Last updated: October 20, 2020
Thing to Do
Hike Schoodic Peninsula Trails
Schoodic Peninsula offers a network of hiking trails across the peninsula, from Winter Harbor in the north through spruce-fir forests, pine woodlands, and a shrubland, terminating on the southern end at Blueberry Hill. Enjoy views from the Anvil and Schoodic Head, as well as some challenging steep climbs from the East Trail.
- Distance: 7.5 miles (for whole network)
- Terrain: forested paths, coastal walks, rocky granite climbs
In addition to the trails described below, hikers may also walk on the Schoodic Bike Paths, to lengthen or shorten their trek as desired.
Hike Descriptions
- Alder Trail: This short, easy walk traverses inland from the rocky shore along a grassy path among fruit trees and alder bushes. Butterflies are common here, as are pitch pine, cedar, birch, and ash trees. This pleasant trail highlights the contrast between ocean and old farmland.
- Anvil Trail: This trail provides access to incredible views from both the rocky knob known as the Anvil and the 440-foot Schoodic Head. The trail starts by climbing through woods of ash, birch, and spruce and ends atop rocky summits.
- Buck Cove Mountain Trail: This is the network's longest trail at just over 3 miles. The trail skirts the edge of Birch Harbor Mountain and leads to Schoodic Head summit. While it is longer and has more climbing than some of the network's other trails, the elevation gains allow for incredible views of the surrounding area and make this a very worth-while hike.
- East Trail: This short but steep trail goes up the eastern side of Schoodic Head, with views along the way of Schoodic Point to the southwest and Spruce Point to the northeast. The trail begins with a steady ascent, then rises quickly via switchbacks. In the spring, Canada dogwood and tiny white starflowers bloom along the trail. Gnarled pitch pines, cedars, and sea-green lichen are plentiful here.
- Lower Harbor Trail: This trail offers waterfront views for the majority of its 1.2 mile stretch. The flat terrain and coastal views make this a trail perfect for everyone to enjoy.
- Schoodic Head: This trail provides a fresh perspective on Acadia National Park and expansive views of the area. The trail winds along Schoodic Head, the distinctive knob many visitor only see from atop Cadillac Mountain.
Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
Although this activity is free, a park entrance pass is required for all areas of the park from May 1 through October 31.
The Trailheads: Where to Begin
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Schoodic Woods Campground (more parking)
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Blueberry Hill (less parking)
Getting to the Trailheads
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By car:
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Schoodic Woods Campground: Drive east out of Winter Harbor on ME-186 (Main Street) then turn right onto Schoodic Loop Road. Continue 0.6 miles down Schoodic Loop Road and turn left onto the first road possible (Farview Drive) following the signs to the campground. Parking is 50 feet down the road on the right by the ranger station. This parking lot is advised for first time visitors because the ranger station is a great source of information.
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Blueberry Hill: Drive east out of Winter Harbor on ME-186 (Main Street) then turn right onto Schoodic Loop Road. Continue down Schoodic Loop Road for 5.1 miles (past the Schoodic Woods Campground and the Schoodic Education and Research Center). Parking is on the right, and well-signed.
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By bus: There is no public transportation to these trailheads.
Some biking paths are accessible but become steep in sections.
There are accessible bathrooms at Schoodic Woods Campground only.
Trail Safety Tips
- Check trail elevation profile or topographic map 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.