Top 5 Hikes in Acadia for Beautiful Fall Foliage Views
There’s truly nothing like autumn in Acadia National Park. We went in October of last year, and if you’re planning a trip, I highly recommend you going in the fall. These five hikes in Acadia make for unreal fall foliage views.
The cool, crisp air. The vibrant reds, oranges, and golds lighting up the landscape. If you’re looking to catch peak fall foliage, the best way to experience it is by hiking through some of the park’s most scenic trails.
1. The Beehive Trail
Distance: ~1.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Moderate to Strenuous (includes iron rungs & ladders)
Best For: Thrill-seekers & incredible summit views
The Beehive Trail is not your average hike, it’s more of an adventure. This was one of the most fun hiking trails I’ve ever done.
Short but steep, this trail takes you up the side of a granite dome with the help of iron rungs and handrails. If you’re okay with heights and want a dose of adrenaline, this one’s for you.
At the top you will get a panoramic view of Sand Beach, the coastline, and the explosion of fall color across the park. It’s absolutely breathtaking in October when the leaves are at their peak. By far one of the best hikes in Acadia
Tip: If you’re not into heights, you can still reach the summit via the Bowl Trail for a less intense but still scenic route.
2. Jordan Pond Path
Distance: 3.3 miles loop
Difficulty: Easy
Best For: All skill levels, peaceful lake views, and family-friendly hiking
Jordan Pond Path is a must-do any time of year, but it really shines in the fall. The trail loops around the crystal-clear pond and offers constant views of the surrounding forest and the iconic Bubbles (North and South Bubble Mountains).
The fall reflections on the still water are just unreal. It’s an easy walk, mostly flat, with sections of gravel and boardwalk, making it perfect for families or a relaxed stroll.
To see more around Jordan Pond or want a private tour to see more of Acadia, check out the tours here!
3. Gorham Mountain Trail
Distance: ~1.8 miles round trip (or longer loop options)
Difficulty: Moderate
Best For: Coastal views and a mix of mountain & ocean scenery
If you want a hike that combines fall foliage with sweeping coastal views, Gorham Mountain is a solid pick. It’s not as intense as the Beehive or Precipice but still offers a rewarding summit and beautiful photo ops along the way.
This isn’t one of the more popular hikes in Acadia, but it’s definitely one you should NOT skip. Less crowds and super fun to do
You will walk along the beach before getting to the trailhead. The trail takes you through forested paths with bright foliage before opening up to granite ledges with views of the Atlantic and Otter Cliffs. In October, The sunset on the water mixed with the orange leaves is just beautiful.
This trail also involves a little bit of scrambling. It’s not exactly a flat hike, there is some climbing and rocks involved but that makes it all more fun. It takes you right along the edge of the cliffs and is truly breath-taking once you reach the tip of the peninsula.
4. The Precipice Trail
Distance: ~2.5 miles round trip
Difficulty: Strenuous (not for those afraid of heights)
Best For: Experienced hikers & adrenaline junkies
Unfortunately, we did not have time for this trail and the group I went with were also scared to do this. I am definitely going to come back just to do this trail sometime.
The Precipice Trail is often called the most challenging (and exhilarating) hike in Acadia. It climbs nearly 1,000 feet in under a mile using ladders, iron rungs, and narrow ledges. It’s intense, but the views from the summit of Champlain Mountain are absolutely worth it, especially when the fall colors are popping.
This trail is usually closed in spring and early summer due to nesting peregrine falcons, but by fall, it’s usually open and ready for the brave.
⚠️ Warning: This hike is not recommended in wet or windy conditions and not suitable for young kids or dogs.
5. Ocean Path Trail
Distance: ~4.4 miles round trip (Sand Beach to Otter Point)
Difficulty: Easy
Best For: Coastal vibes, leaf-peeping, and iconic Acadia views without a strenuous hike
Ocean Path is one of the most scenic (and accessible) trails in Acadia National Park. Running along the rugged coastline from Sand Beach to Otter Point, this out-and-back trail offers crashing waves, pink granite cliffs, and yes and stunning fall foliage all around you.
There are several areas you can walk out onto the rocks and climb on top of them and have some fun photo shoots as well
You’ll pass iconic stops like Thunder Hole, Monument Cove, and Otter Cliffs, all worth pausing at for photos or a quiet moment to take it all in. This is the last hike we did since it was the easiest and it really was a great way to end the trip and see all that Acadia had to offer.
The path is mostly flat with some rocky sections, so it’s great for all ages and fitness levels. Plus, because it’s close to Park Loop Road, you can make it as long or as short as you’d like.
Final Thoughts
Acadia in the fall is something special, and hiking is hands down the best way to take it all in. When you’re done hiking and exploring, head into the town of Bar harbor for some fun fall festivities. Hit up a coffee shop, a brewery or even take a ghost tour. Being in Acadia in the fall will feel like you’re in a vintage Halloween movie. And it’s pretty awesome!
Feel like going with a small group or guide, you can book that experience here!
For an easier time getting around, take a narrated Bus Tour through Bar Harbor and see the best spots of Acadia without the hiking! CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE