🚤 Mount Kineo Shuttle 2025: Your Scenic Ferry Ride to Hiking, Golf & History on Moosehead Lake

Writer: Gerry Caron | May 17, 2025 | 6 min read

🌲 Elevate Your Adventure: Why Mount Kineo is Maine’s Must-Visit Icon

Are you ready to witness one of the most staggering landmarks in New England? Mount Kineo State Park is a majestic 1,789-foot peninsula rising vertically from the depths of Moosehead Lake. Famous for its 800-foot sheer flint cliffs and 360-degree panoramic views, this hidden gem is accessible only by water.

The Mount Kineo Shuttle 2025 is your exclusive ticket to this island of adventure. Starting May 23, 2025, this seasonal ferry connects you to world-class hiking, a historic golf course, and the rhythmic beauty of Maine’s North Woods. Whether you’re scaling the fire tower or enjoying a quiet picnic at Pebble Beach, your Kineo story starts with a scenic 10-minute cruise across the glassy waters of Rockwood.

🗓️ 2025 Mount Kineo Shuttle Schedule

The ferry operates seasonally from May 23 through October 13, 2025. All departures are from the Rockwood Public Landing.

Note: The shuttle holds 10–30 passengers. In the event of high demand, the captain will return immediately to ferry those left behind.

💵 2025 Round-Trip Shuttle Fares

The shuttle service is Cash Only. There is no ticket booth; please pay the captain directly upon boarding.

• Ages 5 and older: $15.00 per person

• Children under 5: FREE

• Dogs: FREE (Dogs are welcome at the park!)

• Bicycles: $5.00 each

• Golf Clubs: No extra charge for clubs.

🥾 Conquer the Summit: Mount Kineo Hiking Trails

Kineo offers trails for every skill level. Most hikers choose the Indian-Bridle Loop, which takes approximately 2–2.5 hours.

• Indian Trail (0.9 miles, Moderate/Strenuous): The shortest and most dramatic route. It climbs steeply along open ledges, offering the most breathtaking vistas of the lake before reaching the summit.

• Bridle Trail (1.1 miles, Easy/Moderate): The original fire warden’s path. It offers a more gradual ascent through stands of maple and birch.

• Carriage Trail (2.2 miles, Easy): A flat, scenic stroll along the western shore. Perfect for families and those heading toward Pebble Beach.

• North Trail (1.9 miles, Moderate): A quieter route that winds through hardwood forests and rises up the southeastern cliffs.

The Fire Tower: At the summit, climb the restored observation tower for an unparalleled 360-degree view of the Moosehead Region, Big Moose Mountain, and the 100-Mile Wilderness.

⛳ Tee Off with History: Mt. Kineo Golf Course

Established in 1893, the Mt. Kineo Golf Course is one of the oldest in New England. Nestled at the base of the mountain’s cliffs, this 9-hole public course features a legendary 4th hole that requires a shot across the water.

• Green Fees (9/18 Holes): $40 / $65 for adults.

• Clubhouse: Serves snacks, subs, and drinks for hungry hikers and golfers.

🧭 Plan Your Visit

• 📍 Boarding Point: Rockwood Public Landing, Rockwood, ME 04478

• 📞 Contact Info: (207) 534-9012

• Pro Tip: Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking boots. The trails can be wet and slippery even in peak summer.

🏨 Your Premier Gateway: Moose River Lookout

Maximize your Maine adventure by staying at the premier sanctuary of the North Woods. Moose River Lookout in Rockwood offers an idyllic retreat along the serene Moose River, just minutes from the shuttle landing.

• Elite Access: We feature a private dock on the river—paddling to Mount Kineo from your backyard is a favorite guest experience.

• Trailhead HQ: Direct access to ITS66 for hiking, ATVing, and wildlife spotting.

• Adventure Haven: After a day on the mountain, relax on our large deck with panoramic river views.

Book Your Stay:

• Phone: 800-544-0300

• Email: [email protected]

• Website: Moose River Lookout