Homans Path

Homans Path climbs from the Jesup and Hemlock junction through the forest to Emery Path, then returns the same way. It is 0.3 miles one way, or 0.6 miles out and back; allow about 30 to 60 minutes. The payoff is a quick close-up of Acadia's granite stairwork, not a gentle woodland stroll. The route is steep and uneven, and it is not accessible to wheelchairs. A park entrance pass is required year-round.

Most of the climb is a rocky stairway. Two especially narrow sections pass beneath bridge-like granite slabs, which is what makes this short path feel like more than a straight hill climb. The tight passages and hand-built steps are the memorable part; look for occasional Frenchman Bay views when you turn around on the way down. Wet granite can be slippery, so take the descent slowly.

Park at the Sieur de Monts Nature Center, cross the small wooden bridge, pass along the left side of Wild Gardens, and follow Jesup Path to the Hemlock and Homans junction. That approach is extra to the 0.6-mile trail distance. An accessible restroom is available at Sieur de Monts, and the seasonal Island Explorer serves the area from mid-June through October. Homans ends at Emery Path; reaching Dorr Mountain's summit means continuing on other trails and adding a longer climb.

The path honors Eliza Lothrop Homans, whose land gifts helped protect areas including the Beehive and Bowl. It fell out of maintenance and disappeared from park maps in the 1940s, reopened in 2003, and was damaged by an earthquake in 2006. Repairs brought it back into use in 2007; today, its stone steps and narrow granite passages are the reason to make the climb.