Wonderland Trail
An easy forest-and-coast walk to granite ledges and tidepools on Acadia's quieter west side.
Route overview
Walk from the roadside trailhead to the coast, explore only safe exposed rock and return by the same path.
Wonderland Trail crosses spruce forest and low coastal terrain before reaching open granite beside the Atlantic. The route is gentle and suitable for a wide range of visitors, but tidepool areas remain vulnerable to rising tides, slippery algae and unexpected waves.
Trail facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Acadia National Park, Maine
- Distance
- 2.3 km round trip
- Typical duration
- 1–1.5 hours
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- approximately 25 m
- Best season
- Year-round with tide, storm and ice checks
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No trail permit; park entrance requirements apply
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Slippery algae, rising tide, rogue waves, roots and winter ice
Highlights
Tidepools, granite coast, spruce forest, west-side solitude
Why find a buddy
A simple introductory outing for partners who want an easy pace and shared coastal exploration.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.