Be Sure To Hike Up Bald Peak and Parkman Mountain

Bald Peak & Parkman Mountain Overview

Don’t be fooled by the fact that this trail starts with a slight descent from the trailhead. After about 0.2 miles, you’ll be trekking uphill, and your legs will be on fire! By combining Bald Peak and Parkman Mountain into one hike, you’re able to see the view from two different peaks! Taking in the beauty of Acadia National Park with two different perspectives. Though this hike is moderately difficult, it comes in at 2.7 miles, making it doable for most fitness levels. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to complete; it’s often the shorter, steeper hikes that take hikers by surprise!

It’s no secret that Acadia National Park is one of my favorite places to hike! I’m thrilled that you’re thinking about planning a trip there. In all my trail descriptions I try to be as real as possible, so you know what’s coming. We’ve all had that moment where every trail review falls in the lines of “beautiful hike, highly recommend” and then we get there and it absolutely kicks our ass, but you’ll get unfiltered honesty from me!

Bald Peak & Parkman Mountain Trail Specs

Length: 2.7 Miles
Bald Peak: 974 feet tall
Parkman Mountain: 942 feet tall
Elevation Gain: 741 feet
Type: Loop & Connector
My Rating: Moderate
Dog Friendly: Yes
Would we do it again: Absolutely

What To Expect

Starting at the Sargent Mountain Trailhead, this trail pulls you in with an easy decline to start, before waking you right up with a steep incline after passing a couple of horse crossings. You’ll also notice, as you head uphill, that instead of being surrounded by forest cover like you were near the stream, the hike is much more exposed.

I think I say this every time I write something but BRING SUNSCREEN. I’ll say it again in case you’re skimming – BRING SUNSCREEN. Not sure what else to bring check out our article on what you need for a day trip. As you make your way to Bald Peak, the trail can be a bit tough to keep track of. Make sure you pay attention to the stone cairns on the open granite face that mark the way (and thank other hikers, and the forest service for making sure these are maintained!). 

At the top of Bald Peak, you’ll see stunning views of Upper Hadlock Pond and surrounding islands. Make sure to take lots of pictures here – you earned it! It’s after Bald Peak that you’ll continue to Parkman Mountain. Acadia National Park is home to many peaks and a plethora of viewpoints, but these peaks seem to be crowd favorites.

On To Parkman Mountain

Go down the northside of the mountain and you’ll cross paths with the Parkman Mountain Trail Junction. From there, take a quick right and continue on for about 0.1 miles and you’ll be greeted with views from the Parkman Mountain summit. Go back the way you came until you get to the junction, then descend into the forest. There are two ledges and one iron rung you’ll have to get through on the way back, but they aren’t too difficult unless it’s wet or raining out. Once you’re back where you started, the hike is complete! Congrats, see, I told you it wasn’t toooooo hard. 

Bald Peak and Parkman Mountain Safety

The Bald Peak and Parkman Mountain hike in Acadia National Park isn’t too technical or difficult. However, there are a few obstacles to be aware of. If you have a fear of open ledges or mobility issues that will make going up or down a rung difficult, this might not be the hike for you. Other than those items, use common sense and your usual trail safety tactics. Here are a few friendly reminders:

• The trail has open-face granite areas, so avoid if it is raining outside or has just rained.
• BRING SUNSCREEN! (a third reminder for you stubborn hikers, haha!)
• Due to the lack of sun protection, factor in that you will get tired quickly and will likely need more water than you realize.
• It’s not too long of a hike, so pack a granola bar or two and you should be fine.
• Dogs can go on this hike but be aware of the iron rung and steep ledges you’ll have to navigate with them.

If you are interested in a more in-depth review of trail safety and packing recommendations for different types of hikes, I have blogs that go into much greater detail than I do here! I always say that safety is the first step for a fun hike. Without trail safety, you’re much more likely to have a scary (and less fun!) experience.

More About Acadia National Park

Bald Peak & Parkman Mountain only scratch the surface of Acadia’s beauty. Whether you want long leisurely walks near the ocean or intense hikes filled with adventure, Acadia has it all. It is one of the only national parks in the US that I’ve been to that is surrounded by a city, giving you all the amenities you could want. Trust me, I love a cozy hotel or nice Air BnB after my hikes, and Acadia never disappoints. 

I recommend staying for at least a few days, enjoying a kayak tour, having a day of shopping in town, and eating a lot of seafood (a must!) during your visit. Bar Harbor, one of the towns that neighbors Acadia National Park is small enough to be charming but large enough to provide a bit of luxury. You won’t have to miss out on good cell phone reception or top-notch food because you want to explore the national park.

What Are You Waiting For?

I have raved about Acadia National Park so much at this point that it’s a wonder I haven’t been hired to be some sort of brand ambassador. You can find the adventure you’re looking for without getting too rugged, and that’s a win for everyone! The views will put your jaw on the floor and the hikes will keep you coming back for more. Get out and explore!