Canon Brook Trail

Why hike it

Canon Brook Trail is a quieter, character-filled approach into Acadia’s granite heart—think tranquil brook-side walking, historic stonework, and bursts of dramatic open ledge. It’s a great way to trade the crowds for a more intimate feel while still linking into big-mountain routes.

Route overview

Starting from a roadside pullout on Route 3 (Otter Creek Drive) about a mile south of the Sieur de Monts entrance, the path follows Canon Brook through shaded forest, crossing the stream on beautifully crafted stepping stones. A standout section is where the brook slices through a narrow granite crevasse—photogenic and unlike most trails in the park. Higher up, the trail wraps around Dorr’s south ridge and climbs open, slabby granite on the east face of Cadillac, then passes The Featherbed, a small pond tucked in a high saddle—perfect for a breather with views toward Dorr and Champlain.

From here, junctions open options: continue onto the Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail, drop into the A. Murray Young Path (through the gorge between Cadillac and Dorr), or connect toward the Bubble and Jordan Ponds Path. The trail itself is best treated as a connector that can anchor a bigger day.

Difficulty and length

Expect a moderate-to-strenuous hike thanks to uneven footing, brook crossings, stone stairs, and some light scrambling on granite ledges. Elevation gain is roughly 650–700 feet. The Canon Brook Trail is about 2.0 miles one way (distances vary if you include connections), and most hikers cover the out-and-back segment in roughly 2–3 hours.

Best time to hike

Late spring through early fall is prime. The forested lower trail stays cool, summer water levels usually make the crossings fun rather than fraught, and fall color is excellent. In winter or early spring, ice lingers on ledges and at crossings—traction or snowshoes may be necessary.

Tips

• Waterproof boots and (optional) trekking poles help on wet, rocky sections and crossings.
• The Featherbed makes a natural turnaround if you don’t want to commit to Cadillac’s ridge.
• This route is pleasantly less traveled—good for a calm day even when busier trails feel packed.
• Download an offline map before you go; cell service can be spotty and the web of junctions can confuse first-timers.

History and geology

Built and improved in the 1920s by local trail stewards, Canon Brook’s stone paving, steps, and crossings are part of Acadia’s historic path legacy. Geology fans will enjoy the classic Mount Desert Island granite, glacially carved terrain, the brook’s crevasse, and The Featherbed pond sitting in a small glacial basin.