Gorham Mountain Trail offers magnificent views of the Gulf of Maine and its surrounding islands, gorgeous rock outcroppings, Sand Beach and Otter Point.

Almost immediately after your journey begins, you will be treated to the spectacular vistas of Acadia National Park. The trail ascends to a height of only 525 feet above sea level. You are close enough to the shore to enjoy the wildlife that thrive in the area. Shorebirds, duck and geese abound. Don't forget to look up to see the occasional bald eagle or soaring hawk. Soon after you begin your journey you will see a plaque honoring a man who was instrumental in the early development of Acadia's trail system. The trail splits and you will want to bear left to reach Gorham Mountain. As you hike, be sure to notice the wonderful blueberry bushes which ripen each August along with sheep laurel, huckleberries and asters. Within a few paces, the trail reaches what is known as Gorham's false summit that offers panoramic views including Otter Point, Otter Cliffs, Baker Island and Cranberry Islands to the south. This false summit was in the path of the 1947 island fire. Looking northward you will see Frenchman's Bay and Egg Rock Island. Between Otter Point and Egg Rock look for the tiny island named Old Soaker. Behind Old Soaker, the shoreline in the distance is Schoodic Peninsula. As you ascend the views become better and better. Look southeast for Otter Creek, a small village and Dorr Mountain beyond the village. Looking to the northeast, you will be able to see the cliffs of Cadillac Mountain which are 1,530 feet above sea level. Retrace your steps for a different perspective of the landmarks and to reach the trailhead.

Directions: From Bar Harbor, ME, Enter the park at Hull's Cove. Follow the signs for Park Loop Road. Just beyond Thunder Hole is a parking lot for Gorham Mountain. Park there. During the off seaon, you will have to remain on SR 3 past Hull's Cove. Bear left on Schooner Head Road. Travel 3 miles and take a right at a stop sign then turn left into the Gorham lot.

Elevation: 525 feet

Elevation Gain: 525 feet

Distance: 2 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

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