Acadia is a hiker's paradise. Within the park, 125 miles of trails offer choices for all abilities and interests. From flat rambles across meadows to challenging climbs up iron rungs, you can find it here. Terrain varies from rugged shoreline and deep woods to open mountain summits with views of the ocean and outer islands. For those who prefer more level footing, 45 miles of carriage roads are excellent for walking.

Here are a few items to get you started on your hiking adventure:

• Check out the hiking trail difficulty sheet (pdf - 53kb) for a small selection of park trails.
• Take note of annual trail closures that may limit traffic on certain trails to protect wildlife and temporary closures, if any.
• Pick up a trail map or guide at the park bookstore or shops in nearby towns to get the most out of park trails. 
• Read more about winter hiking if you're thinking about hiking in Acadia during the winter.
• Follow the hiking hints listed below to help you have a safe experience.

Hiking Hints

Trail Safety

• Be careful when hiking near cliff edges. Loose gravel on rocks creates dangerous footing, which can result in serious falls.
• Carry water, at least 20 ounces, and more on warm days. If you don't need it, your hiking partner or someone you come across might.
• Wear sturdy hiking shoes. Dress for variable weather.
• Follow blue trail blazes and use a map. 
• Do not modify or build new cairns. Changes to trail markers may endanger other hikers.
• Know the difficulty level of the trail and your physical abilities and limitations.

Leave No Trace!

• Stay on the trail. Stepping off-trail tramples fragile plant life and causes erosion.
• Step carefully on summits. Rare subalpine plant species grow on many mountaintops. Step on rocks when possible.
• Bury human waste in areas without toilets.
• Carry out all trash, including toilet paper and cigarette butts.

Rules and Regulations

• Pets must be restrained on a leash no longer than six feet and are not permitted on ladder trails.
• Do not feed or disturb wildlife.
• Bicycles and horses are not allowed on hiking trails.
• Fires are permitted only in designated areas.
• Due to the park's small size, there is no backcountry camping.
• Swimming, wading, and pets are prohibited in public water supplies. Please respect posted regulations at lakes and ponds.