This spectacular 3-mile loop near Bar Harbor includes a moderate climb to the 525-foot summit of Gorham Mountain with sweeping views of the coastline and Sand Beach. The second half of the loop is relatively flat, beginning at Sand Beach and following the Ocean Path all the way to Thunder Hole before returning to the trailhead. This hike is dog-friendly (on-leash) and although the first half involves a steady climb, you could always skip that section and opt for the easy Ocean Path walk if you're looking for a gentler hike.
The large parking lot for this trail is located off the Park Loop Road in Bar Harbor. Acadia National Park does charge a fee to enter. For more information, visit: https://www.nps.gov/acad/planyourvisit/fees.htm
From the trailhead, you will begin by following a stream bed up the South Ridge of Gorham Mountain. There is a small amount of scrambling and cardio climbing on the ascent, but I would still rate this hike as moderate. If you visit during blueberry season, these small but mighty berries that line the trail will fuel your hike. At just over 1/2 mile up, you will reach views of Sand Beach and Newport Cove, just before reaching the summit of the mountain.
At around 1.5 miles, you will connect with the Bowl Trail which will lead you to the Park Loop Road and Sand Beach. From here, it's a nice easy trail called the Ocean Path. This trail has endless spurs leading down to the rocky coastline...there's so much to explore and you could really take your time and make a day of it!
At around 2.5 miles, you will reach the granite staircase leading down to Thunder Hole where giant waves crash into a tight chamber between high rock walls. There is a crosswalk leading from the parking lot for this impressive landmark directly to it, so it's hard to miss. This can be a crowded destination, so it's best to visit early in the morning or closer to sunset.
Just beyond Thunder Hole, you'll reach views of Monument Cove and Otter Cliffs.
Just beyond this sweet spot, you'll come to a large boulder marking the trailhead for the Gorham Mountain Trail. Cross the Park Loop Road to return to the trailhead parking lot. Here is the All Trails link for the full Gorham Mountain Loop. If you'd prefer the shorter Ocean Path Trail, find that here.
If you're looking for more stunning hikes in Bar Harbor, a few of my favorites are the Penobscot Mountain Loop, the Beech Mountain/Beech Cliff Trails, and the Beech Mountain South Ridge Loop. Reach out with questions and enjoy Maine's National Park!
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