Goat Trail (Isle au Haut)

Goat Trail is Isle au Haut’s showpiece coastal path: rugged, quiet, and wildly scenic. It threads along the island’s southern shoreline over granite ledges and through pocket coves with constant Atlantic views. Expect rough footing, short ups and downs, and a remote vibe that’s the polar opposite of Mount Desert Island’s crowds.

Length-wise, the core Goat Trail segment is about 2.1 miles one way along the coast. Most hikers either out-and-back a portion or work it into a larger loop with the Cliff and Western Head trails (plan on 4–6+ miles total for a full circuit). On its own, the Goat Trail usually takes 1–1.5 hours; a full loop commonly takes several hours thanks to rugged terrain and photo stops.

Highlights include dramatic granite cliffs shaped by glacial and ocean forces, secluded rocky beaches, and small harbors and coves like Merchant Cove, Barred Harbor, Squeaker Cove, and Deep Cove. In late spring and summer, you’ll see wildflowers tucked among the rocks; seabirds patrol the shoreline, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a mink darting along the edges.

This is a hike that earns its views. The path is narrow, rocky, and rooty, with frequent undulations rather than big climbs. It’s rated moderate to strenuous for the terrain and remoteness, not for sustained elevation. There are cliffside sections and slick rock after rain—no technical scrambling, but you’ll use your feet carefully.

Access is half the adventure: take the mail boat from Stonington to Duck Harbor, then walk Duck Harbor Road and Western Head Road to reach the trail network. Signage exists but can be subtle, so carry the island trail map. There are no services—bring water, snacks, and layers. Most write-ups suggest hiking east to west (starting near Merchant Cove) for flattering morning light on the coastline.

Best time to hike: spring through fall for milder weather and longer days. Early summer brings lush blooms; autumn trades them for color and fewer bugs. After heavy rain, some sections—especially lower, marshy bits—can be very wet or even impassable, so check conditions with rangers. Above all, plan conservatively around the boat schedule so you’re not sprinting rugged miles to make your return.

If you have the time and legs, combine Goat Trail with the Cliff and Western Head trails (and up-and-over Duck Harbor Mountain) for a day that “encapsulates the island’s best views.” If you want solitude, raw ocean scenery, and a true Acadia outpost experience, this is the right corner of the park.