Isle au Haut

Isle au Haut: A Hidden Gem in Acadia National Park

When you want to escape the crowds and experience the most rugged and remote section of Acadia National Park, visit Isle au Haut. Almost half of the island is parkland. The village and town dock are on the northern end, and the park occupies 2,900 acres on the southern end. Isle au Haut lures hikers with 18 miles of trails, stargazers with low light pollution, bird lovers who want to add to their life list, and backcountry campers with five lean-to sites. The island also features mossy spruce forests, cobbled beaches, a swimming lake, and stunning headland viewpoints. Due to limited access by the park service, this secluded haven remains blissfully free from tourist crowds.

How to Get There

Ferry Service

Unless you own a boat, the only way to reach Isle au Haut is via the Isle au Haut Boat Service's passenger ferry from Stonington, located at the base of the Blue Hill peninsula on Deer Isle. It's advisable to plan your visit between mid-June and mid-September when the ferry travels to the park's Duck Harbor dock. Outside of this window, you'll need to embark on a 5-mile walk along rugged roads or trails to reach the park. Be sure to make boat reservations in advance as the departure times vary depending on the season and month. For the latest information, check the official website.

Travel from Mount Desert Island

If you're staying on Mount Desert Island, where most of Acadia's attractions are found, allocate at least two hours to get to Stonington, find parking, and pick up your tickets. Upon arrival at Isle au Haut's dock, a park ranger will greet the ferry, provide an overview of this section of Acadia, suggest activities for day visitors, and check in campers.

Visitor Experience

Visitors often praise the serene views and tranquility of Isle au Haut. It's recommended to allow ferry passengers some time to disperse before starting your hike. While some visitors mention biting insects in the campground, this is generally not an issue on the trails. Applying strong bug spray frequently and wearing insect-repellent-treated clothing is advisable. The Western Head and Cliff trails are particularly celebrated for their moderate terrain and breathtaking views.

Camping on Isle au Haut

If you plan to camp, ensure you are well-prepared. Reservations are mandatory for the five lean-tos, each equipped with a picnic table, food box, and fire pit. Campers must bring all their equipment and food, as the island's only store is located in the village, approximately 5 miles north of the campsite, and there is no public transportation on the island. Remember to bring a container for fresh water from the pump, which is a decent walk from the campsites.