Bernard Mountain Loop offers vistas, forested walk
The Bernard Mountain Loop offers a unique opportunity to explore the scenic, wooded terrain west of Somes Sound in Acadia National Park.
Stretching 2.9 miles and boasting significant elevation gain, the route takes hikers to the top of Bernard Mountain with a few vistas along the way. It’s appropriate for both seasoned and beginner level hikers.
The trailhead is located off of Mill Field Road northwest of Western Mountain Road. There’s a parking lot at the trailhead..
Start the hike by taking the Sluiceway Trail north. You’ll gently ascend through a dense, evergreen woods. Pine needles line the path, though it is rocky and laden with tree roots at spots.
At 0.4 miles, take the Great Notch Trail to the right/east. The trail soon veers north heading to its namesake, the Great Notch.
You’ll reach the notch – which sits between Bernard Mountain to the west and Mansell Mountain to the east – at about 1 mile. There’s a log bench, and it marks a good resting spot. Be aware that stretches of trail near the notch can be wet in spring or after a good rainfall.
From the notch, head left/west onto the Bernard Mountain Trail. There is a designated overlook that gives a nice view of Mansell Mountain and Southwest Harbor
The climb on this section of the trail can be steep as it rises to Knight Nubble – a minor peak – with tree roots growing across the path. The nubble sits at 930 feet above sea level.
At 1.4 miles, you’ll meet the Sluiceway Trail on the left. If there is an injury or another reason to abort the hike, you can take the Sluiceway Trail directly back to your parking lot. Presuming not, continue straight-right/southwest on the Bernard Mountain Trail.
You’ll continue descending to Little Notch at 890 feet. Some hemlock trees slightly obstruct the view, but you still can see much of the western portion of Mount Desert Island.
Following the overlook, you’ll climb again to the summit of Bernard Mountain, which sits at 1071 feet, the national park’s sixth tallest peak The top is forested, so there are no great views from it.
From there, the trail descends. At 1.9 miles, you’ll reach the junction with the West Ledge Trail; stay on the Bernard Mountain Trail to reach the parking lot.
After some alternating modern and steep descents, as well as a couple of wooden footbridges, you’ll arrive back at your vehicle.
The trail will be busy on weekends from 9 am to 4 pm., so if looking for a little solitude, save this route for a weekday.
Learn about other great national park day hiking trails in my Best Sights to See at America’s National Parks guidebook.
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