Hike Gorge Path

Gorge Path

The Gorge Path follows a narrow, rocky gorge separating Dorr and Cadillac Mountains. The trail passes steep cliff walls and small cascades, climbs granite steps, and stays mostly in the shade. There are a few stream crossings, where flat rocks help aid footing. This trail is not advisable when wet, since rocky sections in forested areas take longer to dry out.

• Distance: 2.5 miles round trip (see description below for longer hikes)

• Terrain: Forested sections with steep, granite stairs and some scrambling

Hike Description

• The hike starts at the Gorge Path parking area, located off the Park Loop Road.
  • Note: For a longer hike (1.6 miles round trip), start at Kebo Brook Trailhead. Follow Kebo Brook Trail for .4 miles, then turn right onto Gorge Path. Continue .4 miles, pass under the bridge, and turn right up the stairs.
• Follow the stairs down along the side of the bridge. Continue straight at the sign.
• The trail goes through forested areas, follows and crosses a stream, and goes over one small boardwalk.
• At the junction with Hemlock Trail, continue straight.
• The trail gradually ascends with a few stream crossings, before becoming steep and rocky. There are a few long sections of granite steps throughout. Enjoy views of gorge walls, a small waterfall, and a memorial plaque.
• The trail levels out and reaches the intersection of the Cadillac-Dorr Connector Trail.
• For Dorr Mountain, turn left at the signs. After .2 miles, turn right onto Dorr West Face Trail. Continue for .1 miles to reach the summit.
• For Cadillac Mountain, turn right and continue on the Gorge Path. Continue for .4 miles and intersect the Cadillac Summit Loop.

Details

Duration

2-3 Hours

This hike is 2.5 miles roundtrip. Duration, or how long a hike takes, depends on your pace, how frequently you stop, and the terrain. For an average pace, this hike takes 2 to 3 hours.

If adding connector trails to Dorr Mountain (.6 miles round trip) or Cadillac Mountain (.8 miles round trip), factor in another 30 minutes.

Activity

Hiking

Pets Allowed

Yes with Restrictions

Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. It is not recommended for pets, since there are many steep sections with stairs.

Activity Fee

No

Although the activity is free, a park entrance pass is required for all areas of the park from May 1 through October 31.

Location

Gorge Path Trailhead

The Trailhead: Where to Begin

• Gorge Path Trailhead

Getting to the Trailhead

• By car: From Hulls Cove Visitor Center, follow Paradise Hill Rd south for 3 miles. Continue straight onto the Park Loop Road, then turn left following signs for Sand Beach. The Gorge Path parking area is located .9 miles down the road. Parking is limited.

• By bus: There is no public transporation to this trailhead. For a longer hike, take the Island Explorer (mid-June to October) to Cadillac Mountain North Ridge. Follow Kebo Brook Trail for .4 miles, then turn right onto Gorge Path. Continue for .4 miles and pass under bridge. This adds 1.6 miles roundtrip to the hike.

Reservations

No

Season

Spring, Summer, Fall

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Accessibility Information

Gorge Path is not accessible. There is uneven footing over rocks and steep sections of flat, granite stairs throughout. There are no accessible restrooms at the trailhead.

Top profile is Gorge Path to Cadillac Mountain; bottom profile is Gorge Path to Dorr Mountain

Trail Safety Tips

• Check trail elevation profile or a topographic map before hiking.
• Bring a map, water, snacks, compass, and extra layers for unpredictable changes in weather.
• Reduce the chance of picking up ticks by staying in the center of the trail, and not stepping on soils and away from brush.
• Always do a tick check after visiting the park.
• Closed-toe, good traction shoes recommended because most trail surfaces are very unlevel.