Did you know that Isle au Haut contains nearly 18% of Acadia National Park’s total land area, yet receives less than 1% of the park’s annual visitors? This remote island gem, pronounced “eye-la-HO,” offers some of Maine’s most pristine wilderness experiences for those willing to venture beyond the crowded shores of Mount Desert Island.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Isle au Haut sits approximately 10 km (6.2 mi) off Maine’s coast in Penobscot Bay. The only way to reach this secluded paradise is by passenger ferry from Stonington, a charming fishing village located at the southern tip of Deer Isle.

Ferry Information

Isle au Haut Boat Services operates the mail boat that serves as the island’s lifeline. The 45-minute ferry ride offers stunning views of the Maine coastline and surrounding islands. During summer months (mid-June through September), the ferry makes stops at both the Town Landing and Duck Harbor, which provides direct access to Acadia National Park trails. The rest of the year, service is limited to Town Landing only.

Travel Tips

• Arrive at the Stonington dock at least 60 minutes before departure to secure tickets (first-come, first-served).
• Round-trip ferry fare is approximately $38 for adults (prices subject to change).
• The drive from Bar Harbor to Stonington takes about 1.5 hours.
• Parking is available at the Isle au Haut Boat Services lot in Stonington.
• Bring everything you’ll need for the day—there are minimal services on the island.

Best Time to Visit Isle au Haut

Timing your visit to Isle au Haut is crucial for maximizing your experience on this remote island.

Weather Considerations

Isle au Haut’s weather can change rapidly. Summer days are generally pleasant, but fog can roll in quickly, especially in the morning. Pack layers, rain gear, and sun protection regardless of when you visit. The island’s exposed coastal trails can be windy even on warm days.

Getting Around Locally

Once you’ve arrived on Isle au Haut, you’ll need to navigate the island’s 8,000 acres without a car. Fortunately, there are several enjoyable ways to explore.

Biking

Biking is one of the best ways to cover ground on Isle au Haut. The island has approximately 12 miles of roads—5 miles paved and 7 miles unpaved. Mountain bikes or hybrids are strongly recommended due to the rugged terrain.

• Bring your own bike on the ferry for an additional fee (approximately $20).
• Rent bikes from Isle au Haut Boat Services for around $30 per day.
• Bikes must be disembarked at Town Landing, not Duck Harbor.
• Biking is prohibited on hiking trails.

Hiking

Walking is the primary mode of transportation within Acadia National Park’s portion of the island. A network of well-marked trails connects key points of interest, though some paths can be challenging and require proper footwear.

The Duck Harbor Trail connects Town Landing to Duck Harbor (approximately 4 miles one way), allowing hikers to explore both sections of the island.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options on Isle au Haut are extremely limited, making advance planning essential for overnight visitors.

Duck Harbor Campground

The only official camping option on Isle au Haut is Duck Harbor Campground within Acadia National Park. This primitive campground features five lean-to shelters that can accommodate up to six people each. The campground is open from May 15 to October 15, but reservations are extremely competitive.

• Reservations open April 1 and typically fill within hours.
• Each site includes a fire ring, picnic table, and lean-to shelter.
• Drinking water is available from a pump well 0.2 miles from the campground.
• Pit toilets are the only facilities available.

Stonington Accommodations

Most visitors choose to stay in Stonington on Deer Isle and take the ferry for a day trip to Isle au Haut. Stonington offers several charming inns, B&Bs, and vacation rentals with easy access to the ferry terminal.

Vacation Rentals

A handful of private homes and cottages are available for rent on Isle au Haut, primarily during summer months. These typically require minimum stays of one week and book up well in advance.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Dining options on Isle au Haut are extremely limited, so planning ahead for meals is essential.

The Maine Lobster Lady

This seasonal food truck near Town Landing is the island’s most reliable dining option. Specializing in fresh-caught lobster prepared in various ways, it’s a must-visit for seafood lovers. Their traditional lobster rolls, lobster bisque, and homemade desserts have earned a loyal following among visitors and locals alike.

The Island Store

Located in the town center, this general store offers basic groceries, snacks, beverages, and picnic supplies. During summer months, you might find locally grown produce and freshly caught seafood. The store also has picnic tables overlooking the water where you can enjoy your purchases.

Self-Catering

Most visitors bring their own food and water for day trips. If you’re planning to hike or bike around the island, pack a hearty lunch, snacks, and plenty of water. There are beautiful spots along the coastline perfect for a picnic lunch with spectacular views.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Isle au Haut offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and quiet contemplation. Here are the must-see attractions and activities.

