Birding at the Precipice

One of the most iconic hikes in Acadia National Park is the Precipice trail on the one-way section of the park loop road. This 800ft cliff provides courageous hikers an unforgettable experience as they climb iron rungs and ladders to ascend to the top of Champlain Mountain. However, every year from March to the middle of August the Precipice is closed to hikers for nesting birds. Please check park alerts for updated information on Peregrine Falcon nesting closures. These trail closures not only protect visitors but also the Peregrine Falcon who since 1991,have returned to this location each year to breed.

Details

Activity

Birdwatching

Pets Allowed

Yes

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer

Time of Day

Day, Dawn

An adult peregrine falcon flying

Will Green, Friends of Acadia, NPS

One of the best ways to see the falcons is by participating in the Peregrine Falcon Watch Program. This program is offered from the end of May through July, 9am- 12pm, on varying days of the week. Up to date schedules can be found on the park calendar. Park rangers provide spotting scopes to assist visitors in seeing the Peregrine Falcon up on the cliffs. July can be an exciting month because that is when the fledglings are often learning how to fly. Instead of two adults there can now be from three to six falcons flying around the cliff face. To learn more about Peregrine Falcon in Acadia, experience the Peregrine Falcon story map.

The falcon viewing area itself can be a productive area to bird during the breeding season itself. With mixed woods gracing either side of the park loop road, song birds are seen crossing over the viewing area throughout the day. Black-throated Green warbler, Common Yellowthroat, and Nashville Warbler all breed in this area. Flyovers are also abundant. Bald Eagle, Broad-winged Hawk, and the occasional Red-shouldered Hawk are seen riding the thermals created by the cliff. During the Peregrine Falcon nesting season exciting chases can occur between the Peregrine Falcon and these other raptors as they enter the aggressive bird’s territory.

Just across park loop road there is also a hiking trail called Murphy Lane. This easy walk through the woods cuts right through the mixed woods and parallels a wetland area. Hermit Thrush and Ovenbird are consistent in this area. American Bittern can also be heard at dawn and dusk calling from the wetland.

Notable Species: Black-billed Cuckoo, Scarlet Tanager, Olive-sided Flycatcher