For many visitors, the Precipice Trail Hike in Acadia National Park, Maine, is a must-do. It was certainly high on our list and quickly became a favorite. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan your own adventure.
About the Precipice Trail Hike
The Precipice Trail is one of Acadia National Park’s most iconic and popular hikes. Its challenge and stunning views were among the highlights of our trip. Together with the Beehive hike, these trails are known for their exposed paths. While Precipice is the more renowned and demanding one, I also highly recommend trying the Beehive if time permits.
Best Times to Tackle the Precipice Trail
The optimal time to hike the Precipice Trail is from late spring to autumn when the weather is favorable. This is crucial due to the slick rocks and trail exposure. Aim for early mornings to avoid crowds since sections of the trail are one-way. Alternatively, late afternoon can be quieter, but be sure to finish before sunset to avoid navigating in the dark, even with a headlamp.
Getting There
You can access the Precipice Trail parking lot directly from Park Loop Road within Acadia National Park. It’s just a 10-minute drive (4 miles) from Bar Harbor, Maine. The parking lot holds about 20 spots, which fill up quickly. We arrived around 6:30 AM and were the first ones there. Note that while the trailhead is outside the park’s entrance station, a fee is required from May 1st to October 31st. Display your pass if you’ve already entered the park.
Hiking the Precipice Trail
Distance: 2.6 Miles (0.9 to summit)
Elevation Gain: 1,053 ft.
Average Time: 2 hours
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Hard
The Precipice Trail is more akin to “non-technical” climbing than a conventional hike. You’ll encounter narrow cliff walkways, metal rung staircases, and metal poles to guide your way. If you’re afraid of heights, exposed ledges, or have poor footwear, reconsider this hike—it comes with serious risks, including fatalities.
You’ll need some upper body strength for this trail, as it requires climbing various obstacles right from the start. The steep ascent brings you quickly to challenging spots, but the early obstacles help prepare or weed out hesitant hikers. As you climb, the trail offers breathtaking views, especially once you reach a bridge where the exposure becomes evident.
About 0.4 miles into the hike, you’ll reach a fork. Follow the sign for the Precipice Trail to the left, which will later merge with the Orange & Black Trail. This section is where the hike gets particularly thrilling with more exposed areas and vertical climbs using metal rungs.
The ascent continues to be challenging but immensely rewarding. Starting early allowed us to avoid crowds, which can slow you down and make the trail less enjoyable. The ledge narrows, and you’ll find metal rungs on the ground to prevent slipping. The views from these precarious spots are truly remarkable.
Finally, you’ll reach the summit of Mount Champlain. Take a moment to relax, enjoy the scenery, and refuel with a snack. For the descent, follow the signs for the Orange and Black Trail. This route isn’t as exposed and will quickly take you back to the parking lot.
If you’re up for more adventure, consider tackling the Beehive Trail afterward. While it’s possible to combine both hikes, it’s best to climb Beehive from the start, which might require a round trip or parking another car at the Beehive Trailhead.
Tips and FAQs
– Always check the weather and trail status. Slippery rocks can be deadly, and the trail may close due to Peregrine Falcon nesting.
– Hike up, not down. Since COVID-19, the trail is one-way, which is safer and more practical.
– Start early to avoid crowds and secure parking. We noticed the difference in experience when we did the Beehive hike later in the day.
– Wear secure hiking boots with good grip to navigate the slippery rocks safely.
– Bring snacks, plenty of water, and sunscreen. The trail is strenuous and exposed to direct sunlight.
Other Posts You May Like
– Visiting Katahdin Woods and Waters NM
– Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain
– Guide to Beehive Hike Acadia
– Guide to Jordan Cliff Hike – Acadia
Enjoy your adventure on the Precipice Trail!