A steep ascent through the woods leads to Valley Peak and spectacular views of Somes Sound and Flying Mountain. At the summit junction, the hike continues to the right on the Valley Peak Trail as it traverses the forested edge of the peak offering only occasional views of Somes Sound until it opens up and there are impressive views from the the cliff overlooking Valley Cove. After this scenic area, the hike begins a steep, rugged descent though the forest. There is an open granite section on this descent that is not recommended in wet weather. At the next intersection, the hike turns right following the Valley Cove Trail. This trail soon parallels the ocean. In Valley Cove, it traverses the base of a steep cliff and is a rugged hike. At the southern end of the cove, a junction marks the Valley Cove fire road to the right and the return route to the parking lot.
Somes Sound is frequently called a Fjord. Recently it was reclassified as a Fjard because its slopes are not as steep nor the entrance as deep as a Fjord.
British warships used Valley Cove for shelter and to replenish their drinking water supplies at Man O' War Brook Waterfall. The waterfall can be reached from the intersection of the Valley Peak Trail and the Valley Cove Trail, by continuing straight on the Acadia Mountain Trail. Just a short distance down the trail there is a marker for the waterfall on the right. Warning: This side trail is not maintained and may be hazardous. Trail access is to the side of the waterfall. The waterfall is seasonal and small.
For a longer hike, at the Valley Cove Trail and Valley Cove fire road junction, continue to the left on the Flying Mountain Trail to reach the summit of Flying Mountain. The Flying Mountain Trail continues down the south side of the mountain and terminates at the parking lot for this hike. The Flying Mountain Trail is 0.9 miles.
Due to the difficult terrain of sections of this trail, it may not be suitable for dogs.
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:
After reaching Mount Desert Island on ME Route 3, follow ME 102 right toward the towns of Somesville and Southwest Harbor. Go about 10 miles and just before reaching Southwest Harbor, turn left on Fernald Point Road. Continue on this road 0.8 miles to an Acadia National Park parking area on the left. Walk around the locked gate on the Valley Cove Fire Road. The Valley Peak Trailhead is a short distance down the road on the left.
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