Beech Mountain South Ridge Trail, Acadia National Park, Hancock County, ME

A moderately difficult, lightly used ledge and woodland summit path that begins at intersection of Valley Trail (#116) and travels up southern ridge to fire tower and ends at Beech Mountain Loop Trail (#113). Trail is laid out well with switchbacks, gentle grade and good benching along mountain side lush with pines. Tread is 2-4’ wide on soil and intermittent slab-laid 3-3.5’-wide steps have fairly even 8” risers. Well-constructed retaining wall lines much of the trail, and there have been some 1990s drainage dips added. There is an unsigned overlook just before trail reaches ledges. Then trail winds through ledge and granite landscape flora until reaching fire tower where one can enjoy excellent views of Southwest Harbor and the coast. DK, KJ, SB, MB

Significant Dates

circa 1915

Historical Context

The trail is described in the 1915 path guide as the Long Ridge Trail, "From Beech Mountain Trail, at summit, along ridge south to Great Pond Trail, near Beech Hill Road." Shown on the 1916 path map as trail #26.

Distance (e.g., miles)

0.8 miles

Route (e.g. trail)

From Long (Great) Pond pumping station, along east shore, up over ledges to the Beech Mtn. Loop Trail.

Significance

The historic trail system of Acadia National Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognized for its national significance and ties to the history of Mount Desert Island and establishment of the park. The system's period of significance starts in 1844 and ends in 1942. The listing encompasses 109 trails traversing 117 miles on Mount Desert Island (some extending outside the park) and includes 18 memorial plaques, 12 viewpoints, and unique engineering features.

NRHP Property ID

100007602

ACAD Trails ID

109

Authoritative Source

Microsoft Access database used in preparation of report Pathmakers: Cultural Landscape Report for the Historic Hiking Trail System of Mount Desert Island by Coffin Brown, Margaret, Jim Vekasi, et. al. U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, Washington, DC (2006); accessed June 2024.

External URL2

https://edits.nationalmap.gov/apps/gaz-domestic/public/search/names