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Lighthouse · Bar Harbor, Maine
Bass Harbor Head Light
An 1858 lighthouse atop a rocky promontory on the island’s southwest tip, still operational. A staircase descends to the rocks where you can see the white tower on the cliff.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Bass Harbor Head Light
Bass Harbor Head Light was first lit in 1858 to mark the entrance to Bass Harbor and Blue Hill Bay, on the island’s southwest tip. The brick tower painted white is about 10 meters tall and adjoins the keeper’s house atop a granite rock. The light remains in operation and is automatic.
The lighthouse is inside Acadia National Park, but the keeper’s house is a residence and is not open to visitors. From the parking area a short paved path leads near the tower and the fog bell. The most familiar view is from below: a trail with wooden stairs descends to the coastal rocks, from which the lighthouse is seen atop the cliff.
The island’s west side, called the “quiet side,” has fishing villages like Bass Harbor, Bernard and Southwest Harbor. Near the lighthouse the Ship Harbor trail begins, following a tidal inlet to the open coast, and there are walks to Wonderland, an easy path through firs and rocks.
The parking area is small and fills in late afternoon, when many people arrive for the sunset, which occurs behind the lighthouse.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to an hour, including the descent to the rocks.
Best time
In the late afternoon, when the light hits the tower from the side and the sun sets to the west. To avoid the crowded parking lot, prefer the morning. In fog, common at the start of summer, the lighthouse can disappear from view.
How to get there
It’s in Tremont, about 30 km from Bar Harbor via routes 233 and 102. The Island Explorer reaches Southwest Harbor and Bass Harbor for part of the season; check the routes. Driving is the most practical option.
Tip
Wear sturdy footwear to descend onto the rocks, which become slippery with moisture and seaweed. Combine the visit with the Ship Harbor trail, just a few minutes away.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Bass Harbor Head Light
Can you go inside Bass Harbor Head Light?
No. the keeper’s house is a private residence and the tower is not open for visits. Visitors can get close along the paved path and the stairs that descend to the rocks.
How far is Bar Harbor from Bass Harbor Light?
About 30 km, which takes around 40 minutes by car, crossing the island to the west side.
Best time to photograph Bass Harbor Light?
Late afternoon is the most popular, with the sun setting behind the tower. In the morning the light is softer and there are fewer people.