Bar Harbor 10/3-10/7

Question

Hi,

We have recently learned that Campobella Island is about 2.5 hours from BH. We know we will need our passports. We are trying to figure out if this is a doable day trip. We would like to see the lighthouses. I am intrigued in hiking over to the Head Harbor light at low tide, but not sure how much time that takes. From what I have researched it is not easy. Wondering what recommendations anyone has on what to see if that is not possible. Thanks for any suggestions.

Answer

Visiting Campobello Island from Bar Harbor as a day trip is possible, but it will be a long day. The drive is approximately 2.5 hours one way, plus time at the border crossing, so you are looking at a minimum of 5–6 hours of driving round-trip. Make sure everyone in the vehicle has valid passports, as you will be crossing the U.S.–Canada border.

Visiting Lighthouses on Campobello:

The most notable lighthouse is the Head Harbour Lightstation. While it is technically accessible, reaching it on foot at low tide is challenging, often involving scrambling over rocky terrain and tidal flats. Depending on your pace and conditions, this hike could take 1–2 hours one way, and it’s not recommended for inexperienced hikers or those with mobility concerns.
Alternate easier options include viewing the lighthouse from nearby viewpoints or taking short walks along marked coastal paths on the island.
Other accessible points include Herring Cove and the Roosevelt Campobello International Park, which offers scenic views and historical context without strenuous hiking.

Alternative Recommendations if the Head Harbour Light hike is too difficult:

Explore the Roosevelt Campobello International Park, which includes walking trails, gardens, and the historic Franklin D. Roosevelt summer home.
Check out Lubec’s West Quoddy Head Light in Maine, about an hour and a half drive from Bar Harbor. It’s one of the most iconic lighthouses in the area, accessible with short walks and offers dramatic coastal views.
Consider shorter lighthouse stops along the Maine coast while heading toward or returning from Lubec, such as the Bass Harbor Head Light in Mount Desert Island itself, which is easier to reach.

Practical Tips:

Start early in the morning if attempting Campobello, to maximize daylight and avoid rushing at the border.
Check the tide schedule if you are considering coastal walks or low-tide access hikes, as conditions can change rapidly.
Be mindful of seasonal hours; some facilities on Campobello and lighthouses may have limited access in early October.

In summary, Campobello is doable as a long day trip if you are prepared for extensive driving and border crossing, but if your goal is to see lighthouses and enjoy scenic walks without strenuous hiking, consider alternatives closer to Bar Harbor such as Bass Harbor Head Light or West Quoddy Head Light.

Bar Harbor 10/3-10/7

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