Ladder Trail in Acadia National Park

Ladder Trail

Alternating between iron ladders and stone steps, this is one of the most challenging routes up Dorr Mountain.

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Ladder Trail Details

This ladder-and-stone-step trail climbs the steep eastern side of the mountain, offering spectacular views over Frenchman's Bay and the Tarn for those brave enough to look away from the rock face. The trail begins between Dorr and Champlain Mountains and quickly begins the series of old, but stable, iron ladders and massive granite steps, alternating between open ledge and scrubby pitch-pine forest until it begins the incredibly steep ascent to the summit. For even better views, take the intersection with the Dorr Mountain North Ridge Trail, which continues to ascend for another mile.

Difficulty

High

Distance

0.6 mile

Estimated time

50 minutes

Region

N/A

Nearby Parks Around Ladder Trail

Compare nearby parks around Ladder Trail when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.

4.5 mi away

Acadia

National Park · ME

106.9 mi away

Baxter

National Park · ME

195.3 mi away

Cape Cod

National Park · MA

639.7 mi away

Shenandoah

National Park · VA

708.8 mi away

Cuyahoga

National Park · OH

968.7 mi away

Indiana Dunes

National Park · IN

Nearby Points of Interest Around Ladder Trail

Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Ladder Trail while the map context is still fresh.

0.0 mi away

Dorr Mountain

A 3.3-mile strenuous loop hike for those looking for ocean and island views.

0.3 mi away

Canon Brook Trail

A pre-Revolutionary War road that has been transformed into a walking path.

0.5 mi away

Mount Champlain

A 2.1-mile moderate out-and-back hike.

0.5 mi away

Beachcroft Trail

Impressive stone staircases, 1,482 total steps, provide a short, invigorating hike.

0.5 mi away

Kane Path

This path leads to the Tarn, one of the Park's smaller, but most picturesque ponds.