State: Maine
Location: Acadia National Park
Length, Round Trip: 2 miles
Trail Type: Out and Back
Minimum Elevation: 0 feet
Elevation Change: 525 feet
Best Season: Year-Round
Difficulty: Moderate
Usage: Moderate
Somesville Pond near Acadia Forest
Trail Information
The Gorham Mountain Trail will treat you to the spectacular vistas of Acadia National Park. The trail ascends to a height of only 525 feet above sea level. You are close enough to the shore to enjoy the wildlife that thrives in the area.
Shortly after beginning your hike you will see a plaque that honors a man who was instrumental in the early development of the Acadia trail system. The trail splits, follow the left fork to reach Gorham Mountain. The trail soon reaches what is known as Gorham’s false summit that offers panoramic views including Otter Point, Otter Cliffs, Baker Island and Cranberry Islands to the south. Looking north you will see Frenchman’s Bay and Egg Rock Island. Between Otter Point and Egg Rock look for the tiny island named Old Soaker. Behind Old Soaker, the shoreline in the distance is Schoodic Peninsula.
As you continue to ascend, the views become better and better. Look southeast for Otter Creek, a small village and Dorr Mountain beyond the village. Looking to the northeast, you will be able to see the cliffs of Cadillac Mountain which are 1,530 feet above sea level. Retrace your steps for a different perspective of the landmarks and to return to the trailhead.
Directions
From Bar Harbor:
Enter the park at Hull’s Cove. Follow the signs for Park Loop Road. Just beyond Thunder Hole is a parking lot for Gorham Mountain. Park here.
During the off season, you will have to remain on SR 3 past Hull’s Cove. Bear left on Schooner Head Road. Travel 3 miles and take a right at a stop sign then turn left into the Gorham lot.
