Few hikes capture the spirit of Acadia National Park quite like the Beehive Trail. In summer, the Gulf of Maine glitters below as coastal breezes roll in from the Atlantic. Come fall, the trail rewards hikers with vibrant fall colors across the mountainscape. The Beehive Trail has earned a reputation as one of the most exhilarating and talked-about hikes in Acadia National Park, and for many visitors, it’s a must-do experience.
Sometimes referred to as ‘Maine’s via ferrata,’ this route features iron rungs, ladders, exposed granite staircases, and narrow ledges that climb steeply above Sand Beach. It’s similar to the nearby Precipice Trail but slightly less intense, making it a popular choice for adventurous hikers looking for a challenge without committing to Acadia’s most extreme hike.
Here’s everything you need to know about hiking the Beehive Trail in Acadia National Park.
Getting to the Beehive Trail
The Beehive Trailhead is located along Park Loop Road near Sand Beach, one of the most scenic (and busiest) areas of Acadia National Park. Most hikers park at either the Beehive Trailhead lot or the Sand Beach Parking Area directly across the road. During peak summer and fall weekends, both lots often fill early in the morning.
If parking lots are full, it’s possible to find roadside parking along the right side of Park Loop Road. Arriving early (before sunrise) not only improves your chances of parking but also allows you to enjoy the trail with fewer crowds and softer morning light.
The loop begins at the Sand Beach Parking Lot, with the trailhead clearly marked across Park Loop Road.
Beehive Loop Trail Information
Distance: 1.6 miles
Difficulty: Hard
Elevation Gain: 508 feet
Despite its short distance, the Beehive Loop packs a lot into just over a mile and a half. The combination of steep ascents, exposed sections, and ladder climbing makes it one of Acadia’s most popular hikes.
The Beehive Trail can only be hiked in the counterclockwise direction so that hikers go up the iron rungs, rather than down them.
What to Expect on the Beehive Trail
From the trailhead, you’ll follow the relatively flat Bowl Trail for a short stretch before branching right onto the Beehive Trail.
Once you turn onto the Beehive Trail, the nature of the hike changes. You’ll begin scrambling over rocks, climbing vertical ladders, and ascending steep granite staircases carved directly into the mountainside. In several sections, iron rungs are embedded into the rock face, offering hand- and footholds as you climb higher above Sand Beach.
Because of the exposure, the Beehive Trail is not recommended when it’s wet or icy. Rain can make surfaces slick, and strong winds can amplify the feeling of exposure. Hikers with a fear of heights may find certain sections uncomfortable. That said, the most technical portions are relatively short, and once you pass the rungs and ladders, the rest of the hike is smooth sailing.
Views from the Beehive Summit
Near the top of the Beehive Trail is one of the most popular sunrise spots in Acadia. From the summit, you can admire coastal views across the Gulf of Maine. From the backside of the trail, you can see Champlain Mountain to the north and Cadillac Mountain to the west.
Completing the Beehive Loop
After soaking in the views from The Beehive, continue along the trail toward The Bowl. You’ll see the Bowl Connector Trail on the left, which you can take to shorten the route, but you won’t be able to see Bowl Pond this way.
After checking out the pond, return to the Sand Beach parking area via the Bowl Trail. This section is a gradual descent through forested terrain and does not require any scrambling or climbing, making for a relaxed end to the hike.
Most hikers complete the Beehive Loop in 1 to 3 hours, depending on pace, crowd levels, and how long they linger at viewpoints. Single-file sections can create waits during busy times.
Best Time to Hike the Beehive Trail
The Beehive Trail is open in spring, summer, and fall, unless otherwise closed by the National Park Service due to weather or other conditions. Summer offers long daylight hours, warm weather, and refreshing coastal breezes, while autumn is a spectacular time to tackle this hike thanks to Acadia’s fall colors.
Tips for Hiking the Beehive
- Check weather and trail conditions. Don’t hike if it’s raining to avoid slippery surfaces.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes and layers. Good traction is key, and layers are needed for coastal weather.
- Start early. Begin before or at sunrise to beat the crowds and capture breathtaking photos.
- Pick up an America The Beautiful pass. This gives you access to Acadia and all U.S. national parks for a year.
- Use trekking poles wisely. They help on rocky terrain but must be collapsed and stowed during iron-rung sections.
Alternative Hikes to the Beehive Trail
If you’re looking for a more approachable but still rewarding alternative to the Beehive or Precipice Trails, consider the Beech Cliffs Trail. Located at Echo Lake on Mount Desert Island, Beech Cliffs is a fun, similar hidden-gem hike. It’s an easier option, with four iron-rung sections, without the crowds and dramatic drop-offs.
The 1.6-mile round-trip hike gains 547 feet and is considered moderate, making it a great introduction to a via ferrata-style trail for adventurous hikers.
For even more trail inspiration, explore our guide to the best hiking in Acadia National Park.
Guided Hiking in Acadia National Park
For a deeper connection to the park, consider setting out with an expert guide. Guided hikes explore iconic spots in Acadia, like Thunder Hole and Jordan Pond, while also venturing onto quieter trails away from the crowds. Options range from private hikes to hiking-and-biking combinations which take the historic carriage roads.
More Things to Do in Acadia
Beyond hiking, Acadia offers a wide range of outdoor adventures. Drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain for sunrise, explore the historic carriage roads by bike, paddle along the coastline, learn about lobstering, take a scenic coastline cruise, or spend a relaxing afternoon at Echo Lake Beach.
For a full list of ideas, see this guide on what to do during your visit to Acadia.
Where to Stay Near Acadia National Park
Experience the beauty of coastal Maine with upscale safari-inspired glamping at Under Canvas Acadia, set on 100 acres of waterfront property near Acadia National Park. From here, you can explore charming Bar Harbor, hike Acadia’s trails, and unwind along 1,200 feet of shoreline right at camp. As night falls, gather around the campfire for nightly s’mores and stargazing beneath a sky filled with stars.