Place
This is Acadia’s practical, pleasantly wooded connector between Blackwoods Campground and Otter Cove—perfect when you want to reach Ocean Drive and Ocean Path without dealing with parking or busy roads. Expect a moderate, mostly shaded walk with a few rocky and rooty stretches typical of Acadia. It’s not a big-view hike; think peaceful forest vibes, occasional peeks toward Otter Cove, and a dose of local history.
The Quarry Trail runs about 1.5 miles one way (roughly 3.0 miles total out-and-back), with about 232 feet of rolling gain and loss. The tread is generally good but uneven in spots, so sturdy shoes help. You’ll pass near remnants of historic granite quarries—subtle but meaningful context for Mount Desert Island’s past—along granite outcrops and glacially shaped terrain.
Use this path to stitch together bigger days: from Otter Cove, continue onto Ocean Path for classic surf-and-granite scenery, or branch toward Gorham Mountain and Champlain Mountain for steeper climbs and sweeping views. That’s the play if you want drama; Quarry Trail itself is more about quiet access than wow-factor vistas.
Best time to hike: spring through fall for comfortable footing and temps, with a standout foliage window in autumn. It’s open year-round, but expect slick roots and rocks after rain or in shoulder seasons. Summer brings mosquitoes—pack repellent. The trailhead convenience is hard to beat for campers: it starts across from the Blackwoods Campground check-in area.
Tips: Make Quarry Trail your no-car gateway to sunrise or golden-hour rambles on Ocean Path, then loop back for a mellow forest cooldown. If you’re chasing top-tier scenery, commit to Gorham Mountain or the coastal slabs; if you want a calm commute through the woods, this is your underrated lane. Bring grippy footwear, accept the limited views, and enjoy the quiet.
History note: Dedicated in June 2014 through a partnership focused on non-motorized access, the route nods to Acadia’s quarrying heritage while solving a very modern problem—getting around without a car.
Pros
- Car-free access from Blackwoods to Ocean Path and Gorham/Champlain networks
- Subtle pass-by of historic granite quarry remnants
Cons
- Limited views compared to nearby coastal or summit trails
- Rocky, rooty footing in places despite overall moderate grade
Parking
Start across from the Blackwoods Campground check-in area; campers can walk from their site. Limited roadside options nearby along Park Loop Road.
Caution
Uneven, rocky and rooty sections; can be slick after rain. Mosquitoes common in late spring and summer—bring repellent.
