Eagle Lake Loop - Acadia
Eagle Lake sits in the heart of Acadia National Park, and this 7.4-mile loop around it is one of the finest carriage road runs in New England. The surface is smooth packed gravel — wide, well-maintained, and built by the Rockefeller family a century ago. You're in the trees for much of it, with the lake appearing through the pines in glimpses that make you slow down every time. The elevation is gentle and rolling — nothing that'll break you, everything that'll reward you. No cars, no traffic, just you, the lake, and the kind of quiet that Bar Harbor delivers when you get off the main road. An absolute must-run if you're visiting Acadia.
Distance
7.25 miles
Elevation
345 ft
Difficulty
Moderate
Surface
Gravel
Route Map
Route Highlights
Eagle Lake views throughout the loop
Carriage roads — car-free, perfectly maintained
Dense pine forest with mountain backdrop
Accessible trailhead with parking
Runnable year-round in good conditions
Parking & Access
Eagle Lake trailhead parking lot off Eagle Lake Road, just outside Bar Harbor. Free with Acadia National Park pass. Arrive early in summer — fills up by 9am. Dogs welcome on leash (6 ft max). Pack out all pet waste. Note: swimming in Eagle Lake is not permitted for dogs as it's a public water supply.
Safety
Well-populated carriage road, excellent cell coverage, very solo-friendly. Shared with cyclists so stay aware.
Best Seasons
Surface Types
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