Length: 1.4 mi (2.3 km)
Elevation Gain: 127 ft (38.7 m)
Route Type: Out and back
Difficulty: Easy
Baker Island is one of the crown jewels of Acadia National Park. This 162-acre island is only accessible to the public via a 5-hour National Park ranger-guided cruise. This tour typically runs from late June to early September. While hiking on the island, you will see the 200-year-old Gilley family farmstead and the Baker Island Lighthouse. You will also enjoy distant vistas of the Otter Cliffs, Sand Beach and Great Head during your cruise. (NPS)
Accessing Baker Island in Acadia National Park
Starting Location: Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co., Bar Harbor, ME
GPS (DD): 44.39130, -68.20472
To access Baker Island, you must first book a tour via a cruise boat from the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company. They recommend “arriving at the dock 45-60 minutes before departure. Municipal paid parking is available in downtown Bar Harbor and the town pier.” (Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.) From here, you will take a boat 9 miles to Baker Island and will then board a smaller skiff boat to get to the shore of Baker Island. There are lots of landscape photography opportunities from the boat and on the island.
Find Your Favorite Location
No matter where you stop, Acadia National Park provides amazing landscape photography opportunities. Be sure to take your time and find your favorite location along the way. If you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife! Don’t forget to add detailed macro shots, change your perspective, and most importantly have fun.
Before making your trip, consider checking the official Acadia National Park website or contacting the park’s visitor center for the most up-to-date information on trail conditions, accessibility, and any recent changes. As with any visit to a national park, it’s important to follow park regulations, practice “Leave No Trace” principles, and prioritize safety while exploring this beautiful area. If you are able to go, I hope you enjoy your time photographing Baker Island!
Happy Travels!
Juventa, Co-Owner, National Park Photographer
Want to learn more about Acadia National Park? Check out these maps, guides & books:
- Best Easy Day Hiking Guide and Trail Map Bundle: Acadia National Park
- Carriage Roads of Acadia: A Pocket Guide
- Moon Acadia National Park: Seaside Towns, Fall Foliage, Cycling & Paddling (Travel Guide)
- Acadia National Park: The Complete Guide (Color Travel Guide)
- Historic Acadia National Park: The Stories Behind One of America’s Great Treasures
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