Jesup Path & Hemlock Boardwalk - Image 1
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Jesup Path & Hemlock Boardwalk

4.9
·24 reviews·Bar Harbor, United States

An accessible boardwalk trail in Acadia National Park, offering serene marsh views, vibrant foliage, and wildlife encounters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful strolls & wildlife

CrowdLow
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Jesup Path & Hemlock Boardwalk - Image 1

Jesup Path & Hemlock Boardwalk

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful strolls & wildlife

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An accessible boardwalk trail in Acadia National Park, offering serene marsh views, vibrant foliage, and wildlife encounters.

4.9
(24 reviews)

"One of the most beautiful and easy hikes ever. Fall is beautiful out here."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Early Bird Gets the Owl

Visit early morning for a chance to spot owls and enjoy the trail with fewer people.

🚶‍♀️ Easy & Accessible

Perfect for families and those seeking gentle walks; the boardwalk is well-maintained.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Jesup Path Boardwalk

Jesup Path Boardwalk

Acadia National Park

An elevated boardwalk winding through serene marshland and birch forests, perfect for easy strolls and wildlife spotting.

Reddit
Hemlock Boardwalk

Hemlock Boardwalk

Acadia National Park

A picturesque loop offering stunning views of foliage and a chance to see owls in their natural habitat.

Instagram
Wild Gardens of Acadia

Wild Gardens of Acadia

Trailhead

The starting point for Jesup Path, featuring a variety of native plants and a great spot for birdwatching.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds, especially during peak season. The boardwalk can get busy, but early birds often snag peaceful moments and even spot wildlife. Instagram+1

Embrace the Boardwalk

Much of Jesup Path features an elevated boardwalk, making it accessible and offering unique perspectives of the marshland and surrounding birch and fern forests. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful strolls & wildlife
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Vibrant fall foliage
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer visitors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Compass Harbor Trail, Bar Harbor Maine #fyp #Hiking #maine #acadia #acadianationalpark #health #Fitness #trending #ocean #mrbeast #nature #barharbor #barharbormaine #Summer
@kullhappy
5.4K likes • 110.4K views

🎯 Early Bird Gets the Owl

Visit early morning for a chance to spot owls and enjoy the trail with fewer people. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy & Accessible

Perfect for families and those seeking gentle walks; the boardwalk is well-maintained. Reddit

Save & Share! 3 Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Acadia National Park- ✅Day1- Sand Beach, Ocean Path, Jordan pond & Jordan Pond House, Bar Island Path, Sunset at Cadillac Mountain ✅Day2- Schoodic Peninsula, Bar Harbor Downtown & Waterfront, Nature & Sunset Cruise ✅Day3- Tidal Falls, Bass Harbor lighthouse, Wild Gardens of Acadia & Nature Center, Jessup Path ✅You need to consider additional days ...
@travelwithsudipa
2.4K likes • 93.3K views
Friday nights are spent in Acadia. Tonight we walked the jesup path. There was only one other car in the parking lot. We had the whole place to ourselves. #grady #bordercollie #bordercolliesofinstagram #bordercolliepuppy #redmerlebordercollie #eotbordercollies #acadianationalpark #anp #findyourpark #summer #maine #mybestfriend #ilovewhereilive #fridaynights #adventureswithgrady
packodawgs.photography
7 likes • 78 views

🍂 Fall Foliage Hotspot

Spectacular autumn colors make this a must-visit during the fall season. Instagram+1

🐦 Birdwatching Paradise

Start at the Wild Gardens for excellent birding opportunities along the path. Reddit

Good 'ol #jesuppath is always a must stop @ @acadianps
jesse_wayfarer
10 likes • 88 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Early Bird Gets the Owl

Visit early morning for a chance to spot owls and enjoy the trail with fewer people. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy & Accessible

Perfect for families and those seeking gentle walks; the boardwalk is well-maintained. Reddit

🍂 Fall Foliage Hotspot

Spectacular autumn colors make this a must-visit during the fall season. Instagram+1

🐦 Birdwatching Paradise

Start at the Wild Gardens for excellent birding opportunities along the path. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(24 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Jesup Path & Hemlock Boardwalk for its accessibility, natural beauty, and unique boardwalk experience. It's highlighted as an easy, enjoyable trail perfect for families and those seeking a peaceful nature walk, especially during the stunning autumn foliage season. Some find it can get crowded during peak times.

