Hike Compass Harbor Trail
Acadia National Park
Explore a historic site near Bar Harbor and enjoy a dramatic shoreline with views of Frenchman Bay and Ironbound Island.
The Compass Harbor Trail provides an easy walk through the woods to the shore just outside the village of Bar Harbor. The land is the former estate of George B. Dorr, who was instrumental in the creation of Acadia National Park as well as its first superintendent. Explore the historic site and enjoy a dramatic shoreline with views of Frenchman Bay and Ironbound Island. Distance: 0.8 miles round trip Terrain: Forested path, rocky coastline Hike Description Start at the Compass Harbor Trailhead and travel 0.1 miles from the parking area before the first junction. Turn left at the junction and follow as the trail circles around to a dramatic shoreline over looking Frenchman Bay and Ironbound Island. From the shore, the trail continues back into the woods to the remains of the former home and grounds of the Dorr estate, including the cottage's foundation, stone steps leading down to the ocean, remnants of a saltwater pool, and the remains of gardens and apple trees. Go 0.1 past the foundation to loop back to the first junction. Continue 0.1 miles back the trailhead.
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Details
30-45 Minutes
Duration, or how long a hike takes, depends on your pace, how frequently you stop, and the terrain. For an average pace, this hike takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Although this activity is free, a park entrance pass is required for all areas of the park from May 1 through October 31.
No
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Compass Harbor Trail is mostly accessible. Go straight rather than left at the first junction to utilize a fairly level trail to the historic site. The trail is rocky and uneven near the shoreline. There is no restroom at the trailhead.
Yes — Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.
No
Compass Harbor