Wave Erosion
One of the most noticeable features in most photos of Otter Cliff, along with the headland itself, are the thousands of rounded boulders in the foreground that are in the small cove immediately to the north. Over countless centuries, the rocks have been pounded by the sea and eroded by both water and against each other after being deposited by huge glaciers that once moved across the land here on the island. When the light is low on the horizon, the warm sunlit sides on the left contrast with the cool shadow sides on the right and these rounded shapes contrast further with the rugged and weathered vertical granite cliffs set ablaze by the rising sun. The viewing of this can quicken the heart and and mind, creating lasting impressions of millennium condensed into one's own life. View these boulders in the larger images above.
The Spindle
A bell buoy located just off the shore from Otter Cliff marks the location of a place that may hold special historical significance. It warns of an often hidden rock formation called the "Spindle." Centuries ago on September 5th, 1604, while sailing around Mount Desert Island at high tide, the explorer Samuel de Champlain was drawn closer after he noticed smoke rising from a Native American encampment near Otter Point. Unfortunately for Champlain and the crew, they did not see a dangerous rock formation in time to avoid it. The damage to the hull of the ship forced them to spend the following winter in Otter Cove for safety and repairs. This was 16 years before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock and the key reason why many places along the Maine Coast have French origin names. This area was then known as “New France.”
Ocean Path
The Ocean Path begins at Sand Beach, passes by Thunder Hole, then arrives at Otter Cliff. Along the way are many vantage points from which you may partake in this visual feast in all its splendor and it is highly recommended. Since this is on the east coast of Mount Desert Island, this whole section of Acadia National Park is perfect for watching a sunrise.
Use utmost caution when near the cliffs. The rocks may be slippery and little bits of sand and rock particles can act like marbles causing you to slip and fall. Severe injuries can result.
Note: Just prior to arriving at Otter Cliff, there is a road on the right called Otter Cliff Road. If needed, this will take you to Route 3 where you can take a right to return to Bar Harbor or take a left to go to Otter Creek and Seal Harbor.
