Walk the Bar Harbor Shore Path

The Bar Harbor shore path is a simple walking trail that runs along the eastern shore of Mt. Desert Island. There's little to no elevation change since it's on the water's edge, but the views of this picturesque harbor are always worthwhile. 

Despite being a mellow walk, this is something you really have to do with each visit to Bar Harbor. If you've never visited before, there are signs along the path detailing the history on Mt. Desert Island and Acadia National Park.

I can highly recommend taking this walk at sunrise since everyone else will be on top of Cadillac Mountain. To access the path, park on the street in town by the West Street pier or Agamont Park across from the pier. From this point, you'll see a long, wooden dock to the left where the Margaret S. Todd Schooner is docked in the warm seasons and a concrete path winding around the bend. 

On your walk, you'll pass mansions, wild roses and other wildflowers, and pristine tidal areas along the shore. Follow along the path for as long as you'd like; it ends at Wayman Lane where you can either turn around and walk back on the path or follow Wayman and take a right into town to walk back on Main Street.

If you're into taking photos, this is a good place to bring a tripod to set up for long exposures or timelapse photos of the sunrise. 

For an awesome breakfast after your walk, head to Cafe This Way in town (very short walk from the end of the Shore Path). For coffee, stop by Cafe Milagro or Coffee Hound.