Conquer Beehive Trail in Acadia National Park
The Beehive Trail in Acadia National Park is a thrilling hike that offers hikers a unique and adventurous experience. Known for its steep ascents and iron rungs, ladders, and handholds that help hikers navigate the rocky terrain, Beehive ranks as one of my favorite of all time. The trail ascends 520 feet and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Sand Beach and the Atlantic Ocean. Expect to spend about 1-3 hours to complete.
The Beehive trail at Acadia National Park was created in 1917. It was built and carefully designed to lead hikers through boulder fields and up cliffs, offering them a challenge like no other. Like its sister trail, Precipice Loop, Beehive Trail draws similarities to the paths of the mountains of Switzerland.
As you begin the hike, the trail begins with a long, slight elevation, before reaching the boulders. This is where your adventure begins. As you walk over rails, cling onto rungs and climb over rocks, each level of elevation will present impressive photos, improving as you climb. The trail, albeit short, is incredibly fun, and hides a bit of illusion. There will be a time or two when you think you reached the top, only to realize there are more rungs to clear.
The climb to the top can be steep and a little daunting, but the thrill of navigating the rugged terrain makes it a pretty awesome experience. The trail ascends to a height of 520 feet, and once you reach the top, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment as you stand both feet atop the summit.
Cost of Adventure
- Per vehicle: Free
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Total distance: 1.4 miles
- Calories burned: 150 – 350
- Time suggested: 1-3 hour
- Family friendly: NO
Challenge Yourself
Rungs and ladder are a big part of the Beehive hike. They are what makes this trail so adventures and memorable.
Your challenge here is to make it to the top and locate the Beehive Summit Elevation Stake (shown below). Good luck.
Find Great Photo Ops
Beehive Trail is loaded with scenic views and creative photo opportunities. Whether you are climbing a ladder or scaling the next level of elevation, you are just a step away from brag-worthy photos.
