Here’s a big surprise that you probably would never expect (she said sarcastically): we love (actually, prefer) going to Acadia National Park during the winter, when there are no crowds, traffic, heat, or pesky bugs! In my very, very biased opinion, I would daresay it is the MOST beautiful season that the park has! It truly is magical, because everything is lighter trafficked and it’s one of those experiences that not a lot of people have had.

I bet that most of you have entered and driven through Acadia National Park in your car. What if I told you I have traveled all over the park loop road using my ski’s and snowshoes? Jealous yet? All you have to do is layer up and visit during the winter, when they don’t plow the park loop road. I’ll be creating a whole other blog post on winter activities at Acadia National Park, so keep checking back for that.

There are a few different options for accessing Gorham Mountain in the winter. If you visit during either early or late winter, when there has only been dustings of snow, you can whip right around the park loop road and right into the parking lot. If you want to be a tad more adventurous, try parking near the eastern-most park entrance (right near schooner head) and skiing or snowshoeing in (when there has been an adequate amount of snowfall).

This trail begins with a steady climb and gradually becomes more rugged. When climbing in the Winter, you may not get far without a pair of yaktrax, due to the good amount of ice that will be cascading down the trail and rocks. Early in the ascent, the trail splits off to the right to the Gorham Mountain Cadillac Cliffs Trail, but I would recommend staying on the trail on the left.

Don’t be fooled by the false summit that offers views of Otter Point, Otter Cliff, Baker Island, and the Cranberry Islands. However, I do recommend that you pause for a few minutes to take in the sights. Not long after that, the actual summit provides views of The Beehive, Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, and the picturesque ocean. There is also an option to continue towards The Beehive from the summit, which is a great way to extend the hike in the summer when conditions are not icy or snowy.

All in all, this family-friendly hike checks all the boxes: not too steep or lengthy, amazing views, and dogs are allowed. Happy hiking, friends!

Pro Tip: When hiking this trail in the winter, wear a long jacket and durable hiking pants so you can embrace your inner child and slideeeeee down the trail

Whats your favorite hike in Acadia? Comment below!