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.
Quick Facts
| Trail Activity |  |
| Town | Southwest Harbor |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Length | 1.5 miles, Loop |
| Surface | Dirt/Forest Floor, Rock/Ledge |
| Pets |  |
| Fees |  |
Nearby Geocaches
Check for nearby geocaches to Acadia National Park - Flying Mountain Loop.
Leave No Trace Principle
Leave What You Find
Respect natural resources, cultural and historic items, and wildlife by looking rather than touching.
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Trailhead
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.
Description
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
PO Box 177
Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Phone: (207) 288-3338
acadia_information@nps.gov
Nearby Geocaches
Check for nearby geocaches to Acadia National Park - Flying Mountain Loop.
Leave No Trace Principle
Minimize Campfire Impacts
Keep campfires small and contained to established fire rings in permitted sites only.
acadia dreamscape November 17, 2017, 7:22 am EST
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, 7:16 pm EDT
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.