Beachcroft Path

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Champlain Mountain offers some of the best views of Frenchman Bay in Acadia, and the Beachcroft Path is the easiest route to the summit. It's also the most popular route to the summit when the famous Precipice Trail is closed to protect nesting peregrine falcons.

The Beachcroft Path starts on Otter Creek Road, directly across from the northern end of The Tarn. There's a small parking area across the road from the trailhead. Follow the trail as it rises up through the woods. You'll soon start climbing some stone steps with sweeping views of the valley below.

As you climb higher, you'll round Huguenot Head, dip down into a small valley, and then hit the final push to the summit. This is the hardest part of the trail, and it does require some steep scrambling. The reward for your efforts will be sweeping views from Champlain's summit, including excellent views of Egg Rock Lighthouse and Schoodic Peninsula beyond.

Thanks to guidebook author and photographer, James Kaiser, for sharing this trail description. To learn more about visiting Acadia, check out his Guide to Acadia National Park.