Length: 1.2 mi (1.9 km)
Elevation Gain: 360 ft (109.7 m)
Route Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
The Beech Mountain Loop Trail in Acadia National Park is a popular location for watching the sunset. This 1.2 mi (1.9 km) moderate loop trail begins as a nicely shaded, forested path and then quickly increases in elevation up a rocky path. One highlight of this trail is about .5 mi (.8 km) into the hike. Here you will reach a series of granite slabs that provide stunning views of Long Pond and Mansell Mountain. If you continue ascending the loop trail, you will also arrive at the Beech Mountain summit and fire tower, which “provides views of Somes Sound, Echo Lake, Acadia Mountain, and other mountains on the east side of the Mount Desert Island.” (NPS)
Accessing the Beech Mountain Loop Trail in Acadia National Park
Starting Location: Beech Mountain Trailhead, Southwest Harbor, ME
GPS (DD): 44.31531, -68.34379
The Beech Mountain Loop Trail is located on the west side of Mountain Desert Island in Acadia National Park. This part of Acadia is known as the “quieter side.” The trailhead is located at the end of Beech Hill Road and provides access to the Beech Mountain Trail, Valley Trail, and Beech Cliff Loop Trail. Please note that part of this loop trail has several steep granite slopes and is not recommended in wet weather.
You will find the Beech Mountain Loop Trail Head in the northwest section of the parking lot. It is recommended that you begin your hike by staying to the right at the first junction. This will allow you to reach the Long Pond and Mansell Mountain viewpoints first. To stay on the loop trail, turn left at the next junction. (Staying straight will put you on the Beech West Ridge Trail.)
From here, you will ascend to the summit of Beech Mountain and the fire tower. Be sure to take your time as you look out at the different beautiful vistas of Acadia National Park. From the fire tower, you can access the Beech South Ridge Trail or you can continue down the Beech Mountain Trail towards the parking lot.
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 the Beech Mountain Loop Trail!
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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