"This was an easy trail. Part of it was on mostly even dirt and the rest was elevated on a boardwalk. Pretty views. Trail starts in wild gardens of acadia."

Emily Ross

"A good easy walk to do right as you enter the park. The two paths are just beyond the botanical gardens and take you through and around some wetlands in the forest. The rangers alerted us to an owl that was just off the trail, which was cool to see! The boardwalks over the wetlands were much appreciated, and the path on the way back was wide and well maintained. We were here on a very hot day and it was noticeably cooler in the forest too. Definitely a good stop for seeing a different side of Maine than the rest of Acadia shows."

Brian DiGiorgio Zanger

"These two trails are gorgeous any time of year. The boardwalks are in great shape; traveling through grassy bogs; also includes dirt and gravel paths. Very busy here during peak summer months. I prefer the off-season hikes here so I can take my time without the crowds. These trails are rated as “easy” with very little elevation gain. During the warmer months there are restrooms available at the trailhead parking lot. From the parking lot there are tons of other trail options branching into many different directions; including moderate and strenuous hikes."

Paul Veilleux

What People Like

Easy and accessible
Beautiful boardwalk
Stunning fall foliage

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Jesup Path and Hemlock Boardwalk are located within Acadia National Park. They are easily accessible from the Park Loop Road, often starting near the Wild Gardens of Acadia. Parking is available at the trailhead. InstagramReddit

Yes, there is a parking lot at the trailhead for Jesup Path, which also serves as the entrance to the Wild Gardens of Acadia. It can fill up quickly during peak times. Reddit

Absolutely! Jesup Path is a popular stop along the scenic Park Loop Road in Acadia National Park, making it convenient to visit by car. Instagram

Restrooms are typically available at the trailhead parking lot during the warmer months, especially during peak season. Reddit

While the Park Loop Road is accessible for most vehicles, parking at trailheads like Jesup Path can be limited for larger RVs. It's best to check Acadia National Park's official website for specific guidance on vehicle size restrictions. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, Jesup Path and Hemlock Boardwalk are located within Acadia National Park, which requires an entrance fee or a valid Acadia National Park pass for entry. Instagram

Jesup Path and Hemlock Boardwalk are generally accessible year-round during park hours. However, facilities like restrooms may have seasonal availability. Reddit

Entrance fees vary depending on the type of pass (e.g., 7-day, annual). You can purchase passes online or at park entrance stations. Check the official Acadia National Park website for current pricing. Instagram

Yes, the America the Beautiful Pass is accepted for entry into Acadia National Park, which covers access to Jesup Path and Hemlock Boardwalk. Instagram

The Wild Gardens of Acadia is part of Acadia National Park, so your park entrance fee or pass covers access to it and the adjacent Jesup Path. Reddit

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Jesup Path is considered an easy trail, with very little elevation gain. The boardwalk sections are smooth, and the dirt paths are generally well-maintained. InstagramReddit

The loop is approximately 2.2 miles, making it a relatively short and manageable walk for most visitors. Instagram+1

The boardwalk sections are generally stroller-friendly. However, some dirt or gravel paths might be a bit uneven, so a sturdy stroller is recommended. Reddit

Visitors have reported seeing owls, various bird species, and other small woodland creatures. Early mornings and quiet visits increase your chances. InstagramReddit

Dogs are allowed on Jesup Path but must be kept on a leash at all times. They are permitted on carriage roads and some trails, but not all. Always check park regulations. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning light offers soft, beautiful illumination, and is also ideal for spotting wildlife. Autumn provides stunning fall foliage for vibrant shots. Instagram+1

