Maine’s Best-Kept Hiking Secret Lies Hidden in Acadia National Park

Maine is rightfully known as Vacationland.

The well-earned nickname has only grown stronger over the years, especially as the state gains more and more exposure. It has certainly become a go-to destination for all things outdoors.

And really, it makes perfect sense. Just look at this beautiful state of ours: a pristine coastline, stunning mountains, exquisite lakes and rivers, and plenty of peaceful, remote areas to sit back and enjoy life. It’s no wonder so many great articles are being written about this incredible place we call home.

Where is Maine's Best Unkown Hiking Trail?

One of the articles I came across comes from the folks at one of Maine's most recognized brands: L.L. Bean. The major retailer is not just a seller of outdoor gear, but also a tremendous reference source for all things outdoors. This includes an article they published about the best unknown hikes in every state, a list of 50 trails that L.L. Bean contributors believe deserve much more attention.

The choice for Maine is an interesting one, as it’s located within the vastly popular Acadia National Park. However, it's not a trail that typically gets much attention. The hike is the Bernard Mountain Loop Trail.

The Bernard Mountain Loop Trail is One of Acadia National Park's Hidden Gems

Located in the heart of the park, the Bernard Mountain Loop Trail is a 4.1-mile loop known for its beauty and seclusion. AllTrails describes it as a great route for birding and trail running, especially due to its low foot traffic. The trail summits Bernard Mountain, which stands just over 1,000 feet, offering hikers some wonderful views from the top. It’s considered a challenging hike, so it may not be suitable for everyone.

This is quite the selection by L.L. Bean. It seems like the perfect kind of trail for hiking enthusiasts to explore—especially if the more crowded Acadia hikes aren’t what you're looking for. I know how exhausting it can be to constantly deal with slow-moving crowds and noisy groups. There’s nothing like a quiet hike to help you truly connect with nature.

L.L. Bean's article is a wonderful reference guide for not just Maine, but every state. I'm already eyeing up New Hampshire and Vermont's selections. You can check out the entire list here. I must say, the 2024 hiking season is already coming together.

Happy hiking.