Wayside: Beach and Beyond

Access Wayside: Beach and Beyond

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

Sandy Beach

Significance:

Interpretive Wayside

Amenities

2 listed

Audio Description, Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits

Access Acadia: Inclusive Descriptions of Park Destinations

• LINK TO WAYSIDE IMAGE IN NPGALLERY

• LINK TO RECORDED AUDIO DESCRIPTION

• Access Wayside: Beach and Beyond

  
  

  Audio description for wayside: Beach and Beyond.
  Audio Transcript

  Near Sand Beach by the changing rooms, a wayside exhibit entitled "Beach and Beyond" appears on an upright panel attached to a stone base.

  In an aerial view of Sand Beach and the surrounding landscape, the exhibit's title appears over a blue sky dotted with white puffy clouds. Labels identify Ocean Path, The Beehive, and Bowl trailheads, and Great Head. An arrow points to the area near the beach where the changing rooms, bus stop, restrooms, and parking are located: "You Are Here."

  Introductory text reads: "From walking leisurely in the sand to hiking rigorously up cliff-side ladders, the Sand Beach area provides access to many ways to experience Acadia National Park." To access Sand Beach, use the staircase below the trees on the left.

  A quote: "Sand Beach is the grandest coast scenery we have seen yet. Great Head is a tremendous overhanging precipice, rising from the ocean, with the surf dashing against it in a frightful manner." - Thomas Cole, founder of the Hudson River School of landscape painting, 1844

  A map inset shows nearby points of interest - trailheads, a parking lot, a bus stop, changing rooms, and restrooms.

  Beach Safety Tips: -Walk on sand. Avoid wet rocks. -The water is cold. -Be alert for changing tides and strong waves.

  Hiking Safety Tips: -Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. -Carry water and use a trail map. -Stay on established trails. -Use insect repellent and check for ticks. -Avoid hiking in rain and snow storms.

  Protect the Park: -Pets are not allowed on Beehive Trail or on the beach in summer. -Hikers with dogs - use a non-beach access to Great Head Trail in summer. -Pick up after your pet. -Stay off the dunes and grass. -Do not feed wildlife.

  Photographs highlight three Hiking Choices:

  The first photograph shows visitors on a path near the water. Ocean Path is an easy hike, a distance of 2.2 miles one-way to Otter Point. "Stroll along a gravel path on Acadia's rocky shoreline to catch a glimpse of the park's most famous views. In the summer, board the free Island Explorer bus back to Bar Harbor... or simply walk back to this lot." Wheelchair accessible at paved overlooks and in small segments. "Walk straight ahead, then to the right to access this trail."

  The second photograph shows Great Head Trail, a moderate 1.5-mile loop. Using trekking poles, several hikers make their way along a path toward a stand of trees. "Watch the waves crashing along the sheer rock cliffs. Be prepared to scramble across granite inclines and traverse unlevel, rocky slopes. Cross Sand Beach to the left to reach the trailhead, then ascend the steep, granite slope to access the trail."

  The third photograph features a hiker climbing a vertical rock-face, using iron hand-holds. Text explains that Beehive Trail, a 1.6-mile loop, is considered strenuous, with sheer cliffs and ladders. "Avoid this trail if you have a fear of heights. Due to rung ladders, open ledges, and steep drop-offs, this trail is not recommended for small children and is closed to dogs. Descending The Beehive is dangerous and not advised. Return on the Bowl Trail. Turn right, walk along the parking lot, and cross Park Loop Road to access the trailhead."