Jutting up from the Northern Atlantic seaboard, where the land breaks off into islands that stretch east to greet each day, is Cadillac Mountain. The largest of the 20 peaks on Mount Desert Island, Cadillac Mountain’s summit tops out at 1,530 feet (466 m) in elevation. After Mount Corcovado in Rio de Janeiro, Cadillac’s summit is the tallest point on the western shores of the Atlantic. For several months each year, its summit is the first place to see the sun rise.
The summit of Cadillac may be reached on foot or by car. Towards the end of the nineteenth century, visitors eager to see the summit and stay in the hotel that once stood there could reach the top of the mountain by train, but after the railroad was closed due to underwhelming ticket sales, the two locomotives were sold to the Mount Washington Railway which had little time to recover from a damaging fire that broke out just in time for the tourist season in 1893. The hotel, which was busted by the Bar Harbor Police in 1895 for flouting prohibition laws (Maine was mostly dry from 1846 until 1934). Beginning in 1896, the hotel was taken down and the remaining structure was burned.
If you choose to drive up to the summit, you’ll take Cadillac Summit Road. At the top, there is a half-mile loop around the summit, where you can get a great view of the island and the other islands in Frenchman Bay. Be sure to drive extra carefully on Cadillac Summit Road, as it is a popular route for Lycra-clad cyclists.
There are a couple of options for hiking to the summit. The North Ridge Trail is a little over two miles long, and steep enough in some spots to necessitate a scramble. However, much of the climb is open, but not too far from the trees to catch the gentle perfume of the balsams. Combined with the magnificent views, the experience is truly magical. The West Face Trail is considerably more difficult, and about three miles in length. It is a steep trail, so if you’re going when there may be ice, spikes are recommended. The South Ridge Trail is a loop, about seven and a half miles long. Compared to the other trails, it is easier, with a gradual climb. However, what you gain in ease you sacrifice in the views. The Gorge Path is shorter, at just under two miles, but is more strenuous. Starting in the valley between Cadillac and its neighbor, Dorr Mountain, the Gorge Trail ascends along a rocky sylvan stream, before rising onto the rock to reach the summit. If you’re just looking to get to the top without wearing yourself out too much, though, the South Ridge Trail may be what you’re looking for. Take your time and enjoy a stop at the Featherbed, a pond along the trail.
As French seamen were exploring the region that is now known as Down East Maine, Cadillac Mountain was the first peak on their radar. Although its elevation is not prolific on a global scale or even on a national scale, it is the tallest thing around, and if you ever get a chance to sail along the rugged coast of Maine, it is just as impressive as the vistas its summit affords. Visit in the summertime for the best hiking, climbing, and for the most comfortable weather (but be prepared for the pesky black flies). To be among the first people in the nation to see daybreak, be sure to get to the top early in the wintertime.
