Jesup-Hemlock Loop

The Jesup-Hemlock Loop is Acadia’s quintessential easy walk: a flat, 1.5-mile loop that pairs a long, photogenic boardwalk through birch and wetland with a shaded stroll under tall hemlocks. It starts by the Sieur de Monts Nature Center and the Wild Gardens of Acadia, just outside Bar Harbor, making it a low-stress add-on to any park day.

Route and what to expect

You’ll begin on Jesup Path’s wide wooden boardwalk, which floats above a fragile wetland and a striking stand of white birch. As the boardwalk ends, the route meets Hemlock Path and enters the open expanse of the Great Meadow. From here, you’ll carefully cross Park Loop Road (there are two road crossings on this loop and no crosswalks), turn right on the Great Meadow Loop, then turn right again to re-cross Park Loop Road and return via Hemlock Path/Hemlock Road (about 0.2 miles in forest) back toward the meadow and your start. The loop is essentially flat, with roughly 30–35 feet of total elevation change.

Scenery and wildlife

This loop shows off a rare mix of habitats in a short distance: elevated wetland and birch groves, open meadow, and cool, shady hemlock forest. Birders do well here—watch and listen for warblers and woodpeckers along the boardwalk—and keep an eye on the meadow edges for deer. Beavers frequent the area, and lucky hikers occasionally spot a barred owl tucked in the trees. In spring and summer, ferns and mosses thrive; in fall, the birch canopy turns a glowing yellow.

Accessibility and conditions

The Jesup boardwalk is wide and flat, making it friendly for strollers and many wheelchairs. The Hemlock section is packed dirt/gravel—generally smooth, but not as consistently accessible as the boardwalk. The boardwalk can be slick after rain, and in winter both the boardwalk and paths may be icy or snow-covered.

Tips, logistics, and nearby extras

Parking is at Sieur de Monts (by the Nature Center/Wild Gardens). This area gets busy; the free Island Explorer bus is an easy alternative when lots fill. Pair the loop with a visit to the Wild Gardens or the nearby Abbe Museum for a half-day that mixes nature and culture. Restrooms and water are available seasonally at Sieur de Monts.

Best time to hike

Early morning brings soft light on the birches, easier parking, and more bird activity. Spring is lush (bring bug spray), summer stays pleasantly cool in the forest, and fall color is a standout. The loop is open year-round, but after storms you may need traction or snowshoes.