Compass Harbor Trail Oldfarm
A scenic and easy trail in Bar Harbor featuring a gorgeous cove, cliff views, and intriguing old mansion ruins.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Kickstart your day with beauty
Compass Harbor Trail Oldfarm
Best Time
Kickstart your day with beauty
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic and easy trail in Bar Harbor featuring a gorgeous cove, cliff views, and intriguing old mansion ruins.
"Short easy hike with gorgeous views and multiple side trails to the shore."
🚶♀️ Easy & Scenic Walk
A short, well-marked trail perfect for a quick 30-minute exploration with gorgeous views. :athletic_shoe:
🏊♀️ Great Swimming Spot
The cove offers a beautiful and refreshing place for a swim on warmer days. :ocean:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ocean Cove Views
Along the trail
Breathtaking cove and cliff vistas that will leave you in awe. Perfect for a refreshing start to your day.
Historic Mansion Ruins
Off the main path
Explore the intriguing remnants of a once-grand mansion, adding a touch of history to your scenic walk.
Refreshing Swimming Spot
At the cove
Take a dip in the clear waters of the cove for a revitalizing experience on a warm day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Easy Pace
Discover Hidden History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Easy & Scenic Walk
A short, well-marked trail perfect for a quick 30-minute exploration with gorgeous views. :athletic_shoe:
🏊♀️ Great Swimming Spot
The cove offers a beautiful and refreshing place for a swim on warmer days. :ocean:
Bar Harbor itinerary!
First time to Acadia! Looking for recommendations (with a 4 year old)
🏛️ Discover Old Ruins
Don't miss the fascinating ruins of an old mansion scattered along the path. :classical_building:
🐶 Leash Your Pets
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash, especially during winter walks. :dog:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Easy & Scenic Walk
A short, well-marked trail perfect for a quick 30-minute exploration with gorgeous views. :athletic_shoe:
🏊♀️ Great Swimming Spot
The cove offers a beautiful and refreshing place for a swim on warmer days. :ocean:
🏛️ Discover Old Ruins
Don't miss the fascinating ruins of an old mansion scattered along the path. :classical_building:
🐶 Leash Your Pets
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash, especially during winter walks. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Compass Harbor Trail for its easy accessibility, stunning natural beauty, and intriguing historical ruins. It's a highly recommended short walk for a refreshing experience, though parking can be a challenge during peak times.
"It’s nice. Sometimes you’re running into tourists, but most of the time you won’t. There’s some nice old ruins of a burn down mansion and it’s pretty good swimming."
Jonathan clark (Jo-Nathan)
"Easy going and well marked trail. Gorgeous cove and cliff views. A nice one to kickstart your day with."
Eden Kupermintz
"Beautiful lookout with an easy walk! If you wanted, you could hike/walk this trail in about 30 minutes, but it's pretty scenic."
Sam Buck
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Compass Harbor Trail is located in Bar Harbor, Maine. It's accessible by car and is a popular spot for visitors exploring Acadia National Park. Parking can be limited, especially during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can fill up quickly. Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to secure a spot.
Public transport options directly to the trail might be limited. It's best to check local Bar Harbor shuttle services or consider ride-sharing if you're not driving.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Compass Harbor Trail is generally accessible without an entrance fee, especially if you're just visiting the trail itself. However, if you plan to explore more of Acadia National Park, an Acadia National Park pass may be required. Check the official NPS website for current regulations.
The trail is typically open year-round during daylight hours. There are no set closing times, allowing for early morning or late evening visits, though safety is advised after dark.
Absolutely! The trail is described as easy and well-marked, making it suitable for families, seniors, and even those with babies in carriers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can complete the main loop of the Compass Harbor Trail in about 30 minutes, but many visitors linger to enjoy the views and explore side paths.
Expect stunning views of a gorgeous cove, dramatic cliffs, and the ocean. There are also multiple side trails leading down to the shore.
Restroom facilities might be limited directly at the trailhead. It's advisable to use facilities before you arrive or at nearby park facilities if available.
Yes, the cove at Compass Harbor is a popular spot for swimming, offering a refreshing experience.
While the main trail is relatively easy, some sections might be uneven. It's generally stroller-friendly, but wheelchair accessibility may vary depending on the specific path taken.
📸 📸 Photography
The overlooks offering panoramic views of the cove and cliffs are prime photography locations. Don't forget to capture the old mansion ruins for a unique shot.
Mornings offer beautiful soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoons can also provide lovely golden hour light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Casual Strollers & Nature Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Historic Ruins
These ruins are remnants of a once-grand estate, and while they are weathered by time, they still evoke a sense of history. It's important to explore them respectfully and be mindful of the natural surroundings. The contrast between the decaying man-made structures and the vibrant natural landscape is striking and memorable.
The Allure of the Cove
Beyond swimming, the cove provides excellent vantage points for observing the coastline and the ocean. The cliff views are particularly dramatic, offering a sense of the rugged beauty of the Maine coast. Whether you're looking for a refreshing swim or simply a picturesque spot to sit and take in the views, the cove is a must-see.
Social
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