Rising 1,530 feet above sea level, Cadillac Mountain is not only the tallest mountain on Mount Desert Island, but also the tallest mountain along the eastern coast of the United States. The mountain’s summit is the first spot to see the sunrise in the winter, and it’s one of the most popular destinations in Acadia National Park.

The 3.5-mile South Ridge Trail is one of several hiking routes to the top of Cadillac Mountain. You can also drive to the top, granted you make reservations for parking. At the top of the mountain is a 0.5-mile, easy summit loop to interpretive displays and breathtaking views.

The trail is a steady, gradual climb with open views much of the way. The first major viewpoint is just 1 mile into the hike and is called Eagle Crag.

Interesting plants to see along the way include Maine’s iconic wild blueberries and pitch pines. Out and back, the hike is just over 7 miles, making it one of the longest but gentlest ways to climb Cadillac.