Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
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After visiting Bass Harbor Light Station, head to Thurston's Lobster in Bernard, a classic Maine lobster shack hanging over lobster boat-filled Bass Harbor. Feast on lobster, chowder, salads or sandwiches, while enjoying views of Acadia's western mountains. – Hilary Nangle
Historic Significance of Bass Harbor Head Light Station
Constructed in the mid-1800s, Bass Harbor Head Light Station is esteemed as one of Maine’s most picturesque lighthouses. It was even featured on the 2012 America the Beautiful quarter. Maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard, ownership was transferred to Acadia National Park on July 8, 2020. Though visitors cannot enter the house, the external views are the real attraction.
Exploring the Lighthouse
Location and Access
Located on the southern tip of Mount Desert Island, this lighthouse guards the entrance to Bass Harbor and Blue Hill Bay. Visitors can park for free off Lighthouse Road in Bass Harbor. A short, flat path provides close-up views of the tower's cliff side and a bell.
Best Viewing Points
For the best views, follow the path through the woods at the far end of the parking lot. This leads to a steep wooden stairway and gradual stone steps that descend to a rugged trail over uneven granite rocks to the shoreline. From here, you get excellent glimpses of the lighthouse. For a closer view, scramble over the rocky shoreline’s boulders. Visitors with limited mobility should be careful due to the steep trail and often slippery stones.
Visitor Insights
Past visitors have raved about the spectacular sunrises and sunsets at Bass Harbor Head Light Station. The platform is an ideal location to observe dolphins and seals up close. However, during peak summer months, traffic congestion on the drive to the lighthouse is common, so arriving early is advisable. The parking lot is small, and parking along the access road and Route 102A is not allowed. During busy times, you may need to wait for a parking space. To avoid some of the hassle, consider taking the Island Explorer, which drops passengers off half a mile from the lighthouse. For more details, visit the National Park Service website.
