Place · 1.1 mi away
Overview
Schoodic Head is the Schoodic Peninsula’s high point (about 442 feet) and the spot to get that big ocean-and-island panorama without the Mount Desert Island crowds. The summit itself is a rounded, mostly wooded bump, but ledges and nearby outlooks open up views to Mount Desert Island, Schoodic Point, and the Gulf of Maine.
Why it’s worth your time
On Schoodic, elevated viewpoints are rare—this is the mountaintop experience here. The vibe is intentionally low-key and minimally developed, so you get coastal vistas and mossy spruce–birch forest without the bustle.
Trails and how to hike it
Multiple trails knit together to reach the top:
- Schoodic Head Trail (about 0.6 miles one-way): short but rocky with some steep pitches and minor scrambles.
- Anvil Trail: climbs past “the Anvil,” a rocky outcrop with its own views.
- Alder Trail and Schoodic Head East Trail: alternatives that let you make a satisfying loop.
Common access is from the small Blueberry Hill parking area on the one-way Schoodic Loop Road; Schoodic Woods Campground has more parking but is farther away. Expect roughly 425 feet of gain if you start near sea level.
What you’ll see
- Big views over the Schoodic coastline, offshore islands, Mount Desert Island, and open Atlantic.
- Classic coastal granite ledges shaped by glaciers and storm waves.
- In season, look for wildflowers and fungi on the forest floor.
Wildlife
Keep an eye out for seabirds and gulls swirling along the cliffs and open ledges. Bring binoculars if birding is your thing.
Logistics and expectations
There are no services at the summit: no water, no restrooms, no picnic tables. Frazer Point (elsewhere on the peninsula) has restrooms, drinking water, and picnic tables, and Schoodic Woods is the nearby campground. Dogs are allowed on-leash (6 feet).
Best time to visit
- Early morning for solitude and soft side-light on the islands.
- Weekdays are typically quieter than peak summer weekends.
- Sunset can cast nice color but you won’t get a direct horizon drop; aim for golden hour for the best photos.
- Coastal weather changes fast—carry a layer even on warm days.
Pros
- Quiet, panoramic high point of the Schoodic Peninsula
- Short, linkable trail network with fun granite ledges
Cons
- No facilities at the summit
- Trails include steep, rocky sections and light scrambling
Tips
- Park at the small Blueberry Hill lot and build a loop via Anvil and Alder.
- Trekking poles and sturdy shoes help on steep, rooty pitches.
- Carry water and snacks—there are no services at the summit.
- Have your park pass; rangers do spot checks on the Schoodic Loop Road.
- Start early for quieter trails and better photography light.
