Acadia Mountain: A Family-Friendly Scenic Hike on the Quiet Side of Acadia National Park
Name: Acadia Mountain
Location: Acadia National Park
Distance: Varies, see trail descriptions
Terrain: Granite steps, dirt path, gravel, roots,. rock slabs
Elevation gain: 700 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Pets: Allowed, on-leash
Located on the “quieter side” of Acadia National Park, Acadia Mountain is a moderate, family-friendly hike that provides excellent views of Somes Sound and surrounding mountains. Hikers of all abilities will find this hike challenging, yet rewarding, with its steep ascent, unique forests, and scenic views.
In this blog post, I share everything you need to know before exploring Acadia Mountain in Acadia National Park—including how to access the trailhead, parking information, trail descriptions, the best time to visit, as well as several insider tips and the best nearby eats.
Prepare for Acadia Mountain
Check the weather forecast to ensure safe conditions
Research trail information and conditions
Pack all the Maine hiking essentials, such as water, snacks, and a basic first-aid kit
Wear season-appropriate footwear and clothing
If bringing a pup, be sure to pack their leash and poop bags
Directions and parking information for Acadia Mountain
Driving Directions
The trailhead for Acadia Mountain is located off Route 102 in Mt. Desert, Maine. Click here to get driving directions via Google Maps.
Parking
Parking for Acadia Mountain is on the opposite side of the road of the trailhead and is shared with the St. Sauveur Trail. There are a handful of paved parking spots. There is no crosswalk—so be extra cautious when crossing the road from the parking lot. After climbing a steep set of rock stairs, you will arrive at the trailhead for the St. Sauveur Trail. Take a left and walk for 0.2 miles to get to the Acadia Mountain trailhead.
Restrooms
Restrooms are available—they have composting toilets and no running water, so be sure to bring your own hand sanitizer.
Acadia Mountain Trail Descriptions
Acadia Mountain Trail (1.7 miles, moderate)
The Acadia Mountain trail begins at a four-way trail intersection. Hikers will immediately come to a set of man-made granite steps. After this, the trail steeply ascends up the West side of Acadia Mountain, with scenic views along the way. The trail moves over several granite staircases, dirt path, large rock slabs on the way to the summit.
After summiting, hikers can either turn back and return to the trailhead (2.0 miles total) or add on the Man O’ War Brook Fire Road to make a loop (3.2 miles total). The trail between the Acadia Mountain summit and Man O’ War Brook Fire Road is steep and scenic. Hikers can expect hand-over-foot rock scrambling and beautiful views of Somes Sound.
The Man O’ War Brook Fire Road (0.9 miles, moderate)
The Man O’ War Brook Fire Road is a relatively flat, wide trail that connects Acadia Mountain trail back to the trailhead. It also connects to the Valley Peak trail and the Valley Cove Trail.
Acadia Mountain Viewpoints
In my opinion, the best viewpoints on Acadia Mountain are:
On the ledges both ascending and descending from the summit
At the summit
Insider tips for hiking Acadia Mountain
Acadia Mountain is inside of Acadia National Park—so a park entrance pass is required. You must purchase and display the pass on your dashboard.
The best time(s) to visit: June to September for warm temperatures, early to mid-October for peak foliage.
To avoid crowds, visit while school is in session (September-early June) or consider getting to the trailhead before 8:00a.m.
Parking for this trail is limited, so consider taking the FREE island explorer shuttle instead. Their buses are comfortable, on-time, and have 11 different bus routes on Mount Desert Island.
Best Nearby Eats
Beal’s Lobster Pier (for classic seafood favorites)
Clark Point Cafe (amazing breakfast—their Benedict and breakfast sandwiches are to die for)
Salt Shop (for Gifford’s ice cream and sweet treats)
Leave no Trace
When it comes to enjoying time outdoors, remember the golden rule: Leave No Trace. It’s as simple as picking up after yourself, staying on the trails, and leaving nature just as beautiful as you found it. By practicing Leave No Trace, you help preserve the magic of Maine for future adventurers to enjoy, so everyone can keep enjoying the same beautiful, wild world we love.
Interested in more Acadia guides and tips? You can find them all here.
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With love,
My Maine
