We love the trails that take us through the Maine woods on leisurely strolls with fresh air. And though we’ll always enjoy them, every so often you want to tackle something a bit more challenging. When that happens there are a few ways to break a sweat, but one of the most impressive hikes in the state is in Acadia National Park and you’ll want to prepare for this one!
The Precipice Trail is one of the most challenging (but rewarding!) hikes in Acadia National Park. But, it’s not for everyone! The route is challenging and strenuous and while it leads to incredible views, it’s definitely not for those with a fear of heights.
Christina Skaife / alltrails.com
The route can be accessed by following signs on the Park Loop Road to the trailhead. If you start early enough, you’ll be one of the first cars and likely won’t encounter anyone else on the trail. The route begins rather simply. Just follow the rocks upwards.
beifangde1 / TripAdvisor
But soon enough you’ll see why this trail is considered best for experts. While the entire thing is only about 2.5 miles, the trail climbs a whopping 1,000 feet in elevation in just 0.9 miles!
Di An / alltrails.com
And parts of the trail feature narrow, exposed edge that can only be traversed by holding handrails.
Di An / alltrails.com
Most of these portions are totally exposed.
Greg M / TripAdvisor
Those with a fear of heights will definitely not want to look down.
Aishu Aaishwarya / alltrails.com
There are also sections that require a climb using iron rungs.
Meag28 / TripAdvisor
But once you reach the summit, the views are like none you’ve ever seen!
BostonRedSox34 / TripAdvisor
Time your arrival right and you can catch the sun as it comes up.
Jie H / TripAdvisor
Once you’ve taken in the view, you’ll head back down using the Champlain North Ridge Trail to avoid crossing paths with others on their way up. The paths are simply not wide enough for more than one person at a time. The full hike should take anywhere from 1.5 to three hours.
mdevan1111 / TripAdvisor This route is not for everyone, but if you’ve got the hiking experience to manage it you’ll be rewarded with an incredible sense of accomplishment.
The Precipice Trail is best for experienced hikers. If you choose to hike it, always make sure someone knows where you’ll be going. You can learn more about the route by visiting Maine Trail Finder. You can learn more about Acadia National Park on the official park website.
Christina Skaife / alltrails.com
beifangde1 / TripAdvisor
Di An / alltrails.com
Greg M / TripAdvisor
Aishu Aaishwarya / alltrails.com
Meag28 / TripAdvisor
BostonRedSox34 / TripAdvisor
Jie H / TripAdvisor
mdevan1111 / TripAdvisor
This route is not for everyone, but if you’ve got the hiking experience to manage it you’ll be rewarded with an incredible sense of accomplishment.
It’s fun to check out photos and hear stories about these more challenging trails, but sometimes you just want something simple. For those times here are 12 kid-friendly hikes in Maine that are one mile and under.
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Address: Precipice Trail, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
