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A great trail to escape the crowds at Sand Beach and explore the rocky coastline.


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Map Key

1.5

Miles

2.3

KM

88%

Runnable

145' 44 m

High

35' 11 m

Low

232' 71 m

Up

235' 72 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (3°)

17%

Max Grade (10°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Views

Overview

The Great Head Trail wraps around the rocky peninsula just east of Sand Beach. In the summer, when the crowds along the Park Loop Road can be overwhelming, Great Head offers a nice escape.

Description

The trailhead is located near the eastern end of Sand Beach. You'll run up a series of granite ledges (the hardest part of the run) before the trail flattens out. Be sure to look back and enjoy the great views of Sand Beach. Follow the trail to the southern tip of the peninsula, where there are great views of the coast. To the southwest you can see Otter Cliff in the distance. From there, the trail follows the rocky shore northeast, before looping back through the woods.

Thanks to guidebook author and photographer, James Kaiser, for sharing this trail description. If youre interested in learning more details about great day hikes, weather, camping / lodging, and geology, check out his book: .

Contacts

Shared By:

James Kaiser

Trail Ratings

  4.7 from 75 votes

#92

Overall
  4.7 from 75 votes
5 Star
71%
4 Star
27%
3 Star
1%
2 Star
1%
1 Star
0%
Recommended Route Rankings

#3

in Maine

#92

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2,930 Since Sep 1, 2015
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Photos

The view South to the sandy beach from Great Head Trail western side of the loop.
Oct 4, 2021 near Bar Harbor, ME
View from Great Head Peninsula.
Mar 24, 2016 near Bar Harbor, ME
As you hike near the point on Great Head Trail there are incredible views to the SE.
Oct 4, 2021 near Bar Harbor, ME
This amazing view is to the North hiking the eastern side of the loop just off the trail.
Oct 4, 2021 near Bar Harbor, ME
As you hike the eastern side of the loop just off the trail are incredible views of the rocky shore.
Oct 4, 2021 near Bar Harbor, ME
Interesting textures of rock, trees and shadows along the Great Head Trail.
Oct 4, 2021 near Bar Harbor, ME

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