About
Length (round trip)0.8 mi
ShapeOut-and-Back
DifficultyEasy
Typical time38 min
TrailheadMain Street, south of Bar Harbor
SurfaceLevel forest path to a shoreline
Best seasonLate spring through October; peak foliage mid-October. Many trails are icy and unmaintained in winter.
DogsLeashed / limited stretches
AccessibilityCompass Harbor Trail is mostly accessible. The trail is fairly level to the historic site, but becomes rocky and uneven near the shoreline. There is no accessible restroom at the trailhead.
What you'll see 🌄 Big views🏛️ Historic site

The Compass Harbor Trail provides an easy walk through the woods to the shore just outside the village of Bar Harbor. The land is the former estate of George B. Dorr, who was instrumental in the creation of Acadia National Park as well as its first superintendent. Explore the historic site and enjoy a dramatic shoreline with views of Frenchman Bay and Ironbound Island. Distance: 0.8 miles round trip Terrain: Forested path, rocky coastline Hike Description Start at the Compass Harbor Trailhead and travel 0.1 miles from the parking area before the first junction. Turn left at the junction and follow as the trail circles around to a dramatic shoreline over looking Frenchman Bay and Ironbound Island. From the shore, the trail continues back into the woods to the remains of the former home and grounds of the Dorr estate, including the cottage's foundation, stone steps leading down to the ocean, remnants of a saltwater pool, and the remains of gardens and apple trees. Go 0.1 past the foundation to loop back to the first junction. Continue 0.1 miles back the trailhead.

Tips
The ruins of George Dorr's house are along the way - Dorr is the man most responsible for Acadia existing. Ten minutes from town and rarely busy.
Location

Main Street, south of Bar Harbor

Other Hikers
No one has logged this trail yet.
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