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

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

TikTok videos

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

Show directions

Packing List

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

4.9 ● Google reviews

Don Golden

a month ago

This is simply the best hike in all of Acadia National Park! It is a thrilling, fun climb using the iron rungs and ladders built right into the rock face. Once you reach the top, the massive view looking straight down over Sand Beach and the ocean is incredible. The scenery is so beautiful it doesn't even look real—just like a picture. Highly recommended if you want an unforgettable adventure and the best views while visiting Acadia!
jp huff

a year ago

Great weather made for a great morning climb. Having previously completed the via ferrata at NROCKS, this was a pretty easy climb. If you plan on taking younger children with limited climbing experience, be aware that there are sections where they must complete the climb without holding your hand. The drop below the grate you walk over is only ~15', so don't let that section scare you away. The climbing sections and back trail are well maintained and marked with blazers. ENJOY THE VIEWS!!!
Don Dude

a year ago

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
Kbug

a year ago

Be sure to dress appropriately. Hiking shoes, no loose clothing and tighten your backpack. Very steep climb and there are metal rebar steps on the rocks. As long as you take it slow and steady you'll be fine if you are comfortable with Hiking. BEAUTIFUL views and 100% worth it!
Abhishek Master

6 years ago

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.