Acadia National Park - Flying Mountain Loop

This loop offers a steep hike to the top of a small mountain with spectacular views of Somes Sound and descends to a quiet ocean cove with a rocky beach.
Trail Activity
Hiking
Length
1.50 miles, Loop
Difficulty
Moderate
Town
Southwest Harbor
Surface
Dirt/Forest Floor, Rock/Ledge
Pets
Permitted
Fees
Yes

Description

HIGH USE TRAIL:

This is a busy trail system, especially on weekends between 9AM-4PM. Consider visiting outside of peak periods. Use Maine Trail Finder to identify other nearby trails. If the parking lot is full when you arrive, please choose another trail. 

The trail gradually ascends through forest via log and gravel steps. Sections become more rugged, traversing rocks and roots. Just before reaching the peak the trail ascends steeply over exposed ledges. Several overlooks provide excellent views of Somes Sound to the east and the ocean and offshore islands to the south. The hike continues to the north along the ridge, passing the summit marker before descending to Valley Cove over rocky ground and stone steps. The hike returns through the woods to the parking lot on the Valley Cove Road (now considered a trail for foot traffic only).

Other Information

Flying Mountain was named by the Wabanaki Indians, since the mountain appeared to have flown off nearby Acadia Mountain. British war ships used Valley Cove for shelter and to replenish their drinking water supplies at Man O' War Brook Waterfall. Somes Sound is frequently called a Fjord. Recently it was reclassified as a Fjard because its slopes are not as steep nor the entrance as deep as a Fjord.

Geocaching is prohibited within Acadia National Park; however, the park does sponsor an EarthCache Program for those seeking a virtual treasure hunt!

Trail Manager

Visit Acadia National Park online for more information or contact:

National Park Service, Acadia National Park

National Park Service, Acadia National Park
PO Box 177
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Phone: (207) 288-3338
acadia_information@nps.gov

Nearby Events

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Trail Tips

Respect Wildlife
Keep your pets under control at all times, to protect both them and wild animals, fragile environments, and the enjoyment of other visitors.
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Trailhead Information

After reaching Mount Desert Island on ME Route 3, stay to the right to follow ME Route 102 toward the towns of Somesville and Southwest Harbor. Just before reaching Southwest Harbor, turn left on Fernald Point Road. Continue on this road to an Acadia National Park parking area on the left.

Click on a parking icon to get custom directions
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acadia dreamscape
November 17, 2017
I would say this is a moderate trail. It is a little steep in places getting to the top,but a short break and you are there. Not really difficult and the views of the Somes Sound, the Narrows, and outlying islands is amazing.
bigjohnhersey2
May 30, 2015
The trail was well maintained. It is labeled advanced, but we survived with a 3 year old and had a great hike. Lots of elevation, but the views were great. We enjoyed some extra time at the rock beach @ the halfway mark.
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Trail Alerts

Ecology
Annual Peregrine Closure
March 15 – August 15

These cliffs and surrounding areas are used by Peregrine Falcons, a state-listed endangered species, for nesting and rearing young fledglings. Peregrine falcons are very sensitive to disturbance near the nest site. To protect the peregrine chicks, certain areas are closed when the peregrines are nesting, generally from March 15 to August 15. Check your hiking route to make sure that the trails you wish to use are open. Acadia closures are listed here.

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