Hike Great Head Trail
Bar Harbor, Maine
Details
Distance
1.7 miles
Elevation Gain
150 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Danielle Tourigny
This hike is an easy, family friendly way to see the beautiful coastline of Acadia National Park, and there is a spacious parking lot at Sand Beach where the trail begins!
The trail begins at the far end of Sand Beach with granite steps. Taking a right at the top of the steps leads to an open ledge ascent that provide excellent views of Sand Beach and The Beehive. The trail continues along the side of the cliff with incredible views of the coastline. The trail is rocky with uneven footing, and there are many ups and downs to the trail. It is a gradual grade to reach the highest point at 145 feet above sea level. At this point you can see the ruins of a 1915 tea house. The trail begins to head away from the shore to descend through the forest. A cedar post marks a junction in the trail. For a shorter loop (1.3 miles) , take the trail to the left. It climbs steeply before leveling out and leading back to Sand Beach. For a longer loop (1.9 miles) continue straight. The trail finally heads back toward the ocean with occasional, but beautiful views. At the next junction, turn left for a easy walk back to the top of the steps where the hike began. Descend the steps to Sand Beach to complete the hike at the same place you started!
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Hike the Great Head Trail in Acadia NP
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