The Beehive Trial is a short hike that offers some amazing views of Sand Beach, Newport Sound and Beehive Lagoon. It is not an easy trail to hike due to its rapid ascent, but there is alternative route along the Bowl Trail. There is easy parking with restrooms at the Sand Beach parking lot.
Location:
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Acadia National Park, Maine
The trail head is off Park Loop Road which is a one-way road headed south from HWY 3. There is a parking lot for Sand Beach on the left side of the road which is the closest parking lot to the trail head. The trail head is just before the parking lot on the right hand side of the road. There are bathrooms and a water fountain near the parking lot for Sand Beach. |
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The Hike:
There are two ways to reach the summit. The first way is to use the Beehive Trail to reach the top. Overall the hike is not very long but the hike becomes difficult about halfway up. The trail starts off very smooth but after about a quarter mile the trail starts ascending very quickly. Toward the top, the trail becomes no more than a ledge in the rock face. There are some metal ladders in the cliff wall to help climb from ledge to ledge. During almost the entire hike you can see Newport Cove and Sand Beach. The Beehive Trail does not lend itself to descent because of the ladders. The trail is also very narrow which could lead to backups when trying to pass other hikers.
An easier way to the top is to use the Bowl Trail. Shortly into the hike, the trail forks with the Beehive Trail going right and the Bowl Trail continuing straight. You can take the bowl trail to the second fork and take a right on Beehive Trail which goes to the top. There are not any special views from the Bowl Trail, but it is easier to hike and is more suited to inexperiences hikers or people hiking with pets.
An easier way to the top is to use the Bowl Trail. Shortly into the hike, the trail forks with the Beehive Trail going right and the Bowl Trail continuing straight. You can take the bowl trail to the second fork and take a right on Beehive Trail which goes to the top. There are not any special views from the Bowl Trail, but it is easier to hike and is more suited to inexperiences hikers or people hiking with pets.
Trail Info:
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See interactive map for trail locations and general elevation information.
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Tips:
- There are bathrooms and water fountains at Sand Beach that you can use before the hike.
- Bring snacks and water for the hike.
- If you are inexperienced, have children or pets with you, or are not it great physical shape, use the Bowl Trail to Beehive Trail ascent.
- On a sunny day there will not be much shade toward the top. If you plan to stay at the top for an extended period, sunscreen or long sleeves could be a good idea.
- Allow 1-2 hours for the hike unless you plan on hiking very quickly.
Pictures:
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Questions/Comments:
The Crew:
Sean, Matt, Mark, and Caleb