The Shore Path

The famous Shore Path in Bar Harbor, Maine begins at the Town Pier next to Agamont Park, goes a short distance to the East past the Bar Harbor Inn, then wraps around a point before continuing South for about 1/2 to 3/4 of a mile along the eastern shore of Mount Desert Island. Originally created around 1880, people from all over the world have walked on this path while enjoying the sights, sounds and smells ever since. You should plan on at least one early morning walk here while visiting Acadia National Park. If you arise early enough and time it just right, you will be greeted by the morning sun just as it bursts over the horizon creating a symphony of light, shadow, and gorgeous color.

Note that the repair of the Shore Path from the January 2024 storms was completed in June 2025.

Things to Do Street Map Bar Harbor

What is there to see?

A convenient spot for parking is either on the public pier or in the parking area located a short distance away on the south side of Agamont Park. The pier offers numerous opportunities for photography and videography. Local fishermen use this area as a staging point for their daily lobster and scallop runs. Activity can occur on all three sides, so keep your eyes and ears open if this interests you. Directly to the north is Bar Island, which becomes accessible via a natural land bridge that forms at low tide. On both the west and east sides of the pier, you can often see spectacular yachts like the ones shown here.

What a view!

The Shore Path follows the shoreline adjacent to Agamont Park, a popular gathering spot overlooking the harbor and the Bar Harbor Inn where a long dock stretches from the water's edge. During the summer and fall seasons, the Margaret S. Todd schooner is here unless it is out on a scenic cruise. Just before reaching the inn on the right, there is a charming gazebo, a favorite spot for visitors to take photos with friends and loved ones. Near the public pier, a ramp provides access to the shore. Exercise caution when walking on wet rocks, particularly if they are covered with green algae or seaweed.

Shoreside view of Activities

There are numerous picturesque viewpoints along the Shore Path itself, as well as on the granite ledge areas just off the trail. At the northeastern tip of Mount Desert Island, the path veers southward. From this vantage point, you can see several islands, alongside various yachts, boats, kayakers, and even some very large cruise ships. Occasionally, there may be two or three cruise ships visiting Bar Harbor simultaneously. The view shown above, featuring kayakers, looks back at the Shore Path just after rounding the corner and heading south. The Bar Harbor Inn is located out of sight on the left side.

Bar Harbor, Maine Shore Path view of sailboat

Margaret S. Todd Schooner next to Bar Harbor Shore Path

Wild Roses & Old Fences

The Shore Path hugs the coastline on the eastern side of Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island right next to several private properties and some beautiful mansions so please respect their privacy. Along the way, you will discover some rocky shorelines, wild red roses, character rich old fences, lush vegetation, and over a hundred years of history. If you see a nice spot to sit and relax along the shore, by all means take advantage of it. This is a place of healing and fresh salty air.

Once you reach the end of the walking path, you may just turn around and go back the same way that you came, or take a path that leads directly to Main Street in Bar Harbor where you can walk back through the business district. For other Acadia trails and paths visit Acadia Hiking Trails.

Beaches Hiking Trails Park Loop Road

Great Photographic Location

Bar Harbor is centered around its beautiful coastline and ocean, not to mention its delicious seafood. Most visitors capture their memorable images from the Public Pier, Agamont Park, and the Shore Path, all conveniently located near each other. Occasionally, West Street, the usual route to the pier, may be blocked due to numerous cruise ship passengers boarding or disembarking from tour buses. In such cases, head to Main Street and make a quick left to access the back or south side of Agamont Park, where you should find parking. Parking there or at the pier offers a perfect starting point for exploring the Shore Path. It also gives you easy access to the unfolding sights from the pier or the elevated vantage point in the park. For early morning photography, I recommend using a tripod and a shutter release cable or wireless version to capture the best shots. You can refer to the Bar Harbor Street Map for a better understanding of the layout. Feel free to contact us with any questions.

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