Explore the Scenic Trails of Cadillac South Ridge
Discover the breathtaking views and scenic trails of Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead, the gateway to Acadia National Park's majestic Cadillac Mountain.
Nestled in the heart of Mount Desert Island, Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead offers an exhilarating hiking experience with breathtaking views. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this trail takes you through lush landscapes and rugged terrain, culminating in stunning vistas of Acadia National Park and beyond.
A brief summary to Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead
- Mt Desert, Maine, 04660, US
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start your hike early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the cooler temperatures.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.
- Consider visiting during the fall for stunning foliage views.
- Check the weather before your hike, as conditions can change quickly in the mountains.
Getting There
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Walking from Jordan Pond House
If you are starting from the Jordan Pond House, exit the building and head south on the Jordan Pond Path. Follow the path for about 0.5 miles until you reach the main road (Park Loop Road). Cross the road and continue along the Jordan Pond Path, which will eventually lead you to the trailhead for the Cadillac South Ridge Trail. The entire walk should take approximately 20-30 minutes.
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Using the Island Explorer Shuttle
If you are near the Bar Harbor area, you can take the Island Explorer shuttle (Route 3) towards Cadillac Mountain. Make sure to check the shuttle schedule for the latest timings. Get off at the Cadillac Mountain parking area. From there, follow the signs for the Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead, which is a short walk from the parking area, approximately 0.3 miles up the road along the trail.
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Walking from the Cadillac Mountain Summit
If you are at the Cadillac Mountain Summit, you can follow the Cadillac South Ridge Trail by heading south from the summit along the marked path. The trail descends and will take you to the Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead. This route will allow you to enjoy stunning views along the way, and the distance is about 1 mile one way, taking roughly 30-45 minutes depending on your pace.
Discover more about Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead
0.0 km
Discover the breathtaking views and scenic trails of Cadillac South Ridge Trailhead, the gateway to Acadia National Park's majestic Cadillac Mountain.
Monument Cove
2.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Monument Cove in Bar Harbor, Maine, where stunning views and nature's tranquility await.
Stanley Brook Bridge
2.6 km
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Jordan Pond House Restaurant
3.2 km
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Jordan Pond Dam Bridge
3.3 km
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Pemetic Mountain
3.4 km
Discover Pemetic Mountain: a breathtaking peak in Maine offering stunning views, diverse hiking trails, and unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden
3.4 km
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Cobblestone Bridge
3.5 km
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Bunker Ledge Monument
3.7 km
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Cliffside Bridge
3.9 km
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Bubble Pond
4.0 km
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South Bubble
4.2 km
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Amphitheatre Bridge
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Penobscot Mountain
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Deer Brook Bridge
4.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Hunters Beach
1.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Hunters Beach in Mt. Desert, Maine, with stunning coastal views and serene surroundings perfect for relaxation.
Little Hunters Beach
1.6 km
Unwind at Little Hunters Beach, a serene coastal oasis on Mt. Desert Island, perfect for relaxation and scenic ocean views.
Hunters Beach Overlook
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Gorham Mountain Trailhead
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Boulder Beach
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Otter Cliff
2.1 km
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Ocean Path
2.1 km
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Cooksey Drive Overlook
2.2 km
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Gorham Mountain Trail
2.3 km
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Thunder Hole
2.3 km
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Ocean Path Trailhead
3.1 km
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Beehive Trail
3.1 km
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Sand Beach
3.2 km
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Jordan Pond Trailhead
3.3 km
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Great Head
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Essential places to dine
Burning Tree Restaurant
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The Bucking Lobster
5.9 km
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Copita
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123 Main Street: June-Oct, Thurs-Sun, 9-3.
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Colonel's Restaurant and Bakery
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Havana
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Everyday Joe's
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Bar Harbor Lobster Co.
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Project Social Kitchen & Bar
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Salsa Verde Grill
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McKay's Public House
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Cafe This Way
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Blaze
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Lunch Bar Harbor
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CherrySTONES
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Otter Creek Market
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Thunder Hole Gift Shop
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Cadillac Mountain Gift Shop
4.5 km
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Swallowfield
6.2 km
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Main Street Mercantile
6.3 km
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The Kimball Shop
6.3 km
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Fabricate LLC
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Arts and Ends
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The Maine Store
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Sagegrass Gallery
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Serendipity
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Christmas Vacation Shop - Changing Seasons
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Christmas Vacation Shop
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The Acadia Country Store
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Indigo Blues - Blueberry Gifts - Art - Jewelry - Local Products/Crafts
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Garden Lounge
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Tap & Barrel Tavern
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Cottage St. Pub
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Eagles Nest Cocktails
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Bar Island Land Bridge
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Thurston's Lobster Pound
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Sweet Pea's Farm Kitchen
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Island Take Out
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Fogtown Brewing Company
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Whale's Tooth Pub
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Paper Plane
68.4 km
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Salt Wharf
68.4 km
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Camden Harbour Inn
68.5 km
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Natalie's Restaurant - Relais and Chateaux
68.5 km
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The Waterfront Restaurant
68.5 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood with stunning harbor views at The Waterfront Restaurant, a must-visit for any coastal traveler.
