Ship Harbor Nature Trail

Just east of the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse on Route 102A on the southwestern side of Mount Desert Island, Maine is the Ship Harbor Nature Trail. This hiking trail provides an easy walk from the roadside to the ocean through an enchanted forested landscape. There will be numerous opportunities to take photos while in the forest as well as once you arrive at the ocean. Take note that there are some rough mixed terrain sections. Consider taking some food and refreshments for a small lunch. You will enjoy the diverse and quiet setting. Round-trip is approximately 1.3 miles (2.1 km). Parking is next to the road and convenient. The Wonderland Trail, another popular hiking trail in Acadia, is a short distance to the east before Seawall Campground.

Refer to the Hiking Safety Tips page for suggestions and rules while hiking in the park. Be sure to "leave no trace" by taking your trash and other throw-aways with you for discarding.

The villages of Bass Harbor and Bernard are close-by to the east. There are restaurants, convenience st ores with gasoline, and boat tours available depending on the season and time-of-day.

If you have a pet with you, please read the following document about requirements: Pets in the Park

Ship Harbor Trail-head GPS:
Latitude 44.231745; Longitude -68.325446

Check out Places to Stay - Lodging Options.

Weddings: Visit the weddings section for information about having a wedding ceremony within Acadia National Park or elsewhere on MDI or in any of the nearby villages and towns.

Ship Harbor Trail Location Map

Resources

  • Park Headquarters: (207) 288-3338
    P.O. Box 177, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Gem of a Location

Greg A. Hartford, photographer, author, publisherThe Ship Harbor Nature Trail is just one more reason why this section of Mount Desert Island is a real gem for family recreation. There is an intimacy experienced here with nature and the Maine coast that is hard to beat. There are less crowds here which those who come here appreciate much. The location also has several other spots worth visiting as well which means that it is easy to spend a whole day here. Check out the local lodging options for this area at Southwest Harbor or Bass Harbor.

Acadia and Bar Harbor Resource Guide