Acadia National Park Mountain

Acadia National Park, located along the coast of Maine, is famous for its dramatic landscapes, where the mountains meet the sea. The park boasts a variety of peaks, each offering unique experiences for hikers, from stunning panoramic views to serene forest trails. Acadia’s mountains range in height from the towering Cadillac Mountain to smaller but equally picturesque summits like Beehive and Kebo. Here’s a detailed guide to exploring these peaks, ranked by elevation, along with information about the hiking trails and highlights of each mountain.

1. Cadillac Mountain (Green) – 1,530 feet

Cadillac Mountain is the tallest peak on the eastern coast of the United States, making it one of Acadia's most iconic landmarks. Its summit is the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise for much of the year, and it offers breathtaking views of Frenchman Bay, the Porcupine Islands, and the Atlantic Ocean. The Cadillac Mountain Summit Road provides access for drivers, while hikers can take the North Ridge Trail or South Ridge Trail for a more immersive experience. The mountain’s rocky terrain and vibrant wildflowers make it a photographer’s paradise, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Cadillac Mountain

2. Sargent Mountain – 1,373 feet

Sargent Mountain, the second-highest peak in Acadia, is known for its quiet, less-traveled trails. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. The Sargent South Ridge Trail and the Giant Slide Trail lead hikers through peaceful forests and open granite ridges to the summit. A notable feature of Sargent Mountain is the nearby Sargent Mountain Pond, where hikers can take a refreshing break.

3. Dorr Mountain (Flying Squadron) – 1,270 feet

Named after George B. Dorr, a key figure in the creation of Acadia National Park, Dorr Mountain provides a challenging and scenic hike. The Dorr Mountain Ladder Trail is an adventurous climb, featuring iron rungs and steep ascents, while the South Ridge Trail offers a less rigorous option. Dorr Mountain is often overshadowed by Cadillac but offers equally stunning views of the coast and the park’s interior.

4. Pemetic Mountain – 1,248 feet

Pemetic Mountain is popular among hikers for its varied terrain and panoramic views. The South Ridge Trail takes you through a mix of forest and exposed granite, leading to the summit, where you’ll enjoy views of Jordan Pond, the Bubbles, and the surrounding landscape. In the fall, the vibrant foliage adds a magical touch to the hike.

5. Penobscot Mountain (Jordan) – 1,194 feet

Penobscot Mountain is another less crowded gem of Acadia. The Jordan Cliffs Trail offers a challenging and scenic ascent, providing views of Jordan Pond and the surrounding mountains. The summit rewards hikers with a tranquil atmosphere and expansive views of Mount Desert Island.

6. Bernard Mountain (Western) – 1,071 feet

Located on the quieter western side of Mount Desert Island, Bernard Mountain offers solitude and serenity. The Bernard Mountain Trail is a moderately strenuous hike, leading to panoramic views of Long Pond and the surrounding wilderness. Bernard Mountain is an excellent choice for those looking to escape the crowds.

7. Champlain Mountain (Newport) – 1,058 feet

Champlain Mountain’s Precipice Trail is one of the most thrilling hikes in Acadia, featuring iron rungs, ladders, and steep cliffs. This route is not for the faint-hearted but offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline and Frenchman Bay. For a less intense option, hikers can take the Beachcroft Path to enjoy the same stunning vistas from a more gradual ascent.

8. Gilmore Mountain – 1,036 feet

Gilmore Mountain, though not as well-known as Cadillac or Champlain, offers a peaceful hiking experience. Its trails wind through quiet forests and lead to views of the surrounding peaks. Gilmore is perfect for those seeking a more secluded adventure in Acadia.

9. Bald Peak – 974 feet

Bald Peak provides a shorter, yet rewarding, hike with incredible views. Located near Parkman Mountain, the trail to Bald Peak is known for its rugged terrain and spectacular views of Somes Sound. This area is perfect for those looking to enjoy Acadia’s natural beauty without committing to a longer, strenuous hike.

10. Mansell Mountain (Western) – 949 feet

Mansell Mountain is another gem on the western side of Mount Desert Island. It offers a moderate hike with views of Seal Cove Pond and the surrounding forests. The trails here are less crowded, making Mansell a great spot for a peaceful retreat into nature.

