Best Hikes in Acadia National Park - For Families
Last summer, our family spent a week on the coast of Maine. One of the highlights of the trip was our time exploring some of the difficult and the best hikes in Acadia National Park. Nestled on Maine’s rugged coast, this park is straight out of a storybook—think granite mountains, sparkling lakes, lush forests, and jaw-dropping coastal views. Here are a few facts about Acadia National Park:
Acadia National Park Views
First National Park East of the Mississippi: Acadia was the first national park established east of the Mississippi River, officially created in 1919.
Cadillac Mountain Sunrise: From October to March, Cadillac Mountain is the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise—a must-see if you’re an early riser!
Diverse Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, beavers, and more than 300 species of birds.
Historic Carriage Roads: John D. Rockefeller Jr. helped build 45 miles of scenic carriage roads in the park, perfect for walking, biking, and horseback riding.
Popovers at Jordan Pond House: A visit to Acadia isn’t complete without stopping at the Jordan Pond House for tea and their famous popovers—a tradition dating back to the late 1800s.
By far, the most magical part of the park is the peaceful trails that wind along the ocean, beaches and cliffs! If you are planning on visiting, we want you to have a list of easy hikes in Acadia National Park to enjoy with families (and maybe a few tougher ones for the adventurous!).
Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain
No trip to Acadia is complete without heading up and seeing the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain! Heads up though—you’ll need a reservation to drive up but be prepared for early morning fog. If you hit the jackpot with clear weather, the summit views are incredible. Pro tip: get there early to avoid the crowds. And once you’re at the top, check out the Cadillac Summit Loop Trail, a super easy 0.5-mile walk that gives you 360-degree views of the park and ocean. It’s a great way to stretch your legs and soak in those epic views.
2. Ocean Path at Sand Beach:
Trail at Sand Beach, Acadia National Park
If you’re looking for an easy, scenic walk, Ocean Path is perfect. It’s a 4.5-mile round trip along the coast, starting at Sand Beach and ending near Otter Cliff. It is a one way, so be prepared to leave a car near Otter Cliff. We love stopping to take in the views or snap a few family photos along the way. The gentle terrain makes it doable for all ages.
3. Jordan Pond Path
This flat, easy 3.3-mile loop around Jordan Pond is a family favorite. The views of the water and the Bubbles (two small mountains) are pretty spectacular. Plus, you can reward yourself with popovers and tea at the Jordan Pond House afterward—a must-do in Acadia!
4. Wonderland Trail
This one’s great for little kids or anyone who wants a laid-back coastal walk. It’s only 1.4 miles round trip (about a 30-60 min walk) and leads you through a pretty forest to a rocky shoreline. The tide pools are fun to explore—we always end up spending way more time here than we plan!
5. Great Head Trail
Cliffs near Great Head Trail at Acadia National Park
This trail is a hidden gem and might be a bit more difficult but worth every minute of the adventure! You will have to take the 50-minute drive to the other side of the park (which the drive is amazing just by itself). This side of the park has considerably less people and the the trail straight out of The Hobbit—mossy forests, dramatic cliffs, and endless ocean views. It’s 3.5 miles of pure adventure, perfect for older kids who love to hike. This trail does have some steep hills and narrow passageways but honestly, it feels like stepping into another world.
Don’t Miss out on the Best Hikes in Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park was such perfect destination for families seeking outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for the best hike with the kids, a relaxing beach day, or a scenic walk with breathtaking views, Acadia delivers it all. From Cadillac Mountain’s sunrise views to the peaceful trails around Jordan Pond, every corner of this park is worth exploring. We hope your time at Acadia National Park is filled with memories that last a lifetime.
