Hiking

Precipice Trail

Iron rungs and ladders up a sheer granite cliff on Champlain Mountain, with the Atlantic below.

Maine
3.4 km
2 min read

Distance: 3.4 km · 2.1 mi
Elevation gain: +300 m · 1,000 ft
Difficulty: Very strenuous
Time needed: 2–3 hours
Route type: Loop
Permit: Not required
Best season: Mid-August to October, after the falcon closure

Precipice Trail guide in Acadia: the iron rungs, the falcon closure, the Champlain Mountain summit, the way down, distance, time, safety and when it is open.

Overview

The steepest trail in Acadia National Park climbs the east face of Champlain Mountain, about 300 meters in less than 1.5 kilometers. Instead of switchbacks, it uses iron rungs, ladders and handrails bolted into the granite, along narrow ledges with long drops.

From the summit of Champlain Mountain, at 322 meters, the view takes in Frenchman Bay, the Porcupine Islands and the coast of Mount Desert Island. Hikers should not go down the same way; the usual route back is the Orange & Black Path or the Champlain North Ridge Trail.

The trail usually closes from spring to mid-August while peregrine falcons nest on the cliff, so check before you go. It is not suitable for children, dogs, people afraid of heights or wet days.

Precipice Trail: stops along the way

1

Precipice trailhead

A small parking area on the Park Loop Road below the east face of Champlain Mountain.
2

Iron rungs and ladders

The steepest section, where rungs and ladders replace the path.
3

Champlain Mountain summit

A bare granite summit with views over Frenchman Bay and the islands.
4

Orange & Black Path

The descent route, through the forest back to the road.