By More Than Just Parks

5 Must-Know Facts about Acadia's Thrilling Precipice Trail

5 Must-Know Facts about Acadia's Thrilling Precipice Trail

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK

THE HARDEST HIKE IN ACADIA

Wars have been fought over less than if Precipice is tougher than Beehive, but Precipice ascends 1,000 feet in less than a mile, and you'll climb the side of sheer cliffs with no way to tether. AFRAID OF HEIGHTS? DO NOT ATTEMPT

PRECIPICE TRAIL IS not rock climbing

While reminiscent of via ferrata route, you don't harness or clip in. A series of iron rungs and barriers help along the way. The experience mixes scaling walls and walking narrow ledges.

The "ELIMINATOR" of precipice trail

Whether by design or nature, no more than 600 feet into the trial is the first rung climb.  It's called "The Eliminator" because those who can't handle it should turn around.

you can't go back

The Precipice Trail of Acadia is a one-way trail and there IS a point of no return. Besides "The Eliminator," there's one more chance to back out if you can't or don't want to proceed.  That point comes 0.25 miles into the on-mile ascent. This trail is dangerous enough going up, much less navigating two-way traffic on narrow ladders and ledges.

precipice trail is elusive

The trail is closed during Peregrine Falcon nesting season, which can run from March 1 through August. Though a season without chicks means the trail is open. Plus, the trail isn't open during extreme winter conditions. Even hiking after rain is strongly discouraged.

prepare for the precipice

prepare for the precipice

If you're still intrigued, check out our step-by-step guide to Precipice Trail in Acadia National Park, Maine.  And if the trail is closed, Beehive is another white-knuckled experience.