gorham mountain to beehive?
Hi! We are supposed to be coming in on the 12th, pending shutdown implications! I am trying to plan and am trying to figure out if the Gorham Mountain trail has a path that goes to the Beehive overlook? I found the Bowl trail which I believe can lead to the Beehive as well, but didn't know which would be better/easier? I would love to see the best views but am totally not comfortable with the iron rung climbing. Thank you so much!!
The Gorham Mountain Trail and the Beehive Trail are two separate hikes in Acadia National Park, each offering fantastic views, but they differ significantly in difficulty and type of terrain.
Key points about the trails:
- Gorham Mountain Trail: This is a moderate trail with gradual elevation gain and well-marked paths. It offers excellent coastal and island views from the summit without any exposed climbs or iron rungs. The trail is family-friendly and suitable for those who prefer to avoid climbing.
- Beehive Trail: Known for its dramatic overlooks, the Beehive involves steep sections and iron rung climbs, which can be exposed and challenging. It’s not recommended for anyone uncomfortable with heights or scrambling on metal rungs.
- Bowl Trail: The Bowl Trail can connect hikers to the Beehive, but it leads into the same exposed sections, so if avoiding the iron rungs is important, it doesn’t provide a safer alternative to reach the Beehive overlook.
Recommendations for someone looking for the best views without climbing:
- Stick to the Gorham Mountain Trail for panoramic vistas of Sand Beach, Great Head, and surrounding islands. It’s scenic and rewarding while remaining safe and comfortable for all skill levels.
- Consider combining the Gorham Mountain Trail with part of the Ocean Path for additional coastal views without the challenge of steep climbs.
- If you want a shorter hike with elevated viewpoints, South Bubble via Jordan Pond also provides spectacular views with minimal risk.
In summary, there is no direct, easy trail from Gorham Mountain to the Beehive that avoids climbing. For a relaxed hike with excellent scenery and no iron rungs, Gorham Mountain is your best choice. The Beehive and Bowl Trail are better suited for experienced hikers comfortable with exposure and scrambling.
More Acadia National Park Travel Questions
- hiking in Acadia NP
- Only 1 day
- 4 nights in early June with kids (5, 7, 9)
- Current closures/gov't. shutdown
- Questions on July 2025 trip
- Best time to see leaves change in park
- Blackwoods campground
- Bass Harbor Lighthouse question
- Acadia Pass Question
- Best Lodging
- Parking in park Sat late Sept
- Four nights in the Acadia area last week of August
The attractions mentioned in this question
Popular Destinations
Popular Travel Questions
- Hotel in Billings
- Mother's Day Brunch on 5/12/24 - Any suggestions?
- Joshua natl park
- Apres Ski/Happy Hour and Restaurants
- Cabin in winter
- Thanksgiving open restaurants?
- Getting to Jacksonville FL Airport
- Best Area to Stay Rosemary Beach
- Orlando airport to Port Canaveral transportation
- Safe Hotels near CBU
- Miramar or Destin ?
- How to get from RrTo Lodge