KNOWLES SELECTS: MDI Peaks for All Ages
Flying Mountain (1.5 miles loop, moderate) This 284-foot granite peak at the mouth of Somes Sound is a great place to introduce kids to more rigorous hiking — the hill's steep southern ascent is eased by terraced trail work, and it's so short that kids barely have time to complain before they summit. A treeless ridge offers dazzling views up and down the long, narrow fjärd and south to island-dotted Frenchman Bay, followed by an easy descent to Valley Cove at the foot of a sheer cliff favored by nesting peregrine falcons. Reviewers have done it with a baby and a 3-year-old, and recommend going counterclockwise to get the difficult parts done while the kids have energy, since the path back from the beach is wide and flat. Acadia Mountain (2.5-mile loop, moderate) Just around the bend from Flying Mt., next to Echo Lake, sits Acadia Mountain. It's a short but steep hike leading to some of the best summit views in Acadia, and a much quieter experience than the popular east-side trails because it's out of the way near Southwest Harbor. On clear days, you can see the Cranberry Isles and parts of the mainland. The loop covers about 2.5 miles with around 700 feet of elevation gain, so it's a step up from Flying Mountain or Beech Mountain in terms of effort — but very doable for kids who are comfortable hiking. Hike it clockwise if you want to ascend the gradual face and descend the steeper face, or counter-clockwise for the steeper route up with the more gradual route down. The trailhead parking lot is on Route 102, directly across from Echo Lake Beach, which makes a wonderful swimming reward after the hike on a warm day. Beech Mountain (1.2 miles loop, easy-moderate) Beech Mountain is a less-known hike in Acadia without the crowds, and there's a historic fire tower at the top with a wonderful panorama. It's a relatively easy 1.2-mile loop trail that can be finished in less than an hour and is fit for all ages and hiking abilities, with outstanding views of Long Pond along the way. The summit, at 839 feet, offers panoramic views of Long Pond, the western side of Mount Desert Island, the ocean, and outlying islands. Kids love climbing partway up the old fire tower for a 360-degree look at the park.
30 | KNOWLESLETTER SUMMER 2026
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