Otis MaineHIKING TRAILS & PLACES TO HIKE
Listed below are the best hiking trails and places to hike near Otis, Maine.
1. Beehive Loop
CHALLENGING IRON RUNG CLIMB
The Beehive Loop is an exposed, iron rung climb in Acadia National Park that offers outstanding views for those willing to take on the challenge. It is not recommended for small children, people with a fear of heights, or during wet weather conditions. The trail covers 1.90 miles in a network configuration and is rated as advanced difficulty, requiring good traction shoes.
2. Beech Mountain South Ridge Loop
PANORAMIC ISLAND VIEWS
Beech Mountain South Ridge Loop traverses a forested valley before ascending Beech Mountain where hikers can find a fire tower. The trail offers spectacular views of Long Pond, the western side of Mount Desert Island, the ocean, and outlying islands. This 2.10-mile loop is categorized as advanced difficulty for hiking enthusiasts.
3. Beech Mountain West Ridge to Valley Trail
STEEP LEDGES FIRE TOWER
Beech Mountain West Ridge to Valley Trail rewards hikers with a fire tower spectacular after climbing up steep ledges. The descent follows a more gentle path on switchbacks through the woods. This moderate 2.50-mile loop is suitable for both hiking and snowshoeing activities.
4. Sieur de Monts to Sand Beach
HISTORIC COASTAL MOUNTAIN VIEWS
The hike from Sieur de Monts to Sand Beach via Beachcroft and Champlain Mountain trails offers panoramic coastal mountain views of Mount Desert Island, Frenchman Bay, and the outer islands. The Beachcroft Trail is a historic memorial pathway constructed in 1915. This advanced 3.70-mile one-way trail showcases some of Acadia's most impressive scenery.
5. Twin Bridges Preserve
RIVERSIDE WOODED NETWORK
Twin Bridges Preserve offers many short, wooded trails with unlimited options for exploring the property along the Crooked River. From the parking lot, the Pierce Trail heads south paralleling the river before connecting to a network of five other trails that cross the property. The preserve is part of the Crooked River Forest, protecting lands in the watershed that provides clean drinking water to one-sixth of Maine's population.
6. Grotto Hill
BLUFF WITH VIEWS
Grotto Hill in Otis features unmarked ATV trails leading to a bluff with nice views. The trail takes hikers above the grotto area, providing a scenic overlook of the surrounding landscape. This trail is part of the local outdoor recreation options available in Otis.
7. Cadillac North Ridge Trail
POPULAR SUMMIT ROUTE
Cadillac North Ridge Trail is one of the top-rated hiking trails near Otis, offering access to Cadillac Mountain's summit. The trail provides hikers with sweeping views of Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay, and the surrounding islands as they ascend. This popular route attracts visitors year-round seeking to experience the first sunrise in the United States during certain times of the year.
8. Ocean Path
SCENIC COASTAL WALK
Ocean Path is a renowned coastal trail in Acadia National Park that follows the eastern shoreline of Mount Desert Island. The trail passes by famous landmarks such as Thunder Hole, Monument Cove, and Otter Cliff while providing continuous ocean views. Hikers enjoy relatively flat terrain making this an accessible option for visitors of various ability levels.
9. Precipice Trail
THRILLING VERTICAL CLIMB
The Precipice Trail is one of Acadia National Park's most challenging and thrilling hiking experiences, featuring iron rungs, ladders, and narrow ledges. Climbers ascend nearly 1,000 feet in a short distance, navigating exposed cliff faces with breathtaking views of Frenchman Bay. This trail is often closed during peregrine falcon nesting season and should only be attempted by experienced hikers without fear of heights.
10. Bubbles Trail
ICONIC TWIN PEAKS
The Bubbles Trail leads hikers to the distinctive twin dome-shaped mountains known as the North and South Bubble. From the summit of South Bubble, visitors can see the famous Bubble Rock, a glacial erratic perched precariously on the mountain's edge. The trail offers spectacular views of Jordan Pond and the surrounding landscape, making it one of the most photographed locations in Acadia.