Near Schoodic Head Loop
Hop across the road from the Anvil Trail to soak up this gorgeous Schoodic Peninsula coastal landscape.
Near Schoodic Head Loop
View from Anvil Trail - a little off the actual trail.
Near Schoodic Head Loop
The Ranger Station Trail is rugged but well marked as it climbs up to the intersection with the Anvil Trail.
Near Schoodic Head Loop
Sunrise from Schoodic Loop Road turnout near Anvil Trail.
Near Schoodic Head Loop
Near the top of the Ranger Station Trail, where it connects with Anvil and East Trail, you can see Cadillac Mountain and Bar Harbor off in the distance.

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Driving Directions
Hike Route

Schoodic Head Loop

4.3 (6 Ratings)
A pleasant hike up to the highest point on Acadia's Schoodic Peninsula, Schoodic Head, and back.
2.3
mi
Distance
510
ft
Gain
easy
Difficulty
BirdingViewsWildflowersWildlife

Route Details

Flatter
Steeper
2.31mi
Distance
510ft
Elevation Gain
510ft
Elevation Loss
45%
Max Grade
436ft
High Point
17ft
Low Point
Path Type
Loop
Description
This loop starts and ends at the Blueberry Hill parking area on the Schoodic Loop Road in Acadia National Park. It begins on the Anvil Trail, just north of the parking area, which leads up both the Anvil and Schoodic Head, 440 feet. With steady, though sometimes steep, inclines through the pine forest, the first leg of this hike is exemplary. Next, this loop goes slightly past the terminus of the Anvil Trail to the overlook at the top of Schoodic Head. Here, is the perfect place to take a rest and enjoy the scenery. Next, take the Ranger Station Trail on a steeper descent from the peak. Though this is a steeper section of the trail, it is still very enjoyable. Finally, at the end of the Ranger Station Trail, the loop takes a left at Ranger Cabin Road and continues straight on the Alder Trail. This trail meanders for a little over a half a mile through lush meadows and forest. The Alder Trail then leads back onto the Schoodic Loop Road just south of the Blueberry Hill parking area.

Route Conditions

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Contributors
Daniel McCloskey