Hiking near Bar Harbor: 93 trails

A half-day outing takes a little planning.

Think about the way back, the breaks and the parking.

Check access

Opening hours, parking and access conditions can change with the season.

Check the weather at the destination

Changing weather can make some trails harder.

Choose your route

Match the length and the level to your group and the time you have.

Through the seasons

Spring

Spring in Bar Harbor brings mild temperatures and muddy trail conditions as snow melts throughout March and April.

The best hiking opportunities are found in nearby Acadia National Park, where trails like Ocean Path and Great Head Trail offer stunning coastal views as wildflowers begin to bloom. Pack waterproof boots and layers, as weather can be unpredictable with temperatures ranging from 40-60°F.

Summer

Summer is peak hiking season around Bar Harbor, with warm temperatures in the 70s and excellent trail conditions in Acadia National Park.

Popular hikes include the Precipice Trail, Cadillac Mountain, and Jordan Pond Path, though expect crowds especially on weekends. Start early morning hikes to avoid peak tourist hours and bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Fall

Fall transforms Bar Harbor into a spectacular hiking destination with brilliant foliage peaking in early October and comfortable temperatures in the 50s-60s.

Acadia's trails like Beehive Trail and Bar Island offer incredible autumn colors against the rocky coastline. Pack warm layers as temperatures can drop quickly, especially near the ocean, and be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Winter

Winter hiking near Bar Harbor requires serious preparation, with temperatures often below freezing and snow covering most trails from December through March.

Coastal paths like Ocean Path may remain partially accessible, but inland trails in Acadia typically require snowshoes or microspikes. Dress in multiple layers, bring extra food and water, and check park conditions as some areas may be closed due to ice.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I go hiking near Bar Harbor?

The page lists 93 trails. The closest is Bar Island Land Bridge (≈ 2 min drive from downtown), the farthest Cobscook Bay State Park (≈ 1 hr 58 min). Drive times are estimated as the crow flies.

How long does it take to drive to the trails near Bar Harbor?

46 trails are within ≈ 30 min of driving, 57 within ≈ 1 hr, and all of them within ≈ 2 hr. These are estimates from downtown.

What are the most popular trails near Bar Harbor?

Among the trails on this page, the most viewed on Let's Go Play Outside are Chick Hill Hike Parking, Mt. Battie Trailhead and Acadia National Park.

How long are the trails near Bar Harbor?

92 listings give a length, from 0.8 km (Birch Point Beach State Park) to 140 km (Downeast Sunrise Trail Atv/multi Use Recreation). The other 1 do not say.

Are there easy hikes near Bar Harbor?

Yes: among the trails on this page that give a level, 52 easy, 31 moderate and 3 hard. The closest easy ones: Bar Island Land Bridge, Kebo Mountain Trail and Witch Hole Pond.

Can I hike with my dog near Bar Harbor?

38 listings say dogs are allowed and 2 say they are not. For the other 53, the rule is not confirmed: check the trail page before you go.

Hiking near Bar Harbor

Hiking ideas near Bar Harbor

Trails near Bar Harbor

A half-day outing takes a little planning.

No car?

Through the seasons

Frequently asked questions

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