Easy hikes

Question

Trying to string together some easy hikes for hubby and I during our three day stay near Acadia. Our hiking days are sadly coming to an end and easy is now our jam. Any suggestions are welcome….prob 4-6 hours daily. TIA!

Answer

Acadia National Park offers a variety of easy, scenic trails that are perfect for a relaxed three-day hiking itinerary. Since you’re looking for easier hikes that can fill 4-6 hours of walking daily, it’s best to combine shorter trails and carriage roads that are relatively flat, well-maintained, and accessible.

Here are some suggestions for easy hikes and walking loops:

Jordan Pond Path: A flat, 3.3-mile loop around Jordan Pond. It’s very scenic with views of the Bubbles mountains and easy on the legs. Allow extra time to stop at Jordan Pond House for their famous popovers and tea.
Carriage Roads: The park has over 45 miles of crushed stone carriage roads. These are wide, flat, and car-free. You can walk sections from Bubble Pond or Eagle Lake, adjusting distance to your comfort. Renting bikes is also an option if you want to cover more ground.
Ocean Path: About 4 miles round-trip from Sand Beach to Otter Point. It hugs the coastline, offering stunning ocean views, and is mostly flat with some gentle inclines. You can combine it with a stop at Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff.
Pretty Marsh Loop (near Bar Harbor): A short, flat, 2-mile loop along the water with marsh views. Perfect for a gentle morning walk or to mix into a longer day on carriage roads.

Sample daily itinerary for 4-6 hours:

Day 1: Ocean Path to Otter Point, stopping at Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff. Combine with some carriage road walking near the park loop road to lengthen the day.
Day 2: Jordan Pond Path in the morning. In the afternoon, explore carriage roads around Eagle Lake or Bubble Pond. Lunch at Jordan Pond House if desired.
Day 3: Mix shorter carriage road sections, like Pretty Marsh Loop or Eagle Lake, with a visit to Sieur de Monts Nature Center for accessible garden paths and quiet walking areas.

Footwear and gear suggestions:

Good walking shoes or lightweight hiking shoes are sufficient; no need for heavy boots.
Hiking poles are optional but can help with balance on slightly uneven paths.
Bring water, snacks, and layered clothing as the weather can change quickly in late September.

These trails provide a combination of coastal views, lakeside scenery, and gentle forest walking while keeping the experience easy and enjoyable. You can pace yourselves and still experience the beauty of Acadia without strenuous climbs.