coastline
Trail Surface
Primarily a well-maintained gravel fire road, with some rocky sections and forest floor near the end
Trail Features
  • Rocky coastline
  • Tide pools with marine life
  • Views of Duck Islands
  • Cadillac Mountain panorama
Trail Highlights
Rocky coastline and tide pools culminate at the open coastline where seabirds and marine life redeem the effort

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Off Maine Route 102A (Seawall Road), 3.1 miles from the intersection with Route 102. GPS coordinates: 44.233636, -68.320198
Parking Lot Size
Small pull-off or lot
Parking Fill Time
The small parking lot fills quickly, especially on weekends and during peak hours (9 AM-4 PM). Arriving early or late is recommended.
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
No public shuttle to this trailhead; driving only. A separate paid shuttle runs for Cadillac Mountain, not this trail.

Permits & conditions

Permits Required
Yes
Permit Details
A park entrance pass is required May 1 through October 31; purchase online in advance or at the entrance station.
Fees
Varies
Trail Status
Open
Seasonal Closures
Winter conditions may be hazardous; spring mud season

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
0
Water Sources
None on the trail; bring water
Accessibility
Family-friendly path; strollers manageable on most sections

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • Slippery rocks when wet
  • Algae on rocks
  • Tide pooling hazards
  • Limited parking leading to crowding
Hazard Details
Slippery algae on rocks near tidal zones; tide pools require careful footing; parking can fill quickly on weekends
Cell Service
Limited
Crowd Level
High
Peak Crowd Times
Weekends and mid-day
Best Season
Spring through Fall
Best Time To Visit
Arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM to beat crowds; sunrise or late afternoon visits offer solitude and best parking.
Tips Advice
  • 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

More details

Park Area
Acadia National Park, Maine, USA
Trail Markers
Generally well-marked; carry a simple map
Dogs Allowed
Leashed dogs allowed
Biking Allowed
No biking on this trail
Shade Level
Mostly shaded on approach; sun exposure at the coast
Emergency Contacts
911 for emergencies; Acadia National Park rangers available
Map Recommended
1
Snow Dates
Year-round access possible; winter conditions may be hazardous
Mud Season
Spring can be muddy
Bug Season
Bug repellent advised in warmer months
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.
Family Friendly Notes
Excellent for families with young children; strollers workable on most sections
Nearby Facilities
Limited nearby facilities; parking lot small; restrooms not confirmed
Review Summary
Hikers praise the trail for its accessibility and tide pool exploration. Parking is tight and crowds can be heavy, but the marine life encounters along the coast make the effort worthwhile.

Location

Wonderland Trail winds through a sunlit spruce forest as it enters Acadia National Park along a forested path.Wonderland Trail on rocky Acadia coastline: a small dog stands on weathered lichen-covered rocks overlooking tidal pools and the sea.Wonderland Trail overlooks rocky tidal pools along Acadia National Park's coastline with hikers.Wonderland Trail along Acadia's coastal meadow with trees, grasses, and blue Atlantic sky.

Frequently asked questions

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?

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

Is the trail stroller-friendly?

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

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.

Is restrooms available at the trailhead?

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

Schoodic Point

2.5-mile loop: scrambling on granite; quiet coastal payoff.

Beehive Trail

Hard loop with iron rungs and cliff exposure; big payoff at the summit.

Acadia Mountain

Loop hike with granite scrambling; coastal views reward your grit.

Sources

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated February 2026. Report an issue.