Conquer the Beehive Loop: Acadia's Cliffside Challenge

Challenge yourself on the Beehive Loop, where steep climbs and stunning views combine for an unforgettable Acadia adventure.

Last updated: Mar 2024

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Free of charge
More than 500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
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Description

Embark on the Beehive Loop for an exhilarating hike through Acadia's iconic rung and ladder paths, offering breathtaking ocean views. Challenge yourself on the Beehive Loop, where steep climbs and stunning views combine for an unforgettable Acadia adventure. Begin your journey on the Beehive Loop with a trek across the Bowl Trail, leading to a unique hiking experience characterized by steep granite staircases, iron rungs, and exposed cliff faces. As you ascend the 450ft cliff, prepare for a physical and mental challenge rewarded with panoramic views of Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and the vast Gulf of Maine. The 1.4-mile journey, taking 1 to 3 hours, culminates at the summit, offering a serene vantage point over Acadia's rugged coastline.

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

Outdoorsy

Challenging

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Itinerary

Start at the Bowl Trail across from Sand Beach.
Follow the Bowl Trail for 0.2 miles to the Beehive Trail intersection.
Ascend the Beehive using granite staircases and iron rungs.
Reach the summit for panoramic views, then continue to the Bowl, avoiding descent via the rungs and ladders.

Location

Bar Harbor, ME 04609

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Packing List

Sturdy hiking boots
Water bottle
Weather-appropriate clothing
Camera for breathtaking shots

4.9 ● Google reviews

A technically difficult hike, but doable. This is much more accessible than the precipice trail. If you are reasonably fit and capable you can do it. If you have heights issues, then skip it

Must do hike if in Acadia NP. I’m only slightly scared of heights, this wasn’t as scary as I was thinking. The iron rungs make it possible for many to get it up it. The views are amazing and one of the best sunrises I’ve seen. Can’t get to Cadillac Mtn, go here or Gorham Mtn. Wear hiking shoes as start of hike is rock jumping. Park at Sand Beach, but get there by 9a or lot will be full.

Great views from the summit in all directions. For those looking for less of a completely vertical climb you can take the trail to the bowl first, then take the trail from there to the beehive. Still not easy, but less like Rock climbing from that direction.

Highly recommend this hike! Great views during it and on the top. Some small spots with drop-offs near the trail but not bad overall. The rungs make climbing it easier than steeper trails with lots of scrambling. Overall, a great trail if you’re looking for a bit of a challenge but definitely doable for almost everyone.

Wondeful and adventurous experience!! A very short hike but the ladders, narrow passages and almost vertical climb makes the hike a very interesting one. Not for kids and pets for sure as the warning board says at the bottom. You can cover a loop where you take the adventurous climb while going up and come from the other side where you get to see the bowl/pond and a few more beautiful spots with a very easy trail to come back at the bottom.

Show all 62 reviews