It's excellent for nature photography, landscape shots, wildlife, and capturing the unique textures of the boardwalk and surrounding forest. Instagram

Tripods are generally allowed in Acadia National Park, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other visitors, especially on narrow boardwalks. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive boardwalk and forest. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. Instagram

The entire boardwalk offers picturesque views. Look for areas where the light filters through the trees or where the marsh opens up for unique compositions. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Jesup Path & Hemlock Boardwalk is a fantastic choice for families. The easy, flat terrain and the unique boardwalk experience will keep kids engaged. It's a great way to introduce children to Acadia's natural beauty without the challenge of steep hikes. Reddit

Don't miss: The interpretive signs along the path can be educational, and the chance to spot wildlife like owls adds an element of excitement. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and some family photos amidst nature. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Budget Travelers

As part of Acadia National Park, Jesup Path requires an entrance fee. However, once inside the park, the trail itself is free to access. Consider purchasing a 7-day Acadia pass if you plan to explore other areas of the park, which offers great value. Instagram

This trail is a low-cost activity that provides significant scenic and natural rewards. Pack your own snacks and water to save on expenses within the park, making it an economical way to enjoy Acadia's beauty. Reddit

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Jesup Path a rewarding location, especially during autumn for its vibrant foliage and early mornings for soft light and wildlife opportunities. The boardwalk provides unique framing for shots of the marsh and forest. Instagram+1

Key shots: Focus on the textures of the boardwalk, the reflections in the marsh, and the interplay of light through the trees. Keep an eye out for birds and other small creatures that frequent the area. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Boardwalk Experience

The Jesup Path & Hemlock Boardwalk is renowned for its elevated boardwalk, a defining feature that allows visitors to traverse marshy areas without disturbing the delicate ecosystem. This unique construction provides an intimate perspective of the wetlands, surrounded by lush ferns and towering white birch trees. The gentle incline and smooth surface make it an accessible and enjoyable walk for all ages and fitness levels. InstagramReddit

Many visitors find the boardwalk to be a tranquil escape, offering a different kind of natural beauty compared to Acadia's more rugged coastal trails. The interpretive signs along the path add an educational element, detailing the flora and fauna of the area. It's a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the forest and marsh. Instagram

Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for wildlife! Rangers have been known to alert visitors to owls perched nearby, and the quiet of the boardwalk can reveal other small creatures. Visiting during the off-season or early in the morning can enhance your chances of a peaceful encounter. InstagramReddit

Autumn's Palette: Fall Foliage at Jesup Path

During the autumn months, Jesup Path & Hemlock Boardwalk transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of fall colors. The vibrant hues of the changing leaves, particularly the golden yellows of the birch trees, create a stunning visual display. This makes it a prime destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts looking to capture the essence of New England's fall beauty. Instagram+2

The combination of the boardwalk winding through the colorful foliage and the crisp autumn air makes for an unforgettable experience. It's a relatively short trail, but the visual rewards are immense, offering a serene and picturesque setting that feels almost magical. Many visitors describe it as one of the most beautiful autumn hikes they've encountered. Instagram

Best for Fall Photography: The interplay of light and color on the boardwalk and through the trees is particularly striking during the golden hour. Be prepared for crowds during peak foliage season, as this spot is highly popular. Instagram

Family-Friendly Exploration

Jesup Path & Hemlock Boardwalk is an ideal choice for families with young children or those seeking easy, accessible trails. The flat terrain and the novelty of walking on a boardwalk captivate younger visitors, making it an engaging outdoor experience. Reddit

It offers a gentle introduction to Acadia National Park's natural wonders without the strenuous climbs associated with some of its more famous hikes. Parents can relax knowing the path is safe and easy to navigate, allowing everyone to enjoy the scenery and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Reddit

Key for Families: The proximity to the Wild Gardens of Acadia also provides an added educational and visual element for children. It’s a great way to spend a couple of hours enjoying nature without overwhelming little ones. Reddit

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