Cadillac Mountain Summit Loop

A short summit hike atop the highest peak in Acadia National Park.

Hiking Moderate

Distance: 614 m
Ascent: 23 m
Descent: 23 m
Duration: 0-1 hrs

Low Point: 434 m
High Point: 457 m
Gradient: 13˚

Towering 1,500 feet above sea level, Cadillac Mountain should top your list if you only have time for one hike in Acadia. As the highest peak in the park, Cadillac is one of the "first spots in the United States to get hit by sunrise," according to this local guide. As such, both professional and aspiring photographers willing to set their alarms early are rewarded with one of the most spectacular sunrises they will ever witness. Following the sunrise, low clouds and fog often paint the horizon, contributing further to the wonderful views from the summit.

Sunrise view from Cadillac Mtn Photo: Jeston Jones

Bar Harbor from summit of Cadillac Mtn Photo: Idawriter

Description

One of the more popular hikes in Acadia, an early start to Cadillac Mountain is paramount. While "most people congregate by the summit marker," local guide Joe Braun notes that "if you want a bit more space, hike down the Cadillac Summit Loop Trail a bit and you should be able to find a less populated spot."

The parking area for Cadillac Mountain is large and has both water and restrooms. Despite its size, though, heavy traffic can be a problem late morning or early afternoon, especially on holiday weekends. The trail itself is easy, mostly level, and the entire loop (less stops) shouldn't take more than 30-minutes to complete.

https://www.citrusmilo.com/acadiaguide/cadillacsummit.php https://www.nps.gov/acad/planyourvisit/hike-summit.htm