This Maine Landscape Turns Into a Serene Frozen Wonderland During Winter

As much as I prefer to stay toasty at home on a cold winter day, I’m also drawn to the outdoors. Few times are as magical as right after a fresh snowfall when the temperatures have dipped low enough for icicles to dangle from trees, snow to dust rocks in tranquil streams, and waterfalls to freeze in mid-tumble. One of the most enchanting winter destinations in Maine, Hadlock Falls transforms into a wonderland during the season’s coldest days, making a hike to the cascade a must on any adventurer’s bucket list.

The journey along the four-mile Hadlock Loop Trail from Carriage Road, which meanders through Acadia National Park, promises awe-inspiring beauty, but those spellbinding views come with some challenges, including several steep inclines and poor trail markings. However, in return for conquering those obstacles, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a quiet wonderland, where you probably won’t run into many other hikers or mountain bikers, especially in the winter.

Start your adventure by pulling into a parking space at the Parkman Mountain lot. All visitors must have an entrance pass for Acadia National Park. Standard, annual, and America the Beautiful passes can all be purchased online. If you’re concerned about the poor signage reported by hikers, consider downloading AllTrails+  to help you stay on track.

The dog-friendly trail follows along the well-maintained gravel Carriage Road. If you’re hiking when it’s snowy and icy, wear sturdy, waterproof boots to help you navigate the winter landscape. An uphill climb will quickly greet you on the trail that features a total incline of nearly 300 feet.

Stroll along the snowy path flanked by trees, as sunlight shimmers through the branches, and over several bridges. Listen for the sound of water flowing in nearby streams as your every step crunches in the snow, and keep an eye out for small waterfalls, all leading to Hadlock Falls, undeniably the trail's highlight. View the cascading – or frozen, depending on how low the temperatures have dropped – 40-foot waterfall from the nearby Waterfall Bridge.

The picturesque path will also take you to Hadlock Pond, another idyllic spot to stop for a moment of reflection while enjoying the wintry scenery. This is one of those trails that boasts countless photo-worthy moments, so don’t forget your camera.

Do you have a favorite winter destination in Maine that transforms into a frozen wonderland in the coldest months? Fill out a nomination form and we might feature it in an upcoming article.

After you’ve hiked to Hadlock Falls, explore more of Acadia National Park, one of the most magnificent natural wonders in Maine. Once you’ve worked up a mighty appetite, dig into one of the best steaks in Bar Harbor, Maine, at Jack Russell’s Steakhouse & Brewery, and then check into a local rental for a restful night’s sleep. Find that great night's sleep using our new Travel Planner!