11. Cedar Swamp Mountain – 942 feet

Cedar Swamp Mountain, located near Mansell and Bernard Mountains, offers a quiet hiking experience through dense forests. Its summit provides scenic views of the nearby mountains and valleys. The mountain’s secluded trails are ideal for those looking to explore Acadia’s wilder side.

12. Parkman Mountain (Little Brown) – 941 feet

Parkman Mountain offers a challenging but rewarding hike, with views of the surrounding peaks and Somes Sound. The Parkman Mountain Trail is known for its rugged terrain and beautiful vistas, making it a favorite among seasoned hikers.

13. North Bubble – 872 feet

The Bubbles are two small but iconic peaks overlooking Jordan Pond. North Bubble is the taller of the two and offers one of the most photographed views in Acadia—looking down over the pond, with Bubble Rock, a large glacial erratic, perched precariously on the edge. The hike to North Bubble is short but steep, offering a fantastic reward at the summit.

14. Norumbega Mountain (Brown) – 852 feet

Norumbega Mountain offers a peaceful hike with excellent views of Somes Sound. The Goat Trail provides a moderately challenging ascent, and the summit is a perfect spot for those seeking solitude and scenic beauty.

15. Beech Mountain – 839 feet

Beech Mountain offers both forested and open granite trails, leading to a fire tower at the summit that provides panoramic views of Echo Lake and the surrounding area. The Beech Mountain Trail is family-friendly and provides one of the best views of Acadia’s western side.

16. South Bubble – 766 feet

South Bubble, the smaller of the two Bubble mountains, offers a shorter and easier hike than North Bubble. Its summit provides lovely views of Jordan Pond and the surrounding peaks. This hike is ideal for families or those looking for a quick but scenic trek.

17. Huguenot Head (Picket) – 731 feet

Huguenot Head is a smaller peak located near Champlain Mountain. It offers an easy hike with nice views of the surrounding area, making it a good option for a less strenuous day in Acadia.

18. The Triad – 698 feet

The Triad is a lesser-known peak in Acadia, offering a peaceful hike through forested terrain. The summit provides lovely views, especially in the fall when the foliage adds vibrant color to the landscape.

19. Acadia Mountain (Robinson) – 681 feet

Acadia Mountain, located on the western side of Mount Desert Island, offers a short but steep hike with spectacular views of Somes Sound. The Acadia Mountain Trail is popular for its combination of mountain and ocean vistas, making it one of the park’s must-see hikes.

20. St. Sauveur Mountain (Dog) – 679 feet

St. Sauveur Mountain offers a moderate hike with views of the western side of Mount Desert Island. The trail provides a quiet and scenic route, perfect for those seeking a more secluded experience.

21. Conners Nubble – 588 feet

Conners Nubble is a small peak located near Eagle Lake. The hike is short but offers great views of the lake and surrounding forests. It’s a perfect choice for a quick, scenic hike in Acadia.

22. Day Mountain – 580 feet

Day Mountain is a family-friendly peak that offers a gentle hike with rewarding views of the Atlantic Ocean and Seal Harbor. The Carriage Road that winds around the mountain makes it accessible for both hikers and cyclists.

23. Gorham Mountain – 525 feet

Gorham Mountain offers one of the best coastal hikes in Acadia. The Gorham Mountain Trail provides stunning views of Sand Beach, Great Head, and the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a relatively easy hike, making it accessible for all ages.

24. The Beehive – 520 feet

The Beehive is a smaller peak but is famous for its steep and exhilarating trail. The Beehive Trail features iron rungs and ladders, offering an adventurous climb and sweeping ocean views. This trail is not for those afraid of heights but is a favorite for thrill-seekers.

25. Kebo Mountain – 407 feet

Kebo Mountain offers a short and easy hike near Bar Harbor. It provides nice views of the surrounding area and is a good option for those looking for a quick outdoor escape.

26. Flying Mountain – 284 feet

Flying Mountain is one of the shortest peaks in Acadia but offers beautiful views of Somes Sound and the surrounding islands. The hike is short and family-friendly, making it a great option for a leisurely day in the park.