Beehive Loop – A Thrilling Acadia National Park Must-Do Adventure

Out of all the adventuresome trails offered by Acadia National Park, one of the best in my opinion is Beehive Loop. The Beehive Loop provides stunning views as well as an immense amount of adrenaline. This is trail you need to add to your hiking bucket list. 

Dubbed a tamer version of the Precipice Trail, the Beehive Trail offers an exhilarating experience with slightly less intensity. While Beehive still boasts cliff walks and metal rungs, the elevation gain is more manageable. That makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a thrilling challenge without the extreme heights.

The Beehive Loop may not be for the faint of heart; in the same vein, however, I would also say it is not for the hiker with very young kids. As there are places with very narrow cliff ledges, sections with metal rungs and ladders; and one section that requires that you walk across iron bars instead of solid ground! But for the adventurous soul willing to partake in the trade-off, the Beehive Trail is a very exciting hike.

Suggested Equipment:

• Hiking Shoes: This is an important one! There are rocky sections and some of the rock is loose and can move on you. I love my  Sketchers Relment-Pelmo Hiking Boots they have been to several continents with me. 
• Sunscreen: Don’t expect much shade on the Beehive section of the hike so sunscreen is a must. I personally like Rocky Mountain Sunscreen and use the SPF 50 so I don’t have to remember to reapply it. A hat is also a good option.
• Water Bottle: Always bring water with you on any hike you are doing. If you are in the market for a new bottle I suggest the Nalgene Wide Mouth  32oz. 

Parking:

The Beehive Trail starts across from Park Loop Road. If you are traveling by car the Sand Beach parking lot is the best place to park. There are also accessible restrooms in this lot. 

Getting to the Trailhead:

To start your hike from the parking lot at Sand Beach and follow the Bowl Trail until you reach the Beehive Trail. The Beehive trail is a loop trail and it is not advised to return down the rung and ladders. After conquering the summit, descend past The Bowl on your way back to the parking lot, completing a rewarding loop.

Trail:

Coming in at a manageable 1.4 miles round trip and a peak elevation of 534 feet, the Beehive Trail’s duration varies based on your pace and how often you pause to soak in the scenic wonders. On average, expect the hike to take between 1 to 3 hours, allowing ample time to appreciate the beauty that surrounds you.

Safety is paramount on the Beehive Trail, given its rocky and uneven terrain. The initial ascent up a 450-ft cliff demands surefootedness, with exposed edges and steep drop-offs adding to the thrill. Again, proper footwear is essential, providing stability on the challenging terrain.

It’s crucial to exercise caution, especially during inclement weather when the granite surfaces become dangerously slippery. Optimal conditions enhance safety, allowing hikers to ascend with confidence and relish every moment of this exhilarating adventure.

As one of Acadia’s most popular trails, the Beehive Trail beckons adventurers to push their limits and embrace the thrill of exploration. With granite staircases, iron rungs, and panoramic vistas stretching over Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and the Gulf of Maine, every step is a testament to nature’s grandeur.

So, if you’re ready to challenge both your body and mind amidst the stunning landscapes of Acadia National Park, lace up your hiking boots and embark on the unforgettable journey that awaits along the Beehive Trail.

After Your Hike:

After you have taken in all the views and make it back to the bottom of the Beehive Trail stick around there is plenty of other things to do in the area.

Details
Distance	1.4 Miles Round Trip
Duration	1-3 Hours, depending on your pace
Activity	Hiking, Rungs and Ladders
Pets Allowed	No Pets are permitted on rung and ladder trails in Acadia National Park.
Activity Fee	from May to October, the park has an entrance fee.
Location	Beehive Trailhead,
Reservations Needed	No
Season	Spring, Summer, Fall
Time of Day	Day, Dawn

Benefits of Your Hike:

Hiking offers many benefits that contribute to both physical and mental well-being. Engaging in outdoor activities not only provides an enjoyable experience surrounded by nature but also fosters numerous health advantages.

Physically, hiking serves as an excellent form of exercise, engaging various muscle groups and promoting cardiovascular health. Whether traversing steep inclines or strolling along gentle paths, hikers experience improved muscle strength, enhanced balance, and strengthened bones. 

Furthermore, regular hiking can reduce the risk of respiratory issues, contributing to overall physical wellness. Beyond its physical benefits, hiking also positively impacts mental health by reducing stress, alleviating anxiety, and potentially lowering the risk of depression. Research from Stanford University indicates that spending time in natural surroundings can significantly elevate mood and enhance sensory perception.

Additionally, hiking presents an opportunity for social engagement, strengthening relationships and fostering camaraderie. Whether hiking solo, with a friend, or in a group, the shared experience of exploring the outdoors contributes to building healthier interpersonal connections. With national parks offering a diverse range of trails and landscapes, the benefits of hiking are accessible to individuals from all walks of life. Embracing the opportunity to hike not only promotes personal well-being but also allows for the discovery of nature’s wonders, one step at a time.

Want more on Acadia National Park Hikes check out our hike from Precipice Loop Trail