Let us introduce you to the Schoodic Peninsula, Acadia National Park’s quieter, yet equally as stunning neighbor to the north. Situated near the charming fishing village of Winter Harbor along the Schoodic National Scenic Byway, this district offers epic coastal views, serene hikes, and way fewer crowds. Make the one-hour drive north from Mount Desert Island or hop the Bar Harbor Ferry to Winter Harbor for a scenic ride.
Our family spent 10 days camping in the park, and we’re hooked! Schoodic Woods is a great campground- big-rig friendly, with spacious, wooded, private sites close to hiking trails and bike paths. A fantastic basecamp for exploring the peninsula.
Ready for Adventure? Here is your guide to the top 5 things to do in Schoodic Peninsula:
1. Cruise the Schoodic Loop
The 6-mile Schoodic Loop Road showcases the peninsula’s rugged beauty. Stop at Frazer Point for a picnic with calm harbor views, marvel at the crashing waves at Schoodic Point, and visit Blueberry Hill for sweeping ocean vistas and seasonal blueberry picking. There are also plenty of turnouts and photo ops along the road.
In the summer, the free shuttle (part of the Island Explorer system) makes getting around a breeze, stopping at key spots on the loop.
2. Hike and Bike the Peninsula
Schoodic is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with 8.3 miles of bike trails and stellar hiking options.
Biking: The Schoodic Loop Road is a fantastic route for bikers. Additional gravel bike paths branch off throughout the park, offering quiet rides through forests. Didn’t bring a bike? Bike rentals are offered in nearby Winter Harbor.
Hiking:
Schoodic Head Trail (1.2miles round-trip, easy-moderate): Climb to the peninsula’s highest point. Our kids loved the “awesome rock scrambling” on this short but steep hike. The summit delivers views of the harbor and surrounding islands. On a clear day, you can even see Cadillac Mountain and Mount Desert Island!
Lower Harbor Trail (1.5 miles, easy): Near Schoodic Woods Campground, this trail winds through forests with coastal views. There are a few rocky sections and tree roots to watch out for, but otherwise a manageable family hike. We loved the shoreline views and the boardwalk crossing over a small cascade.
Want more trails? See our post on Exploring the Best Hikes in Maine.
3. Marvel at Schoodic Point
Schoodic Point is the peninsula’s crown jewel and our favorite spot in the park. Rugged coastline meets crashing waves, creating epic views, prime bird watching, and unforgettable sunsets. On clear days, you can spot lighthouses and Mount Desert Island across the water.
Walk the shoreline, feel the ocean spray, and take in the gorgeous coastal views. When hiking on the rocks, bring study shoes for uneven surfaces that can be slippery when wet.
4. Visit the Schoodic Institute
The Schoodic Institute is a must visit for curious travelers wanting to learn more about the region. This research and education center offers a small museum and exhibits, gift shop, and passport stamp station.
We joined a ranger-led tidepool program with touch tanks, and the kids were fascinated! The engaging, informative session taught us about the local marine life. Check the Schoodic Institute event calendar for free walks, talks, and family-friendly activities.
5. Explore Tidepools at Little Moose Island
At low tide, head to Little Moose Island. Accessible by foot from the mainland, this small island offers a peaceful 1-mile round-trip walk with rocky shores and vibrant tidepools.
Following the recommendation from our ranger program, exploring the tide pools was a great family activity on a cool, foggy morning. The island is only accessible during low tide, so be sure to check the tide charts and plan accordingly.
There was plenty of sea life to be found, including periwinkles, mussels, sea stars and snails. Speaking of snails, looking for a DownEast Maine delicacy? Check out pickled wrinkles (yes, that’s a real thing). You can try them for yourself at the nearby restaurant- The Pickled Wrinkle in Birch Harbor.
Tips for Visiting Schoodic Peninsula
- Timing: Summer is perfect for outdoor activities like tidepools, hiking, and biking. Fall offers quieter crowds and beautiful fall foliage.
- Getting There: Drive from Bar Harbor (about 1 hour) or take the Bar Harbor Ferry to Winter Harbor. No Island Explorer bus on the peninsula, but the Schoodic Shuttle runs in summer.
- Food Prep: Pack snacks—dining options are limited. Winter Harbor has cute cafes for post-adventure bites. We recommend The Bakery for coffee, fresh sweet treats, and delicious Maine blueberry pie!
- Gear: Bring layers for coastal weather and sturdy shoes for trails and tidepools.
- Keep Schoodic Beautiful: Follow Leave No Trace—pack out trash, stick to marked trails and paths.
- More Acadia: Explore more with our guide for the Top Things to See in Acadia National Park.
Schoodic Peninsula is Acadia National Park’s hidden gem, where rugged coastlines, tranquil trails, and vibrant tidepools create a perfect escape from the crowds. Our family’s adventure to Schoodic left us hooked, with its serene beauty and endless discoveries.
It’s a place that invites you to slow down, breathe in the salty air, and connect with nature’s rugged beauty. We hope this guide helps to plan your own getaway to Schoodic.
Looking for more to discover in Maine? Check out our post on How To Experience The Best of Coastal Maine in One Summer.
Happy travels!
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