Schoodic Point Acadia National Park
Discover the serene 'quiet side' of Acadia National Park, offering dramatic coastal views and fewer crowds. A hidden gem for nature lovers and photogr...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Schoodic Point Acadia National Park
Best Time
Magical light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the serene 'quiet side' of Acadia National Park, offering dramatic coastal views and fewer crowds. A hidden gem for nature lovers and photographers.
"Schoodic Point is a hidden gem on the quieter side of Acadia National Park, and well worth the drive for anyone visiting coastal Maine."
🚗 Drive the Loop Road
Enjoy the 6-mile scenic drive with plenty of pull-offs for photos and short hikes. :car:
🥾 Explore the Trails
Discover hidden coves and unique landscapes on trails like Raven's Nest and Sundew Trail. :hiking_boot:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Schoodic Point
Schoodic Peninsula
Dramatic rocky shores meet the Atlantic, offering breathtaking ocean vistas and crashing waves. A photographer's dream.
Schoodic Loop Road
Schoodic Peninsula
A scenic 6-mile drive with numerous overlooks, secluded trails, and stunning coastal views. Perfect for biking too.
+1
Raven's Nest
Schoodic Peninsula
A unique viewpoint offering expansive ocean panoramas and a sense of wild, untamed beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the 'Quiet Side'
Timing is Key for Views
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive the Loop Road
Enjoy the 6-mile scenic drive with plenty of pull-offs for photos and short hikes.
🥾 Explore the Trails
Discover hidden coves and unique landscapes on trails like Raven's Nest and Sundew Trail. :hiking_boot:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Many spots offer perfect picnic settings with stunning ocean views.
📸 Capture the Light
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for unforgettable photos.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive the Loop Road
Enjoy the 6-mile scenic drive with plenty of pull-offs for photos and short hikes.
🥾 Explore the Trails
Discover hidden coves and unique landscapes on trails like Raven's Nest and Sundew Trail. :hiking_boot:
🧺 Pack a Picnic
Many spots offer perfect picnic settings with stunning ocean views.
📸 Capture the Light
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for unforgettable photos.
🤫 Seek Solitude
Visit during weekdays or off-season for a truly tranquil experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Schoodic Point's stunning, dramatic coastal scenery and its peaceful, less crowded atmosphere compared to the main Acadia park. It's praised as a hidden gem perfect for photography, picnics, and enjoying nature's raw beauty. Some note that while it's worth the drive, planning for food and being cautious on the rocks are key.
"There simply aren't enough words to express how beautiful this quieter section of Acadia is. The loop road is a great bike ride with stops along the way and new trails to explore. I've been coming to the area for summers since 1970 and it is a must see. You cannot take a bad photo anywhere there and the views of Mount Desert Island, Mount Cadillac and Frenchman Bay are spectacular. Also, you can use the same park pass at both sections."
Katherine Christ-Janer
"Schoodic Point in Winter Harbor is a hidden gem on the quieter side of Acadia National Park, and well worth the drive for anyone visiting coastal Maine. The views are absolutely stunning—panoramic ocean vistas, dramatic rocky shores, and crashing waves that make every visit feel magical, even on a foggy day. Parking is easy, and there’s plenty of space to sit and soak up the peaceful surroundings, far from the usual crowds found elsewhere in Acadia.Whether coming for a picnic, some unforgettable photos, or just to spot seagulls and lobster boats, Schoodic Point is the spot for a tranquil escape in nature. The six-mile loop road provides easy access for exploring, and there are lots of hiking and biking opportunities nearby if you feel adventurous. Highly recommended for anyone who loves scenic coastlines, quiet beauty, and the raw energy of the Atlantic"
Jennifer St.Clair
"We arrived early and were the first ones in the park on a Friday. The entrance was clearly marked, as were the points of interest along the way. We spent about 4 hours and were able today complete the loop, including some short trails and lots of exploring on the rocks. We did not hike many trails. There is a road to the top of the summit that offers breathtaking views. It is steep, gravel, and one lane, but it was pleasant and not too difficult on the car up or down. There were 4 adults and 4 kids (ages 7-17) in our group and everyone enjoyed climbing on the rocks, exploring, and walking on the trails. This part of Acadia is much calmer and quieter than the larger part of the park and is worth a visit. The waves at the point were awesome! The institute on the property was very informative and enjoyable."
Michelle K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Schoodic Point is located on the Schoodic Peninsula, about a 1-hour drive from Bar Harbor. Take ME-3 E to US-1 N, then follow signs for Acadia National Park and the Schoodic Peninsula.
Yes, there is parking available at Schoodic Point and along the Schoodic Loop Road. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is recommended to secure a spot.
Absolutely! The Schoodic Loop Road is a fantastic 6-mile route for biking, offering beautiful ocean views and access to various points of interest.
Yes, Schoodic Point and the entire Schoodic Peninsula are part of Acadia National Park, often referred to as the 'quiet side' of the park.
