The Ocean Path Trail In Acadian National Park Is Perfect For Beginners

An afternoon spent hiking on one of Maine’s scenic trails is the perfect way to relax and reconnect with nature, and you certainly don’t need to be an expert hiker. Here’s a beautiful and scenic trail in Maine’s Acadia National Park that’s perfect for beginners:

Newbies and hiking experts alike will love the views and features along the Ocean Path trail in Acadia National Park. To find the trail head, park in the Upper Sand Beach parking lot, and walk to the south end.

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The trail is just 2.2 miles each way, and the elevation gain is only about 345 feet, so it’s a pretty easy stroll that’s suitable for most hikers.

Evan Fernald/Alltrails

Along the way, you’ll enjoy some stunning scenery and incredible ocean views.

Ken McCormick/Alltrails

After about a mile, you’ll come to some granite stairs that lead down to a viewing platform. From there, you can make your way out to Thunder Hole, where you’ll see waves spraying up to 40 feet in the air.

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Thunder Hole is mesmerizing, and a little bit terrifying. Waves crash into the little inlet cut into the rock, and blast into a small cavern below. As the air and water is pushed back out, it makes a huge clapping noise, kind of like thunder.

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Continue along the path, and you’ll soon come to Monument Cove. This is a popular spot for photography, and you can certainly see why!

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Just past Monument Cove is Otter Cliffs, the end of your journey. You’ll see some incredible ocean vistas, and might even catch sight of rock climbers on the cliffs.

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Plan to devote plenty of time for your hike on Ocean Path. It’s so scenic that you’ll likely spend some time taking lots of photos, and you’ll be mesmerized by the natural beauty found here.

Heejin Kim/Google

When you’ve finally got your fill of the fresh air and stunning scenery, head back the same way you came for another 2.2 miles.

Richard Abrams/Google

Have you hiked the Ocean Path trail? Tell our readers about your adventure! Learn more about Acadia National Park on its website, and plan to visit soon!