Hike Bald Peak and Parkman Mountain Loop

A short, challenging hike to the top of two mountains each over 900 feet. The hike crosses carriage roads before summiting for ocean views of the Somes Sound and Northeast Harbor. Start with Bald Peak Trail, as it offers steeper terrain than its western Parkman Mountain Trail counterpart. Choose dry weather to avoid hazards on slippery, exposed granite sections. This hike is also a good sunset option, but carry appropriate gear and headlamps when hiking at dusk and dark.
 

• Distance: 2.7 miles round trip
• Terrain: Forested path, steep granite and challenging rocky footing throughout with one iron rung.

Hike Description

• The hike starts at Sargent Mountain Trailhead and descends slightly through the forest on the Hadlock Brook Trail.
• Pass the Parkman Mountain Trail junction. After .2 miles, come to the junction for the Bald Peak Trail and turn left.
• The Bald Peak Trail becomes more rugged as it follows a stream and begins to ascend Bald Peak. There are two carriage road crossings.
• After crossing the second carriage road, the hike becomes significantly steeper and exposed. Blue blazes and stone Bates cairns on the open granite face mark the trail. This section is not recommended in wet weather.
• At the top of Bald Peak, enjoy views of Upper Hadlock Pond and the outlying islands.
• Continue down the north side of the mountain before ascending to the junction with Parkman Mountain Trail. Take a right for .1 mi to the summit.
• Retrace the trail southward, pass the junction again, and continue the descent into the forest. There are two steep ledges and one iron rung. These sections are challenging when wet.
• The trail crosses the carriage road three times before ending at the junction where the hike started. A right turn leads back the ME Route 198 and the parking lot.

Details

Duration

1-2 Hours

This hike is 2.7 miles roundtrip. Duration, or how long a hike takes, depends on your pace, how frequently you stop, and the terrain. For an average pace, this hike takes 1-2 hours. 

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. It is not recommended for pets, since there is one iron rung and many steep sections.

Activity Fee

No

Although this activity is free, a park entrance pass is required for all areas of the park from May 1 through October 31.

Location

Bald Peak and Parkman Mountain

The Trailhead: Where to Begin

• Sargent Mountain Trailhead

Getting to the Trailhead

• By car: After reaching Mount Desert Island on ME Route 3, stay to the right to follow ME Route 102. At the stop light turn left following ME Route 198 towards Northeast Harbor. (From Bar Harbor, follow ME Route 233 to reach ME Route 198.) Pass the Parkman Mountain parking lot (on the left) and park at the next unmarked, pullout parking area (Norumbega Parking) on the right at the base of the hill. The trailhead is located on the opposite side of the highway.

• By bus: Take the Island Explorer (mid-June to October) to Parkman Mountain. Follow Hadlock Pond Carriage Road to intersection with Bald Peak Trail. Check bus schedules for times and routes.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

Bald Peak and Parkman Mountain Loop is not accessible. The trails have uneven footing and short, steep sections requiring some scrambling throughout.

There are no accessible restrooms at the trailhead.

Bald Peak and Parkman Mountain Loop

Trail Safety Tips

• Check trail elevation profile before hiking.
• Bring a map, water, snacks, compass, and extra layers for unpredictable changes in weather.
• Reduce the chance of picking up ticks by staying in the center of the trail, and not stepping on soils and away from brush.
• Always do a tick check after visiting the park.
• Closed-toe, good traction shoes recommended because most trail surfaces are very unlevel.