The only National Park in Maine also happens to be the perfect spot for exploring the many different landscapes of the state. With a mix of forest, coastal, and wetland views, there’s a little bit of Maine to be found in every corner of the park. This also makes it fantastic for sharing the beauty of getting outside with kids. Photos of the trails here might make it seem best only for experts, but there are actually plenty of simple and short routes that are great for families. Here are a few family hikes in Acadia National Park we think you’ll love!

1. Bar Island Trail, 2.1 miles, out-and-back
Bar Island Trail, Maine, USA
Ken Brock / alltrails.com
This flat, but beautiful trail offers a fun secret. You can only access it during low tide when the receding waters reveal a sandy area on which to cross to the island. But be sure to plan things right or else you might be stuck! You can learn more about it by checking out this article.
2. Flying Mountain Trail, 1.5 miles, loop
Flying Mountain Trailhead, 96 Fernald Point Rd, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679, USA
Leslie Lute / alltrails.com
While rated as moderate, this trail should be doable for adults and kids who have hiked before. The beginning section is steep but relatively short. After clearing it, you'll have views of beautiful Somes Sound. The loop takes you back to the start. Note that the trail may be closed at certain intervals between mid-April and mid-July for falcon nesting. Learn more about this amazing trek on AllTrails!
3. Ocean Path Trail, 4.5-miles, out-and-back
Ocean Path Trailhead, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
Duane Luckenbill / alltrails.com
While a bit longer than some of the others on this list, this is still a great one for kids who like to roll up their sleeves (or pant legs!) and enjoy an adventure. Start at the south end of the upper Sand Beach Parking lot. Along the way you'll pass Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff, making this a great way to sightsee as well. Learn more about it here.

Related Stories

After A Hike On Maine's Belfast Rail Trail, Board The Historic Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad For A Memorable Adventure

After A Hike On Maine's Belfast Rail Trail, Board The Historic Belfast & Moosehead Lake Railroad For A Memorable Adventure

 Take A Meandering Path To A Maine Overlook That’s Like The Sitting At The Edge Of The World

Take A Meandering Path To A Maine Overlook That’s Like The Sitting At The Edge Of The World

 7 Maine Trails That Lead To Simply Spectacular Lake Views

7 Maine Trails That Lead To Simply Spectacular Lake Views
4. Lower Hadlock Pond Loop Trail, 2.3 miles, loop
Lower Hadlock Pond, Mt Desert, ME, USA
David Verespy / alltrails.com
As the name would suggest, this looped trail travels around the beautiful Lower Hadlock Pond which is both calming and awe-inspiring. Along the way, you'll pass rivers, streams, and even some waterfalls. Read more on the official AllTrails page!
5. Cadillac Summit Loop Trail, 0.5 miles, loop
Cadillac Mountain Summit Trail, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
Cadillac Summit Road, Cadillac Summit Rd, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
Olivia Jade / alltrails.com
One of the best views at the top of a mountain in Maine requires no climb at all. The Cadillac Summit Loop begins and ends at the top. We love that this one is also paved with 3-foot width at minimum making it largely accessible. The steeper sections may be a challenge but can be avoided. Read more about this hike on AllTrails.
6. Lower Harbor Trail, 2.4 miles, out-and-back
Mosquito Harbor, Winter Harbor, ME 04693, USA
Christian Kijora / alltrails.com
This is an extra-fun hike due in part to its location on Schoodic Peninsula versus MDI, making it a bit less trafficked. It's also a good one for those while enjoy exploring fun hidden areas on the trail that are on the water. Whatever amount of time you budget for this one, add a little extra if your group tends to be extra-curious as there are lots of areas for additional exploring. Want to know more and see more photos? AllTrails has got you covered.
7. Jesup and Hemlock Loop, 1.7 miles, loop
Jesup Path, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, USA
rjcox / Flickr
We think this trail is not only one of the most beautiful in Acadia, but also the most beautiful in the state! A nice, simple, flat walk, you'll find the trailhead at Wild Gardens of Acadia. In the spring and summer green surrounds you, while the fall offers the brightest colors you'll ever see! Learn more about it and see more photos here.

What are some of your favorite family-friendly hikes in Acadia National Park? How about the rest of the state? We’d love to hear your recommendations for spots that are kid-friendly no matter where they are! You can learn more about Acadia National Park by visiting the official website to plan your trip. Be sure to check trail conditions before you set out for the park. The park closes trails if they become unsafe due to weather conditions. And always worth a reminder to carry out anything you carry in.

Another great hike in Acadia National Park is the Great Head Trail in Maine, which leads to pink granite cliffs and unparalleled views. Despite being short, this route is rated as moderate due to its steepness in some areas.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

More to Explore

National Park to Visit in Maine

Tori Jane | January 27, 2022

What are some of the best hiking trails in Maine?  

Maine isn’t exactly thought of as a hiker’s paradise, but perhaps it ought to be. In fact, according to our friends at AllTrails.com, there are more than 1600 amazing trails weaving through the state! Of course, the “best” is subjective, but we’ll just go ahead and count the most popular and well-loved trails in the state as such. The #1 most popular trail in Maine at the time of this writing is challenging, but well worth the effort; it’s the Beehive Loop Trail, and it’s one and a half tough miles of amazing landscapes. If you’re visiting Acadia National Park (which, after reading the above article, you definitely ought to be), this trail is a must. Also within Acadia NP is Maine’s second-most popular trail, the considerably easier (but longer, at 3.1 miles long) Jordan Pond Path. This trail takes you around the crystal-clear pond and will show you sights you didn’t know were possible in little old Maine. For more ideas for your next hiking adventure in Maine, check this article out!  

What are some amazing things to do outside in Maine?  

Maine is an avid outdoorsman’s paradise. It’s ridiculously photogenic, no matter which part of the state you’re in. It’s home to more than 1600 incredible trails for hiking, walking, biking, running, horseback riding, and anything else you can possibly hope for. It’s got some of the most incredible coastlines in the nation, if not the world. As a result, there are TONS of amazing things to do outside in Maine. Camping, hiking, and fishing are popular during the warmer months, and during the winter, you won’t be able to get enough sledding, skiing, or general snowy shenanigans. Maine is a great place for hiking year-round, so don’t let it be a summer-only thing. Cold weather in Maine – even as bitterly cold as it can get sometimes – isn't an excuse to stay indoors. In fact, it’s a great reason in and of itself to do the opposite – get out and enjoy every moment.   

Related Articles

Explore Maine

Featured Addresses
Acadia National Park, Maine, USA