Acadia’s Quiet Side
Norumbega Mountain is the hike for people who want solitude in a national park that draws three million visitors a year. Rising 852 feet above the east shore of Somes Sound, this 2.4-mile round trip sees a fraction of the foot traffic that the east-side trails get. The summit ledges offer calm views over Somes Sound, the western mountains, and on clear days, all the way to the outer islands.
If you have already hiked the marquee trails and want something quieter, Norumbega delivers.
The Trail
The most common route starts from the Goat Trail parking pulloff on Route 198, between Northeast Harbor and Somesville. The Goat Trail climbs steadily through mixed hardwoods and conifers, gaining about 600 feet over roughly 1.2 miles to the summit. The trail is well-marked with cairns and blazes, though it is narrower and less maintained than the heavily-trafficked east-side paths.
The footing is typical Acadia: roots, rocks, and a few steep pitches that require hands. Nothing is technically difficult, but it is a consistent climb. Near the top, the trail opens onto granite ledges with views south and west over Somes Sound.
The summit itself is partly wooded, but the open ledge areas provide enough room to sit and take in the view. Return the same way, or make a 3.2-mile loop by descending the Norumbega Mountain Trail to the north and walking back along Route 198.
For a longer loop with more views, descend the Norumbega Mountain Trail to the north and connect back via the road. The loop adds about 0.8 miles but gives you a different perspective on the descent.
When to Go
Spring
Muddy in places through May. The trail dries out later than the east-side trails. Black flies are present late May through June.
Summer
Warm and green. Fewer crowds than the main trails. Bring water and bug spray.
Fall
Foliage along Somes Sound is gorgeous. Cool air, clear skies, and near-zero crowds.
Winter
Hikeable with microspikes. The trail sees less winter traffic and may be unbroken after snowfall.
Practical Notes
Norumbega is a great afternoon hike when the Jordan Pond and Cadillac parking lots are full. The Goat Trail pulloff is small but rarely full, even on peak summer weekends.
Dogs are allowed on leash. There are no restrooms at the trailhead. Cell service is spotty. Parking is a small roadside pulloff, not a formal lot.
Packing List
Norumbega Mountain Day Hike
- 1 liter of water per person
- Sturdy shoes
- Bug spray in summer
- Light layer for the summit
- Camera
- Park pass or entrance fee
Getting There
The Goat Trail parking pulloff is on Route 198 between Northeast Harbor and Somesville, on the east side of Somes Sound. From Bar Harbor, the drive is about 20 minutes. From Bangor, allow about 1 hour 15 minutes.
FAQ
How long does the Norumbega hike take?
Most hikers complete the 2.4-mile round trip in 1.5 to 2 hours. The optional loop adds about 30 minutes.
Is it crowded?
No. Norumbega is one of the least-visited summits in Acadia. You may have the summit to yourself even in summer.
Are the views as good as Cadillac?
Different. The views are more intimate, focused on Somes Sound and the western mountains rather than the 360-degree ocean panorama of Cadillac. Many locals prefer the quiet.
Can kids hike this?
Yes, with supervision. The trail is short but consistently steep. Best for kids age 6 and up who are comfortable with rocky footing.
