Ship Harbor Trail forms a figure-8 loop. Bearing right at each junction leads along the shore of a narrow, picturesque cove. After passing along a rocky headland (watch carefully for blue blazes on the rocks), the trail turns right and continues through a thick spruce woods. A right at each intersection leads back to the parking lot.
The first 0.1 mile section of trail that connects to the figure-8 loop, and then another quarter mile of the trail to the left at the juction, have a surface of hard-packed gravel, suitable for strollers, wheelchairs, and those with mobility challenges. This 0.3-mile accessible section leads to the junction at the center of the figure-8, where there is a view of the inner harbor and mudflats. There is a informational sign at this location describing the flora and fauna of the mudflats environment.
Why the area is called Ship Harbor is not certain. It might have been possible, at one time, for small ships to seek shelter in the cove. This trail is popular among birders. Along the coast you may see: common loons, common eiders, great blue herons, black guillemots, ospreys and eagles. The inland forest provides shelter for warblers, kinglets, and other songbirds.
At low tide, the rocky headland has numerous tidepools. When exploring the tidepools keep these safety tips in mind.
Dogs are allowed on the trail on a six foot leash.
Geocaching is prohibited within Acadia National Park; however, the park does sponsor an EarthCache Program for those seeking a virtual treasure hunt!
Visit Acadia National Park online for more information or contact:
National Park Service, Acadia National ParkStarting from Southwest Harbor, continue on ME Route 102 through downtown. Just past the town, turn left on ME-102A. In 3.6 miles the Ship Harbor parking lot is on the left.
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