Beech Mountain
Acadia National Park, Maine

Beech Mountain, at 839 feet (256 meters), has a commanding position over the southwestern part of Mount Desert Island. There is an observation tower on its summit that can be seen from many miles around. Access to the Beech Mountain hiking trails is from the Echo Lake parking area or from Beech Hill Road. (photos)

When you arrive at the Echo Lake parking area you can't help notice the high cliffs along the western side. The cliffs continue along the western shore of Echo Lake as well. A hiking trail leads up the side of the cliffs from the parking area. Extreme caution should be used while on this trail and when arriving at the top of the cliffs. The view is well worth the hike.

The other access point is from the parking area at the southern end of Beech Hill Road that is west of the cliffs. The beginning of this road is just south of Somesville, north of Echo Lake on Route 102. From this parking area, you may hike a short distance to the east to arrive at the cliffs, or you may hike west further up Beech Mountain to the summit where the observation tower is located.