Yes, a valid Acadia National Park pass is required for entry to Schoodic Point, just like the main section of the park on Mount Desert Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Schoodic Point requires the same Acadia National Park entrance pass as the main section. You can purchase a 7-day pass or an annual pass.
Schoodic Point and the Schoodic Loop Road are generally open year-round, though services may be limited in the off-season. Check the official Acadia National Park website for the most current information.
Reservations are not typically required for general entry to Schoodic Point, but it's always a good idea to check the NPS website for any alerts or special conditions, especially during peak season.
Yes, restrooms are available at various points along the Schoodic Loop Road and near popular overlooks.
While many overlooks offer accessible viewing areas, some trails and rocky terrain may be challenging. The Schoodic Loop Road itself is paved and suitable for wheelchairs.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy scenic drives, hiking, photography, picnicking, and simply soaking in the dramatic coastal views. You can explore trails like Raven's Nest and Sundew Trail. +1
Schoodic Point is known for being much less crowded than the main Mount Desert Island section of Acadia, offering a more peaceful experience.
The entire coastline offers incredible photo opportunities. Schoodic Point itself, Raven's Nest, and various overlooks along the loop road are highly recommended.
Swimming is not generally recommended directly at Schoodic Point due to rough waves and rocky shores. Nearby beaches on Mount Desert Island offer swimming opportunities.
Keep an eye out for seabirds, seals, and potentially lobster boats offshore. The natural environment is rich with coastal wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Schoodic Point. It's best to pack a picnic or dine in nearby Winter Harbor or explore options on Mount Desert Island.
The charming town of Winter Harbor, located just a short drive away, offers local eateries and cafes.
Yes, picnicking is highly encouraged! There are many scenic spots along the loop road and at overlooks perfect for a meal with a view.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (sunrise and sunset) provides stunning light. Foggy days can create dramatic, moody scenes, while clear days offer expansive ocean views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the vast ocean vistas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife or distant lighthouses. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions.
Experiment with different angles on the rocks, capture the movement of the waves, and look for unique compositions with the coastline and sky.
Drone usage in Acadia National Park is subject to strict regulations. Always check the official NPS website for current drone policies before flying.
Its dramatic rocky coastline, powerful waves, expansive ocean views, and fewer crowds make it an ideal spot for landscape and nature photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks, making it a budget-friendly and enjoyable outing. Look for shorter, family-friendly trails like the Sundew Trail for a gentle introduction to the peninsula's nature. The open spaces and dramatic scenery will captivate children's imaginations, offering a memorable day trip away from the busier parts of the park.
📸 Photographers
Visit during sunrise or sunset for the best light, and don't shy away from foggy days, which can create incredibly atmospheric and moody images. Key spots like Schoodic Point itself and Raven's Nest offer iconic views. The Schoodic Loop Road provides numerous pull-offs with varied perspectives. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive seascapes and a tripod for low-light photography.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers
Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be rocky and uneven. Pack water and snacks, and take your time to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of this less-traveled part of Acadia.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Quiet Side' Experience
This makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature without the overwhelming crowds often found at more popular national park sites. +1Travelers often highlight the Schoodic Loop Road as a key feature, a 6-mile paved road that winds through the peninsula, offering numerous overlooks and access points to trails.
+1 This road is perfect for a leisurely drive, a bike ride, or even a walk, allowing visitors to easily explore the diverse landscapes and stunning ocean vistas. The contrast with the main park area is a significant draw for many, providing a different, yet equally beautiful, perspective of Acadia's rugged charm. When visiting, embrace the slower pace. Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots, or simply find a comfortable rock to sit on and watch the powerful Atlantic waves crash against the shore. The raw beauty and peaceful atmosphere are what make Schoodic Point a cherished gem for those in the know.
Photography Opportunities at Schoodic Point
Whether you're capturing the raw power of the waves or the serene beauty of a foggy morning, the landscape provides a dynamic backdrop. Key spots for photography include Schoodic Point itself, where you can get close to the crashing waves, and Raven's Nest, which offers panoramic views.
+1 Photographers often recommend visiting during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic lighting, but even a foggy day can yield incredibly atmospheric and moody images. For the best results, consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping vistas and a telephoto lens for details like distant boats or seabirds. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light conditions and to achieve sharp images of the moving water. Remember to be cautious when exploring the rocky areas, as they can be slippery.
Exploring the Schoodic Peninsula Trails
Popular trails include the Sundew Trail, a relatively easy loop that showcases diverse coastal flora, and the Raven's Nest Trail, which leads to a spectacular overlook with expansive ocean views.
These trails are generally less crowded than those on Mount Desert Island, allowing for a more peaceful hiking experience. Remember to wear sturdy footwear, bring water, and be prepared for uneven terrain. Checking the park's trail maps beforehand will help you plan your route and make the most of your exploration.
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