The best walks and hikes around Southwest Harbor
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Hiking around Southwest Harbor provides access to the trails on the "quiet side" of Acadia National Park. The region is characterized by granite mountains, dense spruce forests, and a rugged coastline along Somes Sound. The network of routes includes challenging mountain ascents with stone steps as well as gentle paths along the shore.
Best hiking trails around Southwest Harbor
- The most popular hiking route is the Mansell to Bernard Mountain via Perpendicular Trail Loop — Acadia National Park, a…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
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12
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4.14km
01:31
250m
250m
The Perpendicular and Razorback Loop offers an easy hiking experience covering 2.6 miles (4.1 km) with an elevation gain of 814 feet (248 metres). You can expect to complete this…
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12.1km
04:05
590m
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Hike the moderate 7.5-mile Mansel, Bernard, and Beech Mountain Loop in Acadia National Park, featuring diverse trails and panoramic views.
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6
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9.89km
02:57
300m
300m
Hike the moderate 6.1-mile Great Pond, Great Notch, Bernard Mountain, and Cold Brook Trail Loop in Acadia National Park.
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hikers
1.41km
00:37
190m
0m
Hike the easy 0.9-mile Beech Mountain West Ridge Trail in Acadia National Park for panoramic views and a historic fire tower.
1.49km
00:41
230m
0m
The Sluiceway Trail is a 0.9-mile hike in Acadia National Park with 768 feet of elevation gain, offering a challenging ascent through wooded
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Tips from the Community
The path from the carpark (0.4m Section) is quite rocky and would not be suitable for people uncomfortable on non-path surfaces. However, the views at the top are worth it
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Knight Nubble is a forested peak tucked away in a mossy area of the Mansell - Bernard summit region. The overgrown terrain makes this area a unique change from the bare bedrock of much of the rest of the park. There is an overlook to the east of the peak that offers views toward the center of the island. Knight Nubble makes a great place to stop for a picnic before continuing up the ridge. The ascent is a steep ladder of natural roots from the east.
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a beautiful path leads to this point - alternating soft moss and flat rocks, my descent was quite steep so I would recommend the steep path in reverse.
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The way there runs on wonderful paths made of moss and lichen, down quite steep and rocky - not to be underestimated - really great area!
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The Bernard Mountain trail makes a delightful runnable descent. Near the summit the terrain is steep but mossy, cushioning your footfalls as you bound down the mountain. Beware the boardwalk! It is short but slippery. The terrain is technical, covered in small roots and rocks, enough to keep it interesting and exciting while gradual enough for an enjoyable descent. The entire network of trails south of Bernard and Mansell are a joy to run. If you are doing the Mansell - Bernard Loop this is a great cruise to the finish.
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The summit of Bernard Mountain is tucked away in trees, but there is an overlook with a bench facing north and a visitor's logbook just to the north of the peak. Bernard Mountain is the highest summit west of Somes Sound. This hike is vastly underappreciated and well worth the trip.
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Knight Nubble is a forested peak tucked away in a mossy area of the Mansell - Bernard summit region. The overgrown terrain makes this area a unique change from the bare bedrock of much of the rest of the park. There is an overlook to the east of the peak that offers views toward the center of the island. Knight Nubble makes a great place to stop for a picnic before continuing up the ridge. The ascent is a steep ladder of natural roots from the east.
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The summit of Mansell Mountain itself is tucked away in the trees, but there is an overlook near the top of the Perpendicular Trail. The entirety of the Perpendicular Trail ascends a steep set of stairs from Long Pond carved into the mountainside and provides views of Long Pond and Beech Mountain from rock faces, forested lookouts, and rockslides.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes hiking in Southwest Harbor unique compared to Bar Harbor?
Southwest Harbor is known as the 'quiet side' of Mount Desert Island. The trails here offer a more serene experience, winding through dense spruce forests and along the rugged coastline of Somes Sound, away from the larger crowds often found around Bar Harbor.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes in the area?
Yes, the region has many gentle trails perfect for families. The Wonderland Trail is a popular 1.4-mile path leading through the woods to a rocky shoreline with excellent tide pools. Another great option is the Ship Harbor Trail, a well-maintained 1.3-mile loop that's easy for children to explore.
What are some good circular hikes near Southwest Harbor?
The area offers several excellent loop trails. For a rewarding but manageable challenge, consider the Beech Mountain Loop from Long Pond. This 3.4-mile (5.4 km) walk takes you through beautiful woodlands and offers great views from the summit.
Can I bring my dog on the trails?
Many trails in and around Acadia National Park are dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash no longer than six feet. However, some of the more strenuous trails with iron rungs or steep stone stairways, like the Perpendicular Trail, are not suitable for dogs. Always check specific trail regulations before you go.
What do other hikers think of the trails around Southwest Harbor?
The trails are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars. Hikers frequently praise the region's pristine landscapes, the stunning coastal views over Somes Sound, and the well-maintained paths that range from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs.
How many hiking trails are available around Southwest Harbor?
There is a wide variety of trails to explore, with over 150 routes mapped on komoot. These range from 74 easy walks along the coast to over 70 moderate mountain trails, ensuring there's a hike for every skill level.
Are there any hikes with particularly good views of the ocean?
Absolutely. For fantastic views over Somes Sound, the Somes Sound Overlook – Flying Mountain loop is a local favorite. It's a short, accessible hike that delivers a big scenic payoff from the summit of Flying Mountain.
I've heard about a trail with over 1,000 stone steps. What is it?
That would be the famous Perpendicular Trail. It's a strenuous but rewarding climb up Mansell Mountain. For a shorter but still challenging experience on this mountain, you could try the Perpendicular Trail – Mansell Mountain loop, which is a 2.4-mile (3.8 km) circuit.
What is the best time of year for hiking in Southwest Harbor?
Late spring through fall is the ideal time for hiking. Summer offers warm weather perfect for coastal walks, while autumn provides spectacular fall colors, especially on trails like the Beech Mountain Trail. Trails can be icy and hazardous in winter and early spring.
What kind of terrain should I expect on the trails?
The terrain is very diverse. You'll find everything from gentle, flat paths through spruce forests to rugged, rocky coastlines. Mountain trails often involve navigating granite slabs and numerous stone staircases, which can be challenging, especially in wet conditions.
Are there any good spots for a picnic after a hike?
Yes, the Seawall Picnic Area is a great choice. It offers beautiful coastal views and is the destination for the Hio Road to Seawall Picnic Area hike. It's a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the scenery after your walk.
What is Somes Sound and can I see it from the hiking trails?
Somes Sound is a large, deep body of water that nearly splits Mount Desert Island in two, often described as a fjard—a glacial embayment. Several trails, such as the Flying Mountain loop and the Acadia Mountain trail, offer spectacular overlooks with panoramic views of its granite cliffs and clear water.
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