Acadia National Park is one of the most well-known and highly visited places in the state. With over two million recreational visitors a year, it’s one of the most visited national parks in the country. All that popularity means that some of the most popular spots in the park can get crowded during the busier times of the year. But don’t let that keep you from visiting! There are still plenty of places that are a bit off-the-beaten-path and totally worth finding. Today, we are going to feature a lovely path leading to a hidden beach that is fun for the whole family to enjoy, and you can even bring your dog.

Little Hunters Beach is one of those places you imagine when thinking about quintessential "Maine" spots.
Jennifer Ross / alltrails.com
The towering pine trees and rocky cliffs battered by sea spray are the very thing you would expect to see when you come to Acadia and this trail does not disappoint.
The route to get there is just as beautiful as the destination.
Daniela Padua / alltrails.com
The classic seaside forests of Acadia are stunningly pretty and fun to explore along the way.
The 0.6-mile out-and-back route isn't terribly long, but it does have some exposed roots so you'll want to watch your footing. Despite the roots, this is a great trail for kids who love hopping and skipping their way to the destination. Like many ocean-side trails in Maine, you won't find a whole lot of elevation gain so it is perfect for a calm stroll down to the beach.
Agnieszka Rejch / alltrails.com
Much of the trail follows a brook that eventually makes its way out to the water of the beach. The sound of the smooth calm moving water is only second to one of the best sounds in nature: the Maine coastline. But surprisingly enough, you will find another unexpected sound at the beach.
Agnieszka Rejch / alltrails.com

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In addition to the babbling brook, the trail also features a footbridge and plenty of forest views. Finding bridges can be a great way to break up any hike and add man-made beauty to the woods that fits wonderfully in the natural surroundings.
Jessica Tracy / alltrails.com
Remember to spend some time checking out the views along the trail versus just making a direct route to the beach. There are plenty of sections where you will get a view of the mighty Atlantic Ocean.
bruna gatta / alltrails.com
Look out for the weathered sign indicating you're almost there!
Joseph Kapp / alltrails.com
The close you get, the more the trees will begin to thin.
bruna gatta / alltrails.com
At the end of the trail, everything opens up to reveal a cove with pebbles and rocks. This is one of the few dog-friendly beaches in the park and without sand, there's less likelihood of a dog that needs a bath later.
Mackenzie Vadnais/AllTrails
This little spot is often overlooked, so you're likely to have it all to yourself for at least a little while. Once you've relaxed and taken in the view, simply turn around and head back the same way you came. As I mentioned earlier, this hidden beach holds another very intriguing sound above just the crashing waves on the rocky coastline. The rocks move in and out with the tide and roll over each other creating the most interesting sound. This makes for a peaceful place to explore or just sit and relax. To see another close-by hidden gem, check out this video from Adventuring in the Moment when they visited Little Hunters Beach:


Hunters Beach Trail is considered best from early spring to November, though you can visit Acadia National Park year-round. You can learn more about it by checking out the All Trails page on the Hunter Beach Trail. It always helps to have a handy map, especially to find beautiful hidden gems like this one, so make sure you check out All Trails+ to help you make the most of your time outside.

Also, don’t forget to bring the pup along! Just be sure to keep them on a leash. To learn more and to plan your trip, please visit the Acadia National Park page for all the information you need before you go.

Hiking is one of the best ways to see the park and we have a few fun options for you to try. Consider checking out 10 of the greatest Acadia National Park hiking trails for beginners to see the sights without too much effort.

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