The Best Short Coastal Hike in Acadia
Great Head is a granite peninsula that juts into the Atlantic just east of Sand Beach. The trail loops around and over the headland, climbing to 145 feet above the ocean with cliff-edge views in almost every direction. At 1.4 miles, it is one of the shorter hikes in Acadia National Park, but the scenery is anything but small. Open ocean stretches to the east, Sand Beach curves below to the south, and the rocky coast of Otter Cliff and the Beehive are visible to the west.
This is one of the most scenic miles of trail in the park, and because it sits just off the beaten path from Sand Beach, it sees a fraction of the foot traffic that the Ocean Path or Beehive Trail get on a busy summer day.
The Trail
Most hikers start from the eastern end of Sand Beach. Cross the beach and pick up the trail where it enters the woods at the far end. The path climbs gradually through a mix of spruce forest and open granite ledge, gaining about 300 feet over the course of the loop.
The high point of the headland is an open granite dome with panoramic views. To the east, nothing but ocean. To the south, Sand Beach and the cliffs of the Beehive. To the north, the outer islands of Frenchman Bay. On clear days, you can see Schoodic Point across the water.
The Teahouse Ruins
Near the summit, the remains of a stone structure sit among the ledge. This was a teahouse and observation tower built by the Satterlee family in 1915. The building was destroyed by fire in 1927, and only the stone foundation and partial walls remain. The ruins add a historical layer to the hike and make a natural spot to stop and take in the view.
Hike the loop clockwise from Sand Beach for the best sequence of views. The trail climbs gradually to the summit and teahouse ruins, then drops along the cliff edge on the north side before looping back. This direction saves the most dramatic ocean cliffs for the second half of the hike.
The Views
Great Head delivers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Acadia without requiring a long hike or any iron rungs. The trail passes along the edge of sheer granite cliffs that drop straight into the Atlantic. The rock is pink Cadillac granite, and when the sun hits it in the morning, the cliffs glow against the dark blue water.
The view back toward Sand Beach from the south side of the headland is one of the most photographed angles in the park. You can see the entire crescent of beach with the Beehive rising behind it.
The cliff edges on the north and east sides of Great Head are unprotected and drop directly into the ocean. Stay on the trail and keep a safe distance from the edge, especially when the rock is wet. The granite can be slippery after rain or fog.
When to Go
Spring
Trail can be muddy and icy in shaded sections into May. Fewer crowds make for a quieter experience.
Summer
Combine with a stop at Sand Beach. Start early to avoid the Sand Beach parking crunch. Morning light on the cliffs is spectacular.
Fall
Clear air, fewer visitors, and warm-toned light on the granite. October mornings are ideal.
Winter
The trail is hikeable but can be icy on the exposed ledge. Microspikes recommended. No services at Sand Beach.
The Sand Beach parking lot fills by 9 AM on summer mornings. Take the Island Explorer shuttle (free, runs all summer) to the Sand Beach stop and walk to the trailhead without the parking stress. Alternatively, park at the Schooner Head Road overlook on the north side of Great Head and start the loop from there.
Practical Notes
The trail is well-marked with cairns and blue blazes on the rock. The terrain is uneven granite with some rocky scrambling, but nothing technical. Sturdy shoes with good grip are recommended. The entire loop takes most hikers 1 to 1.5 hours including time to explore the teahouse ruins and linger at viewpoints.
There are no water sources on the trail. Bring at least a half liter per person. Restrooms are available at the Sand Beach parking area.
Packing List
Great Head Trail
- Sturdy shoes with good traction on rock
- Water (at least 0.5 liters per person)
- Camera
- Binoculars for scanning the ocean and islands
- Light layer for wind on the headland
- Sunscreen (no shade on the summit)
Getting There
The most common start is from Sand Beach on Park Loop Road in Acadia National Park. A valid park pass is required. From Bar Harbor, the drive to Sand Beach is about 10 minutes via Park Loop Road. The Island Explorer shuttle also stops at Sand Beach during the summer season.
An alternate start from Schooner Head Road provides a shorter approach from the north side. A small pullout on Schooner Head Road has room for a few cars.
FAQ
How long does the Great Head Trail take?
Most hikers complete the 1.4-mile loop in 1 to 1.5 hours, including time to explore the teahouse ruins and enjoy the views.
Is this trail good for kids?
Yes, for older kids who are comfortable on uneven rocky terrain. The trail has no iron rungs or ladders like the Beehive, but the cliff edges require awareness.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs are allowed on the Great Head Trail and must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
What are the teahouse ruins?
The stone remains of a teahouse and observation tower built by the Satterlee family in 1915. The building was destroyed by fire in 1927. Only the foundation and partial walls remain.
Can I combine this with other hikes?
Yes. Great Head pairs well with the Ocean Path, the Beehive Trail, or Gorham Mountain. All are accessible from the Sand Beach area.
