Pets allowed
Not Allowed
Elevation Gain
450.00 ft (137.16 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
1.60 mi (2.57 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

The Beehive is a spectacular combination of hiking and rock climbing, requiring visitors to cling to iron rungs drilled directly into bedrock as they ascend the rocky dome that looms over the southeast corner of Mount Desert Island in Acadia National Park. It’s a strenuous route with a good deal of exposure, making it unsuitable for children or visitors afraid of heights. Fortunately, these hikers can follow the Bowl Trail up and around the northwest side of the Beehive to enjoy the views as well. For anyone comfortable on the edge, the Beehive is an absolute must.

Begin hiking along the Bowl Trail, a well-trodden path through the woods that quickly reaches an intersection with the Beehive Trail. Less adventurous hikers will continue along the Bowl Trail straight ahead, first reaching the small namesake lake (the Bowl) before looping up to the summit of the Beehive. Those looking for an extra challenge can turn right onto the Beehive Trail to begin their climb.

Very quickly, the trail begins climbing the southern face of the Beehive. It switchbacks directly up the cliff, and hikers will need to use iron rungs, railings, and grates to navigate to the peak successfully. The granite face is worn smooth by wind and water, so it is imperative that this trail only be attempted in dry conditions. While no actual rock climbing skills are necessary to enjoy this hike, visitors must be comfortable with exposure.

Once you reach the top, great views of Sand Beach and many of the surrounding bays can be found. The Bowl comes into view as you begin your gradual descent, and a short spur leads to its pleasant shores. Continue along the southwest shore to connect back to the trailhead or follow signs for Gorham Mountain for a longer loop.

Although it's only 1.6 miles round trip, the strenuous nature of this hike (and the occasional traffic jam) means visitors will want to budget one to two hours for this hike. Only uphill travel is allowed on the Beehive Trail, so once you start, you must commit to finishing the route.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Pros

Great views. Thrilling climb. No rock climbing experience necessary.

Cons

Can be crowded. Very exposed.

Trailhead Elevation

72.00 ft (21.95 m)

Features

Rock climbing
Bird watching
Wildlife
Big vistas
Wildflowers

Typically multi-day

No

Location

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Comments

09/04/2018
Loved this trail! Use a small backpack to haul cameras drinking water so they are out of the way while climbing. It takes two hands. My sister and I climbed this...our husbands were too afraid of the heights.
04/27/2017
Best completed immediately following the Great Head Loop Trail, as you will be treated to great views of the entire Great Head hike you just conquered along with Newport Cove and Sand Beach. The trailhead for the Beehive Trail is located directly across the street from the Sand Beach parking lot. The proper path can be a bit confusing, but you should quickly notice the blue painted arrows showing you the way.

It is advised not to attempt this climb in wet and damp conditions, as the iron rungs are extremely slippery and dangerous when not dry.
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