Bar Harbor Shore Path
A picturesque coastal walkway offering stunning ocean vistas, charming island views, and easy access to downtown Bar Harbor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene strolls, fewer crowds
Bar Harbor Shore Path
Best Time
Serene strolls, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque coastal walkway offering stunning ocean vistas, charming island views, and easy access to downtown Bar Harbor.
"A very beautiful walk along the shore in Bar Harbor, offering breathtaking views and a sense of timelessness."
🚢 Check Cruise Ship Schedule
Avoid days with multiple cruise ships for a more peaceful walk.
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited and fills quickly, especially near downtown.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ocean Vistas
Stroll along the coast, breathing in the sea breeze and enjoying stunning views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands.
Balance Rock
Discover this fascinating glacial boulder, a testament to Maine's ancient past, with informative historical context.
Downtown Access
The path conveniently connects to Bar Harbor's charming downtown, offering easy access to shops and dining.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚢 Check Cruise Ship Schedule
Avoid days with multiple cruise ships for a more peaceful walk.
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited and fills quickly, especially near downtown.
🚶♀️ Easy, Well-Maintained Trail
Enjoy a comfortable walk with beautiful coastal scenery.
🌊 Low Tide Wonders
See the glacial boulder and exposed shoreline at low tide for a unique perspective.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚢 Check Cruise Ship Schedule
Avoid days with multiple cruise ships for a more peaceful walk.
🅿️ Arrive Early for Parking
Parking is limited and fills quickly, especially near downtown.
🚶♀️ Easy, Well-Maintained Trail
Enjoy a comfortable walk with beautiful coastal scenery.
🌊 Low Tide Wonders
See the glacial boulder and exposed shoreline at low tide for a unique perspective.
🚻 Restrooms Available
Find accessible bathrooms near the fire station for convenience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Bar Harbor Shore Path's stunning coastal scenery and easy accessibility. It's praised as a perfect, simple walk with beautiful ocean views and convenient access to downtown amenities. Some mention potential crowding on cruise ship days and parking challenges.
"A very beautiful walk along the shore in Bar Harbor. Start at the end of Bar Harbor Rd right in the parking lot (Google Maps starts you you at the other [residential] end [no parking]).
Low tide was beautiful, you can see a huge boulder dropped by the glacier that once covered Maine.
What a great place!"
Wendall Dobson
"Such a pretty path to walk on. It starts right at downtown Bar Harbor and offers beautiful views of the ocean and the nearby islands. I loved seeing the balancing rock and reading about its history. This is an out and back path or you can exit at the end and walk through the downtown area."
Neha Vl
"- easy, well maintained trail along the coast of Bar Harbor
- Lots of food and accessible bathrooms by the fire station
- parking is paid by meter or there are several lots but they fill up quick"
kelsey treanor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most convenient parking is at the end of Bar Harbor Road, near the fire station. However, this fills up quickly. Metered parking and several lots are available downtown, but be prepared for them to fill up, especially on cruise ship days.
Yes, the Shore Path conveniently starts right at downtown Bar Harbor, making it easy to combine with exploring the shops and restaurants.
While specific public transport routes directly to the path's start might be limited, Bar Harbor is a walkable town, and local shuttles may operate during peak season. It's best to check local transit information for the most up-to-date options.
The Shore Path is approximately 2.17 miles round trip, offering a pleasant walk with beautiful coastal scenery.
Generally, dogs are welcome on the Shore Path, but it's always a good idea to check local regulations and ensure your dog is leashed to respect other visitors and the environment.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Bar Harbor Shore Path is a public walkway and does not require any tickets or admission fees to access.
The Shore Path is open to the public at all hours, offering opportunities for early morning or evening strolls. However, visibility and safety are best during daylight hours.
There is no entrance fee for the Bar Harbor Shore Path. It's a free public amenity for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, many Shore Path cottages offer direct or very close access to the path, allowing for convenient enjoyment of the coastal views.
While generally open, sections of the path may occasionally close due to storm damage or maintenance. It's advisable to check local advisories if you plan to go beyond Grant Park, as erosion has impacted some areas.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire path offers stunning photo opportunities! Key spots include views of the Porcupine Islands, Balance Rock, and the charming coastline. Early morning and late afternoon light are particularly beautiful.
Yes, when cruise ships are in port, they provide a dramatic backdrop for photos along the Shore Path.
Absolutely! The natural beauty and varied scenery make it easy to capture great shots with any smartphone. Just be mindful of the sea spray.
There are no specific restrictions on personal photography on the Shore Path. However, always be respectful of private property and other visitors.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic and beautiful light for photography. Midday can be bright but still offers lovely coastal scenes.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the path itself doesn't have dining facilities, it conveniently leads directly into downtown Bar Harbor, which is packed with restaurants, cafes, and ice cream shops.
You can certainly bring your own snacks and drinks to enjoy during your walk. There are benches along the path, and the nearby parks offer picnic spots. Please remember to pack out all trash.
Accessible restrooms are available by the fire station near the downtown end of the Shore Path, offering a convenient stop.
The Shore Path is primarily a scenic walking trail and does not have dedicated cafes or snack bars directly on it. Dining options are concentrated in the adjacent downtown area.
Downtown Bar Harbor offers a wide array of dining, from casual seafood shacks and pizza places to more upscale restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Plus, its direct connection to downtown means easy access to restrooms and plenty of kid-friendly dining options like ice cream shops and casual eateries for a post-walk treat. To make the experience even smoother, consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds. Pack some snacks and drinks, and let the kids explore the shoreline at low tide. The relatively short length of the main path makes it manageable for younger children, and you can always turn back if needed. It's a simple yet memorable way to enjoy the Maine coast together.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
While parking can incur a fee, arriving early or parking a bit further out can minimize costs. The real savings come from enjoying the natural beauty and then exploring the many affordable dining options in downtown Bar Harbor, such as grabbing a slice of pizza or a casual seafood basket.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Bar Harbor Shore Path
Starting near the heart of downtown, the path meanders along the shoreline, revealing picturesque vistas at every turn. A notable feature is Balance Rock, a large glacial erratic perched precariously, offering a glimpse into the area's geological history. The path also provides excellent vantage points for observing the majestic cruise ships that frequently visit Bar Harbor, adding a unique element to the scenery.
+1While the path is generally accessible, it's worth noting that sections south of Grant Park have experienced erosion due to storms, potentially leading to closures. However, the accessible portions still offer ample beauty and enjoyment. The path's proximity to downtown means easy access to amenities like restrooms and a plethora of dining and shopping options, making it a convenient and rewarding experience for all visitors.
Navigating Crowds and Parking
To make the most of your visit, it's highly recommended to check the cruise ship schedule in advance and plan your walk for days with fewer or no ships. Early mornings and late afternoons are generally less crowded and offer beautiful lighting for photos. Parking is another common concern for visitors. The lots closest to the Shore Path's downtown access points are limited and fill up very quickly, especially during peak season and on cruise ship days. Metered parking is available, but it's also competitive. Many travelers suggest arriving early in the day or considering parking in a slightly more distant lot and enjoying a short walk to the path.
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