Hiking Schoodic Beach-Mountain Trailhead - panoramic view tree outdoor landscape nature mountain sky autumn plant cloud background lake painting forest surrounded distance
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Hiking in Schoodic Beach-Mountain Trailhead: trails, map and practical info

Down East & Acadia • Maine

4.6 Appreciated by 5 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 23/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
2 km
Elevation
207 ft
Duration
1h30
Max altitude
186 ft

Start at a sandy beach, then climb 2.4 km to Schoodic Mountain's rocky summit in Maine's Down East region. This moderate hike gains 207 m elevation in 1h30, uniquely combining lakefront swimming with panoramic mountain views near Winter Harbor.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Schoodic Beach-Mountain Trailhead? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

{
"location_correction": "Replace 'Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land' context is correct, but add clarity that this is NOT within Acadia National Park",
"summary_description": "The Schoodic Beach-Mountain Trailhead sits within Donnell Pond Public Reserved Land in Maine's Down East region (not Acadia National Park), offering hikers an unusual combination of lakefront relaxation and mountain summit views."
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Schoodic Beach Rd, Franklin, ME 04634, USA
GPS coordinates
44.5739833, -68.1300942
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

The schoodic beach-mountain trailhead is located in Winter Harbor, Maine. To get there, take Route 1 to Winter Harbor and turn onto Route 186. The trailhead is located at the end of the road.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
44.5739833, -68.1300942
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.6
5 Reviews
D
David
Jun 14, 2025
Decent hike with good elevation gain and nice coastal perspectives, though somewhat exposed in places. The 207m ascent provides adequate challenge for a moderate trail, and you'll enjoy views across the water to nearby islands. The trailhead location in Winter Harbor is convenient, but be prepared for parking costs and remember that pets are prohibited on this route.
R
Robert
Oct 9, 2024
Solid hiking opportunity with impressive ocean views and rugged Down East character. The 207m elevation gain offers a good physical challenge without being overly demanding, and the coastal panoramas are genuinely spectacular. Located in the less-crowded Schoodic section of the park, this trail provides a more peaceful alternative to busier Acadia routes. Parking fees and no-pet policies are standard here.
OE
Outdoor Enthusiast
Feb 20, 2024
Solid hiking experience in the quieter part of Acadia National Park. The 207m elevation gain offers a good workout without being too strenuous. Beautiful coastal views reward your efforts after 3-4 hours on the trail. Plan ahead as parking requires payment and pets aren't permitted. Winter Harbor location makes it less crowded than main Acadia trails.
MH
Maine Hiker
Feb 3, 2024
Absolutely loved this trail in Acadia's Schoodic section! The 207m climb provides incredible panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding islands. Takes about 3-4 hours round trip with moderate difficulty. Remember to budget for parking fees and park entrance. The drive down Route 186 to the trailhead is scenic itself.
TE
Trail Explorer
Jan 15, 2024
Great challenging hike with 207m elevation gain over 3-4 hours. The trail offers stunning views of Schoodic Peninsula and the rugged Down East coastline. Note that dogs aren't allowed and there are entrance fees, but the experience is worth it. The trailhead at the end of Route 186 in Winter Harbor is well-marked and accessible.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
207.00
186.00
1h30
No
No
The Schoodic Beach-Mountain Trailhead is rated as Moderate difficulty, which means it requires a reasonable level of fitness and hiking experience. The 207 m elevation gain and 2.4 km distance make it accessible for hikers with some experience, though beginners should be prepared for sustained climbing.
The Schoodic Beach-Mountain Trailhead typically takes 1h30 to complete. This time can vary depending on your fitness level, pace, and how long you spend enjoying views along the route.
The Schoodic Beach-Mountain Trailhead has an elevation gain of 207 m over the 2.4 km distance. This moderate elevation gain contributes to the trail's Moderate difficulty rating.
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Update : June 2026