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Ocean Path and Otter Point – Acadia National Park

Overview

This is an easy, but long, walk and definitely worth it. You’re basically walking down a trail alongside the road, but there are plenty of places where you can walk off the path towards the rocks that have great views of the water and of Sand Beach the more you head up.

Quick Facts

Time Spent3 hours
Best Time to Visit?Daytime
Distance4.4 Miles (Roundtrip)
Type of TrailThere & Back
Bathroom Available?No
Cost for EntryFree
Worth It?If There's Time
Hiking DifficultyBeginner
Seasonal?Spring - Fall

 Note: Always check trail status and weather conditions before visiting

Attraction Tips

Get off the beaten path

Find opportunities to get off the trail and climb onto the rocks to see the jagged coastline. It’s absolutely stunning!

Time your visit with Thunder Hole

We recommend coming 1 – 2 hours before high tide to catch the sound of this natural wonder. At opportune times, the waves catch in the rocks just right to produce a loud clapping sound, imitating thunder.

How to Get There & Parking

Address:

Ocean Path Trailhead
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
 

Parking: Free

What To Bring

Water Bottle(s) / Snacks

Waterproof Jacket / Pants (Rain Gear)

Waterproof Hiking Shoes (Sneakers or Boots)

Waterproof Backpack

Attraction Details

Ocean Path trail gives you the opportunity to walk up the rocky coastline – there are plenty of places to stop and climb out on the rocks to see some spectacular views. There is also an attraction called Thunder Hole along the walk. At the end of this inlet, there is a small cavern where, when the waves come in around high tide, air and water is forced out like a clap of distant thunder. We weren’t able to experience this, but there are certain times of day where a big group shows up.

There isn’t a loop to this trail, it’s more walking down to Otter Point and then turning back around to walk the same trail back. This was good though, because you see it from a different perspective on the way back and there are things you might not have stopped for that you did on the way back.

Related Attractions

Acadia National Park

North Bubble Trail

Jordan Pond Path

Cadillac Mountain & Blue Hill Overlook

Ocean Path and Otter Point are featured in the following itineraries:

The Best Hiking Trails at Acadia National Park

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