From glacier-formed mountains, and crystalline blue waters, to lush pine tree forests, Acadia, Maine, is an idyllic place to connect with nature. With over 155-miles of hiking trails in Acadia National Park and even more just outside of the park, it’s a premier destination for hikers who want to explore the natural beauty of the Pine Tree State. Here’s our list of the top Acadia National Park trails and nearby trails outside of the park.
Best Hikes in Acadia National Park
Jesup Path
Distance: 1-mile straightaway out-and-back
Estimated time: 20 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Known as Acadia’s most beautiful easy walk, Jesup Path is an accessible hike perfect for any time of year. Start at the Sieur de Monts Nature Center where you’ll turn right at the Sieur De Monts Spring and follow the wooden boardwalk for a leisurely hike through the woods and meadows of Acadia National Park. Much of the path follows a mostly flat boardwalk through a marshy white birch forest with lookout points where you can pause and soak in your surroundings. You may spot barred owls, deer, chipmunks, and a wide assortment of bird species along the way. For a slightly longer loop trail, you can continue with the Hemlock Path for an additional half-mile hike.
Jordan Pond Path
Distance: 3.3-mile loop
Estimated time: 1-hour
Difficulty: Moderate
Following the shoreline of Jordan Pond, this trail is the perfect way to get the lay of the land. Considered one of the best hikes in Acadia National Park, Jordan Pond Trail traces the pond’s tranquil waters and provides iconic views of glacier-sculpted mountains paired with the fresh scent of spruce and pine. Be sure to have your camera ready for this hike! Afterward, treat yourself by continuing the late-1800s tradition of enjoying afternoon tea and popovers, a New England favorite, on the lawn of The Jordan Pond House while soaking in the spectacular views.
South Bubble Trail and Bubble Rock
Distance: 1.7-mile loop
Estimated time: 1-hour
Difficulty: Moderate
If it’s your first visit to Acadia National Park, the South Bubble Trail is a must visit. Hiking to the South Bubble Summit offers one of the most famous views in Acadia as well as a popular photo spot: Bubble Rock, a large boulder that was carried by glaciers and perched on a cliff’s edge.
For a longer day hike, you can add South Bubble Trail to your loop hike around the Jordan Pond Path for a 2-4 hour hiking adventure taking in some of the top sights in Acadia. Make sure to pick up an Acadia hiking trail map from the Acadia National Park Visitor Center so you can see the full trail system and pick a path that is the perfect distance for your visit.
Best Hikes Outside of Acadia National Park
Moxie Falls Trail
Distance: 1.7-mile out-and-back
Estimated time: 1 hour
Difficulty: Easy
For a spectacular waterfall hike, head to West Forks about 2.5-hours from Under Canvas, to explore the Moxie Falls Trail. Moxie Falls is a towering 90-foot waterfall and is one of the tallest in the state. All ages and skill levels will enjoy the short walk through the woods to the falls cascading over a rock cliff. If you visit during the summer, cool off in the swimming hole at the base of the waterfall. Moxie Falls is a beautiful place to visit any time of year.
Mount Katahdin and Knife’s Edge Trail
Distance: 10.9-mile loop
Estimated time: 3+ hours
Difficulty: Hard
Feel on top of the world at the summit of the tallest mountain in Maine, Katahdin for a challenging and rewarding hike. The mighty Mount Katahdin hike leads to the northernmost point of the Appalachian Trail. Hikers will make their way through enchanting, lush woodlands and shimmy along Mount Katahdin Knife’s Edge, a narrow ridge that offers a bird’s eye view of the expansive wilderness.
From hiking and exploring around Acadia National Park to downtown Bar Harbor, lobstering, and stargazing, there are plenty of things to do in Acadia National Park and the surrounding area for an unforgettable trip. If you’re looking for places to stay near Acadia National Park, look no further than Under Canvas Acadia. With upscale waterfront accommodations along the Maine coastline, just 30-minutes from Acadia National Park, Under Canvas is the perfect base camp for an adventure-filled New England getaway.