Photo/map album of Acadia’s Beech Mtn.

Acadia National Park offers a number of great peaks to explore and view the rugged Maine coastline. One such spot is Beech Mountain. Topping out at 839 feet, it provides an impressive view of Mount Desert Island as well as a fire tower to enjoy.

To reach the Beech Mountain Trail, from Rt. 102, head onto its western branch, also known as Pretty Marsh Road. After a quarter mile, turn left onto Beech Hill Road. In about 3.1 miles, you’ll reach the Beech Mountain parking lot. Watch for the observation tower; it can be seen from miles away.

The top of Beech Mountain, like others in the national park, consists of erosion-resistant granite:

Trail map (courtesy Acadia NPS):

A view from atop Beech Mountain:

The steel fire tower on the mountain was built in 1962:

Another mountain top view:

And yet one more:

Here's a full description of the trail.

Learn about other great national park day hiking trails in my Best Sights to See at America’s National Parks guidebook.