Best Hikes in Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is where granite peaks meet the Atlantic Ocean. Tucked along the rugged Maine coast, this beloved park offers a unique blend of mountain and seaside trails. Whether you’re scaling cliffs with iron rungs or strolling along quiet lakes, these are the top hikes in Acadia to add to your adventure list.

1. Beehive Loop Trail

Distance: 1.4 miles loop
Difficulty: Strenuous (exposure and climbing)
Trail Highlights: Iron rungs, cliffside ledges, panoramic ocean views

This adrenaline-pumping loop is one of Acadia’s most iconic hikes. The iron-rung climb up the granite face offers thrilling exposure and incredible views of Sand Beach and the coastline below.

Pro Tip: Not for those with a fear of heights. Go early to avoid traffic jams on the rungs.

2. Precipice Trail

Distance: 1.6 miles loop
Difficulty: Strenuous
Trail Highlights: Vertical climbs, ladders, epic views from Champlain Mountain

Even more intense than the Beehive, Precipice Trail is a steep and technical climb up Champlain Mountain via a series of ladders and metal rungs. It’s the ultimate Acadia thrill hike.

Pro Tip: Closed during peregrine falcon nesting season (usually spring to mid-summer). Check trail status first.

3. Jordan Pond Path

Distance: 3.1 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy
Trail Highlights: Lakeside walk, views of the Bubbles, family-friendly

This serene loop circles the pristine Jordan Pond with views of the North and South Bubble mountains. It’s mostly flat and perfect for a peaceful, scenic stroll.

Pro Tip: Grab popovers at the Jordan Pond House afterward—it’s a tradition.

4. Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail

Distance: 7.1 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Highlights: Summit Acadia’s highest peak, sweeping views

This longer trail takes you up to the summit of Cadillac Mountain—the first place to see the sunrise in the U.S. The South Ridge approach is quieter and more scenic than driving.

Pro Tip: Watch your footing on granite slabs after rain—they get slick.

5. Bubble Rock Trail

Distance: 1 mile round trip
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Trail Highlights: Giant perched boulder, panoramic views

This short trail to South Bubble’s summit leads you to a gravity-defying boulder and one of the best views of Jordan Pond. A great option for kids and photo ops.

Pro Tip: Sunrise or sunset here is magical.

Trail Tips for Acadia

Rock can be slippery—use hiking shoes with grip
Fog rolls in quickly; don’t rely solely on views
Check for nesting closures in spring

Recommended Gear

Ultralight trekking poles (we recommend these ones)
Daypack + snacks
Grippy hiking shoes
Lightweight layers (coastal breezes)
Reusable water bottle

Need East Coast adventure gear? Shop our Acadia Collection for shirts, outerwear, and accessories inspired by Maine’s rugged beauty.

Best Time to Visit

Summer: Peak season, warm and sunny
Fall: Colorful foliage, fewer crowds
Spring: Quieter, but some trail closures
Winter: Limited access, great for solitude

Final Thoughts

From epic cliffside climbs to gentle lakeside strolls, Acadia delivers the full range of hiking experiences. Come for the views, stay for the salty air and coastal charm.

Planning a trip to Maine’s most popular park? Don’t forget to gear up with our Acadia-inspired trailwear and accessories → Shop Now