Hike the Beehive Trail, Acadia National Park
Bar Harbor, Maine
Details
Distance
1.35 miles
Elevation Gain
512 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Austin Hodges
Some of the many reasons to add this to your list include panoramic views along entire trail, exciting technical hiking, incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and Mt Desert Island.
This 1.6 mile round trip trail starts with a moderate grade as you leave the sand beach parking area. After a half a mile you will see a rock pile and you have the option of heading strait for the slower sloping (but less views) trail ahead of you or you can turn to the right and see the steep trail up the Beehive. If you look hard you will be able to make out some of the hikers scrambling along the rocks 350 feet above you and 520 feet above sea level.
After turning right onto this trail you are presented with some switchbacks that then turn into steep steps that then turn into iron rungs to climb. If you are afraid of heights this is not the trail for you. Most of the elevation gain is during this 1/3 mile section of the trail. After reaching the summit you are rewarded with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Follow the trail along the ridge to see views of the rest of Mt. Desert Island. You are required to take the slower sloping trail down so just follow the blaze to the west and the trail loops around the beehive and meets up with the approach trail after about 3/4 of a mile.
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Reviews
This is a great hike to add if you're at Acadia for the day. It's quick and offers beautiful views. I wouldn't recommend to anyone who is scared of hikes. I would also add, proper footware is necessary especially if doing from March - May as the snow begins to melt (very slick).
5.0
Great hike right across from Sand Beach in Acadia. Note there will be crowds but this hike is worth it to tack onto your beach day in Acadia. Only a few sections with rungs but all very easily navigable and safe as long as you are okay with exposure. Quick loop can be completed in approx. 1 hour for fit hikers.
5.0
This is a nice short hike if in the area for the day. It is kind of a scaled down precipice trail. During summer days the steep portions become a bottle neck and lines develop.
4.0
Do not do this hike if you are afraid of heights! We saw a man leave his wife and turn around because of this. You're climbing almost vertically for a good portion of the hike. Although short in mileage, it is very steep so hikers tend to ascend slowly. Very thrilling but gorgeous views and VERY FUN! By far the best hike in Acadia National Park.
5.0
The beehive is such a cool and rewarding hike. You start with a cute walk in the woods, but it quickly starts to get interesting. You climb up vertical faces and over drop-offs. But for the challenge there is a huge reward. The view on top is magnificent with views of the whole east side of Acadia National Park seen. You can see some mountains, islands, and you can even hear the waves crashing onto sand beach below. If you have time to detour to the bowl lake, it's worth your while. Enjoy an easy hike down to end your wonderful adventure.
5.0
The Beehive is a popular hike in Acadia for a good reason - the unique trail full of rock climbing and iron rungs is exciting enough, but the views just add to the experience! Although this is rated as a difficult hike, if you are comfortable climbing near the edge, you should have no trouble at all. I went with a friend who does not hike frequently (or ever) and she loved it! Definitely a must-do!
5.0
Incredible hike that is breathtaking with unobstructed views and a sense of danger
5.0
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