Sundew Trail (Schoodic)

Why hike it

A rare combo in a tiny package: a mellow woods walk, a bog boardwalk with carnivorous plants, and multiple spurs to the rugged Schoodic shoreline. This is an easy, family‑friendly wander that stays blissfully quieter than Mount Desert Island.

What you’ll see

The namesake sundews—and often pitcher plants—grow right along the bog boardwalk in warmer months. Forest segments open to short side paths where granite slabs and cobble beaches face Mount Desert Island. Expect classic Schoodic textures: pinkish granite, surf, and seabirds. Benches at some outcrops make it easy to linger.

Route in brief

The main corridor runs about 0.9 miles one way between two Schoodic Institute parking areas (plan ~1.8 miles total if you out‑and‑back). It’s mostly level dirt and boardwalk, with signed or obvious spur paths to the rocky coast. About 0.3 miles from the trailhead, a left spur drops to Cobble Beach with small tidepools; rocks and algae here are slick—step carefully.

Difficulty and timing

It’s easy and mostly flat, with minimal elevation change. Figure 30–45 minutes for the core path, or up to 1–1.5 hours if you poke down every spur and hang out on the rocks.

Best time to hike

Year‑round for scenery; late spring through early fall to spot sundews and pitcher plants. Boardwalks and coastal rocks can be slippery after rain and icy in winter. For photography, late‑day light often plays nicely on the Schoodic coastline.

Good to know

Parking is on the Schoodic Institute campus with trailheads at both the north and south ends; many hikers just do an out‑and‑back from one lot. A park entrance pass is required while parked. Wear shoes with grip—boardwalks, algae, and granite get slick. Bring water and consider binoculars for birdwatching. If you want a wilder wave‑crash show afterward, Schoodic Point is close by, but Sundew is the quieter walk.