The 3 Best Hiking And Trekking Tours in Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor’s rugged coastline, rocky trails, and sweeping views make it a prime spot for outdoor adventures. Unlike some places that offer generic guided hikes, this area provides a remarkable mix of options — from exclusive private tours to active biking and hiking experiences. Whether you want a deep dive into Acadia National Park’s stunning scenery or a leisurely walk with expert commentary, there’s something for every level of outdoor lover. The key is choosing the right tour that matches your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend exploring.
In this guide, we’ll explore the three best hiking and trekking tours in Bar Harbor, each with its own flavor. From comprehensive full-day private options to biking combined with hiking, these tours will help you see Acadia’s natural beauty in a way that suits your style. Read on to find the perfect fit for your trip.
Quick Overview
Our top picks include a full-day private tour and hike that customizes your experience around your interests, a private land and sea tour that lets you choose what to explore, and a bike and hike combination tour that covers more ground in less time. All tours offer personalized attention, knowledgeable guides, and access to iconic sites like Jordan Pond, Thunder Hole, and Cadillac Mountain. For those wanting an in-depth, flexible adventure, the full-day private options (Acadia Full Day Private Tour and Hike, Acadia: Private Tour and Hike) are ideal. If you prefer to combine biking and hiking, the Acadia Full-Day Private Bike & Hike Tour offers a dynamic way to explore.
1. Acadia Full Day Private Tour and Hike
At number one, the Acadia Full Day Private Tour and Hike stands out for its completely customizable approach. For around $765.85 per person, you get a tailored experience that can span from 6 to 10 hours, depending on your pace and interests. Your guide, an expert naturalist, will craft a day based on your priorities — whether that’s exploring Thunder Hole, walking along the Ocean Path, or tackling the more challenging Precipice Trail (be warned — that trail is not for the faint of heart or those afraid of heights).
What makes this tour unique is the flexibility. You might spend the morning wandering Jordan Pond or Marveling at Bubble Rock before heading up Cadillac Mountain for a panoramic view. The guide not only shares stories about Acadia’s wildlife and history, but also stops to serve a picnic lunch, adding a relaxed touch to a busy day. The tour is perfect for families, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone wanting an immersive experience without the rush of a group tour. With a 5.0-star rating from 61 reviews, it’s clear that guests find this personalized approach memorable and worth the investment.
Bottom Line: This private tour offers the most flexibility and deep engagement with Acadia’s highlights, making it a top pick for those who want to customize their adventure.
2. Acadia: Private Tour and Hike
At number two, the Acadia: Private Tour and Hike is slightly shorter — about 7 hours — but still offers a fully personalized experience. Starting at $851 per person, this tour emphasizes customization. You meet your guide and select what you most want to see and do in the park, whether that’s exploring the rugged coastline, walking around Jordan Pond, or taking a boat ride along the coast.
What’s notable about this experience is the direct input you have on your itinerary. The guide works with you to pick walks suited to your fitness level and interests, making it ideal for active travelers who want to avoid cookie-cutter tours. The focus on both land and sea (if you choose to include a boat ride) ensures a well-rounded exploration of Acadia’s diverse landscapes. The guide’s local knowledge means you’ll get insights beyond the usual sights, and the flexibility allows for spontaneous stops or extended hikes if you’re feeling energetic.
Bottom Line: Perfect for visitors who want the freedom to shape their day and experience Acadia’s nature on their terms.
3. Acadia Full-Day Private Bike & Hike Tour
Number three on our list is the Acadia Full-Day Private Bike & Hike Tour, which combines two active pursuits into one day. For $1,034 per person, this 8-hour adventure is suited for those who want to cover more ground and experience both the scenery by bike and on foot. The tour includes cycling around Jordan Pond and Eagle Lake, along with guided hikes that highlight Acadia’s natural and cultural highlights.
This tour is especially good if you’re comfortable with physical activity and want to see a wide variety of environments. Cycling allows you to reach spots that are farther apart, like the light-hearted Bubble Rock and the quiet lakeshores. The guide shares insights into Acadia’s natural history and points out wildlife along the way, making it an educational as well as an active experience. Reviews praise the personalized approach and the ability to explore iconic sites at a comfortable pace.
Bottom Line: For those who enjoy an energetic, multi-modal day, this combined bike and hike tour is a fantastic way to see more of Acadia in less time.
How to Choose
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend outdoors. If you prefer a highly personalized experience and have a full day to spare, the private full-day Acadia Full Day Private Tour and Hike is an excellent choice. If you’re curious about a flexible itinerary that includes land and sea, the Acadia: Private Tour and Hike offers more control over what you see. For active travelers who want to combine cycling and hiking, the Acadia Full-Day Private Bike & Hike Tour provides a dynamic, varied day.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (summer and early fall), to secure your preferred date and guide. Consider also your physical condition; some trails and activities like Precipice Trail require confidence with heights and good stamina.
Final Thoughts
Bar Harbor’s combination of rugged coastline, scenic trails, and mountain views means there’s no shortage of ways to explore Acadia National Park on foot or by bike. For a flexible, all-day adventure, the private tours (full-day hike, hike) are excellent. Those seeking an active, varied experience will love the bike and hike option, while travelers wanting a more tailored, full immersion should consider the private full-day options.
No matter which you choose, booking in advance and communicating your interests will ensure your trip to Acadia becomes a memorable outdoor experience. With so many stunning views and trails, it’s worth getting the most out of your visit — so pick the tour that fits your pace and style, and get ready for some incredible Maine scenery.