This figure-eight hike offers beautiful views of the rocks and water--something you think you might get sick of, but you never do! It has some parts that are more climbing than hiking, many places to stop and look out at the water, blueberries to pick, and some parts that are easy walking. It was the perfect thing to do before Sand Beach, as it warmed my son up enough to go in that 55-degree water.
One of the most amazing hikes! There are a few boulders to climb over but overall not a difficult trail but such beautiful views of the ocean, and Sand Beach below as well as the forest. Definitely worth the trip.
I lover either hiking across the beach or down the trail through the meadow to get here. A little more strenuous with the ups and downs than the shoreline but great views all around. Some summers we found black flies. When you do they are everywhere, turn around and go back.
We started Great Head Trail from Sand Beach, after a nice swim in the ocean. If you walk all the way to the left of Sand Beach and cross over a small waterway, the trail starts there. This hike is pretty easy; however, there are some rock scrambles along the way. The views of the shoreline and the rock cliffs are incredible. Also, this trail has the best views of the Beehive. We got some really great pictures of Sand Beach with the Beehive in the background. I would recommend this hike to anyone who is in decent shape. One of my favorite hikes in Acadia!
A bit of a challenge, as you have to go up some rock faces, so wear proper footwear, but well worth it. Great views and lots of spots to stop on to enjoy the views.
This can be a loop trail--most people start and end at the sand beach--or you can combine part of Great Head with Gorham mountain and the shore walk. Either way this is a very attractive hiking area and the fall is a perfect time of year to do it!
This is a beautiful walk along the sea. As recommended by all do it clockwise. The views are great along the way. Enjoy and take pictures. The only confusing part is where to start from. If you start from sand beach then you have to take a small walk from the end of the parking lot to the great head parking lot. I didnt want to get wet early in the hike to go from the beach. There is a great head parking lot which I didnt understand where to get from.
Start from Sand Beach which is also worth spending time and enjoy a view packed walk through the woods. Pay attention to the blue trail markers as it is easy to get turned around. Bring you camera, water and snacks. Not for small children - cliff hazards.
It took a little over 1 1/2 hours for us to complete this trail. You need sturdy shoes as there is a bit of scambling up large boulders. This climb is not easy, it is moderate. The views are beautiful. Have your camera strapped well to your body as it will hit the rocks as you are climbing. The views make it all worth while. It is a loop trail. Watch for the left turn on the loop after you pass through the birch forest. It is easy to miss as the sign for the turn faces the other way and the side of the sign facing you directs you to the right to another location. Worth the hike.
This was a fantastic hike along the top of the ocean cliffs. It is a loop trail. When you reach the end and turn back into the forest take a left when you reach the parking lot. Follow the deserted road back to the Sand Beach Parking lot.