Isle au Haut MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Isle au Haut, Maine.
1. Duck Harbor Mountain Trail
SUMMIT PANORAMIC VIEWS
Duck Harbor Mountain Trail ascends to one of the highest points on Isle au Haut, offering expansive views over the island's rugged coastline and untouched wilderness. The 1.5-mile trail involves some elevation gain and rock scrambling, making it a moderately challenging hike. Hikers are rewarded with peaceful vistas and a true sense of island solitude.
2. Goat Trail
COASTAL OCEAN VISTAS
The Goat Trail is a 6.8-mile route on Isle au Haut renowned for its spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. It traverses dramatic coastal cliffs, making it ideal for those seeking scenic seascapes and the sound of crashing waves. Its moderate distance offers a rewarding experience for dedicated hikers.
3. Eben's Head Trail
SHORELINE LOOP WALK
Eben's Head Trail is an easy to moderate loop that hugs the island's dramatic shoreline, providing frequent ocean views and opportunities for spotting wildlife. The route is approachable for most hikers, making it a popular choice for a shorter walk. It's a great introduction to Isle au Haut's natural beauty.
4. Cliff Trail
RUGGED CLIFF EDGES
Cliff Trail offers a dramatic hiking experience along Isle au Haut's rugged southern coastline, taking visitors past sheer cliffs and crashing surf. The trail offers stunning ocean panoramas and a true sense of the island's wild spirit. Its rocky sections add a bit of adventure to the trek.
5. Western Head Trail
REMOTE HEADLAND PATH
Western Head Trail guides hikers to one of the southernmost points on Isle au Haut, featuring rocky beaches and sweeping sea views. Its remote location means fewer crowds and a peaceful hiking experience. The trail is best paired with adjacent routes for a longer, immersive day hike.
6. Long Pond Trail
FRESHWATER LAKE VIEWS
Long Pond Trail is a 9-mile loop that explores the tranquil shores of a mile-long freshwater lake, providing beautiful scenery and quiet surroundings. The relatively flat trail is ideal for those seeking a longer, more leisurely hike amid the island's interior. It's especially notable for solitude and birdwatching opportunities.
7. Nat Merchant Trail
CONNECTOR AND DAY HIKES
Nat Merchant Trail stretches for 5.6 miles and serves as an important connector for various day hikes across Isle au Haut. The path winds through forests, marshes, and shoreline, providing diverse scenery along the way. Its flexible routing makes it a valuable option for planning longer hikes.
8. Duck Harbor Loop
MULTI-TRAIL ISLAND CIRCUIT
The Duck Harbor Loop hike combines several of Isle au Haut's premier trails—including Duck Harbor Mountain, Goat, Cliff, and Western Head—into a 4.5-mile journey showcasing the island's best features. The loop offers varied terrain, from wooded uplands to wind-swept cliffs. It's perfect for visitors looking to see a broad cross-section of island landscapes in a few hours.
9. Acadia Mountain Trail
CLASSIC ACADIA SUMMIT
Acadia Mountain Trail, located on Mount Desert Island, is a popular hike featuring a steady ascent to panoramic views of Somes Sound and the surrounding hills. The moderate 2.5-mile loop offers challenges and rewards for hikers of many skill levels. The summit vistas and well-marked paths make it a favorite in Acadia National Park.
10. Great Head Trail
COASTAL PENINSULA TREK
Great Head Trail in Acadia National Park leads hikers along a rocky promontory overlooking the Atlantic, with breathtaking coastal and island views. The 1.6-mile loop features dramatic cliffs, wildflowers, and access to Sand Beach. Its blend of ocean scenery and relatively short distance makes it a top choice near Bar Harbor.