Hiking is a great way to clear your head, get some exercise, and breathe in the fresh coastal air we’re so lucky to have. And we might be biased, but we can all admit that hiking in Maine is second to none. If you’re in need of a short, fairly easy hike that leads you to some rugged and rocky shoreline, look no further than the Ship Harbor Trail. This easy 1.3-mile trail will make you fall in love with Maine all over again.

The Ship Harbor Trail is located near Bass Harbor, in Acadia National Park.
James Baumgardner / alltrails.com
The 1.3-mile trail is considered a nice, easy hike, and it's great for beginners and families.
The loop, which is largely boardwalked, makes a figure 8.
Steve K / alltrails.com
No one knows why this area is called Ship Harbor, but it may be because it was once possible for ships to seek shelter in the cove.
Keep an eye out for birds like loons, common eiders, great blue herons, black guillemots, ospreys and eagles.
Tom Madsen./ alltrails.com
This hike is extremely popular for bird watching.

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Follow the boardwalks and eventually you'll come to a quiet, rocky beach.
Tom Madsen / alltrails.com
On a clear day, the views are fantastic.
At low tide, the rocky headland has a lot of tide pools to explore.
Meg Cameron / alltrails.com
Enjoy. Just make sure to be gentle with the tide pool creatures, if you see any.
You'll love walking along this rugged coastline.
Sam Ovalle / alltrails.com
You can even have your dogs with you, as long as they remain leashed.
This is one of Acadia National Park's most pleasant hikes -- and it's one you can do even if you're short on time.
Meg Cameron / alltrails.com
However, we recommend allowing plenty of time to look for birds and check out the tide pools.

Have you ever hiked the Ship Harbor Trail?

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Ship Harbor Trail, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679, USA