The best hikes from bus stations around Bar Harbor
4.8
(646)
7,890
hikers
12
hikes
Bus station hiking trails around Bar Harbor offer access to the diverse landscapes of Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park. The region features a mix of coastal scenery, granite mountains, and dense woodlands. Hikers can explore rocky shorelines, freshwater ponds, and numerous islands, with elevations ranging from sea level to the summit of Cadillac Mountain.
Best bus station hiking trails around Bar Harbor
- The most popular bus station hiking route is United States Postal Service – Bar Island Trail…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
2.85km
00:45
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
5.64km
01:30
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
10
hikers
14.8km
04:55
470m
470m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
4.3
(3)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
9
hikers
4.97km
01:18
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Stephen Tyng Mather (1867–1930) was an American industrialist and conservationist. In 1917 he was appointed the first director of the National Park Service. https://www.nps.gov/people/stephen-tyng-mather.htm
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As you climb the Cadillac-Dorr Connector Trail to the summit of Desert Island's highest mountain, you'll enjoy magnificent views to the north over the Porcupine Islands in French Bay and Dorr Mountain to the east.
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At the end of the 19th century, Desert Island became a tourist attraction. The Green Mountain Cog Railway, a cog railway, was in operation from 1883 and took tourists to the summit of Green Mountain, today's Cadillac Mountain (from 1918), where they could enjoy the breathtaking view. The railway ran from Eagle Lake to the summit over a distance of around 1.8 km. When passenger numbers declined, the railway service was discontinued in 1891. In the following years, the railway line was completely dismantled. Today, only remnants of the route remain. The Buckboard Road was built in the late 19th century, leading up to the summit along the north ridge. However, the journey was only possible by horse-drawn carriage and tourists preferred to walk up the mountain. https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/secrets-of-the-summit.htm The paved ‘Cadillac Mountain Road’ was completed between 1929 and 1932. The more than six kilometer long route is considered an exceptional example of construction work in mountainous terrain. https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/motor-road-history.htm
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The Criterion Theatre is a historic venue on Cottage Street. It was built in 1932 in the Art Deco style. Since 2014, the theatre has been owned by a non-profit organization; after a renovation, it reopened in May 2015. In 1980, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Criterion_Theatre_(Bar_Harbor,_Maine)
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‘Bar Island’ is part of the town of Gouldsboro, which is located on the Schoodic Peninsula to the east, and is not part of the Bar Harbor urban area. Remains of former buildings can still be seen on the island. Over the years, several families lived here on farms and raised sheep. In 2003, ‘Bar Island’ became part of ‘Acadia National Park’. https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/bar-island-fast-facts.htm
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The historic building of the United States Postal Service on Cottage Street was built in 1909 from granite stone. It has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1986. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U.S._Post_Office-Bar_Harbor_Main
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On the hill inside Bar Island, you can get an excellent view of the city when the weather is good, with the mountains of Acadia National Park in the background, including Mount Cadillac. On the side facing away from the city, large cruise ships are anchored during the season.
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The land bridge to Bar Island is dry at low tide and should be hiked 1.5 hours before and 1.5 hours after low tide. The trail leads to a hill in the interior of the island, where you have a good view of the town and the land bridge. However, there is a less traveled trail along the coast around the entire island. https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/hike-bar-island-trail.htm
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are accessible from bus stations in Bar Harbor?
This guide features 12 hiking routes that are conveniently accessible from bus stations in and around Bar Harbor. These trails offer a range of experiences, from easy strolls to more challenging ascents.
Are there easy hiking trails accessible by bus in Bar Harbor?
Yes, there are 6 easy hiking trails accessible by bus. A great option for a gentle walk is the United States Postal Service – Bar Island Trail loop from Bar Harbor, which offers a unique experience of walking to Bar Island at low tide. Another pleasant, easy route is the Bar Harbor Main Street – Agamont Park loop from Bar Harbor, perfect for exploring the town's coastline.
Are there challenging hikes accessible by bus from Bar Harbor?
For those seeking a challenge, this guide includes 3 difficult hiking routes accessible by bus. The Cadillac North Ridge – Small stone bridge loop from Bar Harbor is a demanding trail that takes you up Cadillac Mountain, offering significant elevation gain and rewarding views.
What natural attractions can I see on these bus-accessible trails?
Many trails accessible by bus lead to or pass by stunning natural attractions. You can reach the iconic Cadillac Mountain — Summit and Overlook, offering panoramic views. Coastal trails might bring you close to Sand Beach or the dramatic Thunder Hole. Some routes also feature beautiful lakes like The Tarn.
What do other hikers say about the bus-accessible trails in Bar Harbor?
The bus-accessible trails in Bar Harbor are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to mountain summits, and the convenience of accessing these routes via public transport.
Are there any circular routes starting from bus stations?
Yes, many of the routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your hike at the same bus stop. For example, the Bar Island Trail – Agamont Park loop from Bar Harbor is an easy circular route that combines coastal views with the unique Bar Island experience.
Do I need a permit or to pay an entrance fee for these trails?
Many of the trails around Bar Harbor are located within Acadia National Park. While the Island Explorer bus provides access, you will need a park entrance pass to visit Acadia National Park. Passes can be purchased online or at park visitor centers. For detailed information on fees and passes, please visit the official National Park Service website: nps.gov/acad.
What is the best time of year to hike these trails?
The best time to hike in Bar Harbor is generally from late spring through fall. Summer offers warm weather and full access to all park facilities and the Island Explorer bus. Fall brings stunning foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. Spring can be beautiful but may have muddy trails and variable weather. Winter hiking is possible but requires appropriate gear and awareness of trail conditions.
Are dogs allowed on these bus-accessible trails?
Acadia National Park is generally dog-friendly, with over 100 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads where leashed dogs are permitted. However, some specific trails, like those with iron rungs or ladders (e.g., Beehive, Precipice), are not suitable for dogs. Always keep your dog on a leash and clean up after them. For specific trail regulations, it's best to check the Acadia National Park website.
Are there family-friendly options among the bus-accessible hikes?
Absolutely. Many of the easy routes are suitable for families. The United States Postal Service – Bar Island Trail loop is a fun, unique experience for all ages, especially when timed with low tide. The region also offers many gentle coastal walks and carriage roads that are ideal for families.
Which bus system serves the trailheads around Bar Harbor?
The primary public transportation system serving trailheads in and around Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park is the Island Explorer bus. This free shuttle service operates seasonally, typically from late June through Columbus Day, connecting Bar Harbor with various park attractions and trailheads. It's an excellent way to access hikes without needing a car.
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