Cadillac Summit Loop

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · Views

The Cadillac Summit Loop is an easy, paved path that wraps around the summit of Cadillac Mountainthe tallest mountain in Acadia National Park. The loop provides nearly 360-degree views of Downeast Maine.

From the northern part of the parking area follow the trail clockwise around the summit. (Be sure to stay on the paved path to protect the fragile plants that grow here.) To the northeast you'll see Bar Harbor, Mount Desert Island's biggest town. The Porcupine Islands lie just offshore in Frenchman Bay.

Keep wrapping around the summit, and you'll see the tip of Schoodic Peninsula directly to the east. A bit further down the trail, the Cranberry Isles, which lie directly south of Mount Desert Island, come into view. Southwest of the Cranberry Isles are Swan's Island, Frenchboro, and Isle au Haut.

Be sure to check out the elevated lookout area, which has some interesting informational plaques, before looping back to the parking area. If you're hungry or thirsty, head to the small gift shop near the entrance to the parking area. Bathrooms and water fountains are also located there.

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.

Fragile alpine plants grow alongside the trail.