Best Places to Walk in Bar Harbor
Best Places to Walk in Bar Harbor

Best Places to Walk in Bar Harbor

by  Ammara Younas
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2025-03-19

Table of Contents

Bar Harbor is a treasure trove of scenic beauty, and there’s no better way to experience it than on foot. With its stunning coastal views, diverse wildlife, and peaceful trails, it’s no wonder this small town draws millions of visitors each year. From leisurely walks through charming neighborhoods to rugged hikes in Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor offers trails for every type of explorer.

Is Bar Harbor a Walkable City?

Bar Harbor is a highly walkable place with many sights to see and enjoy. The town's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, and you can find many restaurants and cafes along the way, perfect for a relaxing break. Strolling through the charming streets, you’ll also discover unique shops and galleries, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal town.

Where to Walk Around Bar Harbor?

Bar Harbor offers plenty of places to walk around. Here are some of the places that you’ll love exploring while on foot:

Acadia National Park 

One of the best places to visit with many short paved trails to challenging ones, and offers gorgeous views. The trails are perfect for walking and taking in the scenery. Apart from hiking trails, the park is one of the most gorgeous national parks in the United States with spectacular views and beautiful mountains. The Loop Road Drive is perfect on its own as it offers many attractions along the way. Before visiting, make sure you have a pass which you can also get online. Recommendation: You can explore Acadia National Park, and Thunder Hole with the Best of Bar Harbor Tour!

Thunder Hole

Thunder Hole is located in Acadia National Park and is a highlight of the park. It is a small cavern that is located along the rocky eastern shoreline of Mount Desert Island. Most of the time, the waves are calm here and you won’t really hear any thunder. But with a timely visit around high tide, you can enjoy the thunderclap.

The phenomenon that happens here is when the tide is high, the waves are forced into the narrow channel. The air escapes which in turn makes a thrilling sound. You can easily reach the thunder hole via walking along the ocean path or driving around Park Loop Road. It is also wheelchair accessible and you can find the reserved spot in the parking lot.

Explore the Best of Bar Harbor with Acadia National Park & Thunder Hole!

Jordan Pond

Jordan Pond is one of the most tranquil places to be. Visit on a clear sunny day and admire the breathtaking beauty of the place. It’s a perfect place for walking and connects many trails around the area. Swimming and waterboats are strictly not allowed, but you can kayak and canoe on the pond. 

If you’re planning to hike around, it is overall 3 miles long and fairly easy. Once you’re done hiking, enjoy the famous popovers and tea in the Jordan Pond House. For getting a parking spot, it’s better to arrive early. 

Cadillac Mountain

If you’re in Bar Harbor, this place must be on your bucket list. Drive up the mountain or enjoy a hike through the pine trees. Once you reach atop, enjoy the breathtaking views of the Porcupine Islands and Mount Desert Island. If you want to experience something special, then try to arrive early in the morning and catch the first sunrise of the U.S. It will leave you feeling in awe.

Sand Beach 

Sand Beach is a part of Acadia National Park and is a gorgeous little spot. Try to arrive early, as the beach parking lot gets crowded pretty quickly, and you’ll have to park a little farther away. It is also home to a beautiful walking path known as the Great Head Trail perfect for walking. The trail offers unique views of the Sand Beach and the surrounding coastline. As you walk along the trail, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the beach, cliffs, and rocky shores, making it a perfect spot.

Downtown Streets

Downtown Bar Harbor is a perfect way to spend your time. You can do a lot here, including shopping, eating, or simply admiring the area. And while you’re there, definitely enjoy the lobsters, as they are the specialty of Bar Harbor, Maine. You can shop along the Bar Harbor Main Street, and you will find some pet-friendly shops there too. 

If you love food as much as I do, you should book the Best of Bar Harbor Food Walking Tour which will take you on a culinary journey through Bar Harbor’s iconic streets!

Explore Bar Harbor's Coastal Culinary Heritage with a Food Walking Tour!

Does Bar Harbor Have a Boardwalk? 

You can find a boardwalk connecting downtown Bar Harbor with the Nature Center at Sieur de Monts Spring (located within the Acadia National Park). This scenic boardwalk offers a leisurely walk through lush natural surroundings, providing beautiful views of the forest and nearby streams. However, there is no traditional boardwalk in Bar Harbor like you’d find in beach towns, but there are many other walkways. 

Conclusion 

To sum it all up, Bar Harbor, Maine is perfect for walking and you can’t really go wrong with the options here. From mountains to beaches, this place has got it all. Hike through the Acadia National Park or stroll along other gorgeous spots, there is always something for you to discover. Plan ahead to spend a few days here and you won’t regret it!

Related Tours

New Tour!

Best of Bar Harbor w/ Thunder Hole and Acadia National Park

Discover the pristine beauty of Bar Harbor, experience the echoing roar of Thunder Hole, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Acadia National Park

4 Hours

From $159 USD