Reviews about Schoonic Road/Sea-Kayaking &

Hello,

We are visiting Acadia this coming weekend (May 9th) and I have a few queries I would greatly appreciate all your opinions on

a) We are exploring the option of doing sea-kayaking for 3 hrs near the Porcupine Islands. How does that experience rate as into the Acadia geography? We shall do one where we can see the sunset from the water but it so happens that Saturday will at least be cloudy if not rainy - does that change choosing the kayaking experience?

b) Like everyone else to Acadia, we will be driving the Park Loop Road and visit Somes Sound. Considering we would do these, does visiting the Schoodic peninsula and the Schoodic road make sense? It might not be on the top features of the park due to maybe not many people doing it, but are they not doing it due to the distance or also because its not very different that Park Loop for an incremental 2 hrs of driving? Its an even more important decision for us as we can either do sea-kayaking or the Schoodic Loop. Which should we choose?

c) Some websites mention Precipice trail will be closed now due to the nesting Peregrines while others say it %26#39;might%26#39; be. Is it closed? And if it is closed, is there a replacement trail will similar views which is not too harsh on the climbers?

We had plans of camping at the Blackwoods ground but the rain and subsequent temperature drop will probably make us stay @ Bar Harbor instead.

We will be @ Acadia for a day and a half only. Are there any other things we should include in the itinerary?

Thanks a ton!

Ravi

Reviews about Schoonic Road/Sea-Kayaking %26amp;

If you are going to be in the area for only a day and a half, definitely skip Schoodic. It isn%26#39;t that much different than Otter Point on the Loop Road. It is mostly popular for viewing during a storm because it takes the full impact of the crashing waves on its bare granite shore.

Kayaking is definitely worth it, even if you don%26#39;t see the sunset. There are good guides who will make your trip safe, easy, and enjoyable.

The Precipice Trail is definitely closed because the peregrine falcons are defening their nests. The Beehive trail, very nearby, gives you the same views. Both those trails are not for anyone who fears heights or drop-offs. You get a similar view with much less danger or effort on the Great Head trail. One walks across Sand Beach and then climbs the little headland on the other side. It%26#39;s about an hour%26#39;s loop trail. Very nice. A detailed map or hiking guide is always a good thing, as is a stop at the Visitor Center just north of Bar Harbor. They have a large relief model of all of Acadia.

Sadly the Jordan Pond House with their famous tea and popovers on the lawn will not yet be open when you are here. They open May 15th.

Reviews about Schoonic Road/Sea-Kayaking %26amp;

I agree with bonniemaev, pass on Schoodic Point as you won%26#39;t be maximizing your time in the park. If your choice is between Schoodic Point and kayaking, I would go kayaking. If kayaking is out due to weather and you want to see a good view of the park from the water, you can always walk across the bar to Bar Island. Not quite the same but still a very nice view of the town of Bar Harbor with Cadillac Mtn in the background.

As for the Precipice trail, again I agree with bonniemaev. The Beehive is a worthy substitute. However, I am puzzled by your ';not too harsh on the climbers'; comment. You do know both trails have exposed ledges and use iron rungs right? ';Harsh'; can be slightly subjective depending on your experience but these trails are two of the more difficult rated trails in the park.

If you want to see the exact same view as you would at the top of the Precipice Trail, look at the Bear Brook Trail. Both trails meet at the top of Champlain Mtn. The Bear Brook Trail is short (1 mile) up and has a nice steady slope.

As for other things to do, I would consider making the day out of driving the Park Loop road and doing some hikes that are accessed from it: The Bear Brook Trail, Gorham Mtn, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Cliffs, Jordan Pond house and nature trail, Bubble Rock, and then up to Cadillac Mtn. Sounds like a lot but you could enjoy these at a leisurely pace. If you leave after an early breakfast and pack a lunch, you could be back by dinner.