Acadia National Park Trails

Approximately half of Isle au Haut is part of Acadia National Park, featuring some of the most scenic and secluded hiking trails in the entire park system. The southern portion of the island contains the most dramatic landscapes.

Top Hiking Trails:

• Duck Harbor Mountain Trail (3 miles round-trip): A moderately challenging trail with some of the best panoramic views on the island. The trail climbs to one of Isle au Haut’s highest points, offering 360-degree vistas of the surrounding ocean and islands.
• Cliff Trail (1.5 miles): True to its name, this trail follows dramatic cliff edges with stunning ocean views. Moderate difficulty with some rocky sections.
• Western Head Trail (1.3 miles): A coastal path offering beautiful views of the rocky shoreline and Western Ear, a small rocky islet accessible at low tide.
• Goat Trail (1.2 miles): Connects Squeaker Cove to the Western Head Trail, passing through serene forest and along picturesque coves.

Many visitors enjoy combining these trails into a loop hike of approximately 4.5 miles that showcases the island’s diverse coastal scenery.

Isle au Haut Lighthouse

Built in 1907, the Isle au Haut Light stands on Robinson Point, approximately 1 mile from Town Landing. The lighthouse features a distinctive wooden catwalk bridge and offers excellent photo opportunities. While the lighthouse itself is not open to the public, visitors can explore the grounds and enjoy views of Penobscot Bay.

Boom Beach

Located on the eastern shore of the island, Boom Beach features large rounded stones that create a distinctive booming sound when waves crash against them during storms. The beach offers excellent tide pooling opportunities at low tide, where you can discover starfish, sea urchins, and other marine creatures.

Long Pond

This freshwater lake in the northern part of the island provides a perfect swimming spot on hot summer days. With sandy beaches and clear water, it’s a refreshing alternative to the chilly ocean waters surrounding the island.

Outdoor Adventures

Beyond hiking, Isle au Haut offers several other ways to connect with nature and experience the island’s unique environment.

Kayaking & Paddling

The protected coves and harbors around Isle au Haut make for excellent kayaking. While there are no rental facilities on the island itself, experienced paddlers sometimes bring their own kayaks on the ferry (space permitting and for an additional fee). Alternatively, several outfitters in Stonington offer guided kayak tours that can include Isle au Haut in their itinerary.

Tidepooling

The rocky shoreline of Isle au Haut creates perfect conditions for tide pools teeming with marine life. At low tide, explore the pools along Western Head, Boom Beach, or near Duck Harbor to discover sea stars, crabs, anemones, and other fascinating creatures. Remember to observe without disturbing these delicate ecosystems.

Birdwatching

Isle au Haut’s diverse habitats—from spruce forests to coastal headlands—attract a wide variety of bird species. Bring binoculars to spot bald eagles, ospreys, common eiders, black guillemots, and numerous songbirds. Dawn and dusk offer the best birdwatching opportunities.

Practical Travel Tips

Make the most of your Isle au Haut adventure with these essential tips and guidelines.

What to Pack

• Hiking essentials: Sturdy footwear, layered clothing, rain gear, hat, and sunscreen.
• Food and water: Bring more than you think you’ll need—there are limited options on the island.
• Navigation: Trail maps are available at landing points, but consider bringing your own map and compass.
• First aid kit: Include basics like bandages, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
• Camera: The scenery is spectacular and worth capturing.
• Cash: Few places on the island accept credit cards.

Safety Considerations

Isle au Haut is remote with limited emergency services. Cell phone coverage is spotty or non-existent in many areas. Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time. Trails can be rugged and challenging—know your limits and hike within your abilities.

Leave No Trace

Practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve Isle au Haut’s pristine environment:

• Pack out all trash, including food scraps.
• Stay on designated trails to protect fragile vegetation.
• Respect wildlife by observing from a distance.
• Leave natural and cultural features as you find them.
• Use established campsites and fire rings only.

Experience the Untamed Beauty of Isle au Haut

Isle au Haut represents Maine at its most authentic—rugged, beautiful, and unspoiled. While reaching this remote island requires extra effort, those who make the journey are rewarded with spectacular coastal scenery, peaceful hiking trails, and a genuine connection to nature that’s increasingly rare in today’s world.

Whether you come for a day trip or an overnight camping adventure, Isle au Haut offers a chance to experience Acadia National Park as it was meant to be—wild, serene, and free from crowds. Pack your sense of adventure and prepare to discover one of Maine’s most precious hidden gems.