MOUNT DESERT ISLAND YMCA

​Welcome to the Bar Harbor Bank and Trust Half Marathon and Fall 5K!

This event is one of our largest fundraisers of the year. The money raised through your entry fees support the Mount Desert Island YMCA, ensuring that individuals and families have access to the care, services, and programs that can help them improve their lives through healthy living and community activities.

In 1913, John Rockefeller Jr. built a series of carriage roads so he could avoid cars in the Acadia National Park. Nine miles of the Half Marathon run on that still-existing system of hard-packed trails. The hilly course starts in the small, picturesque town of Bar Harbor, then climbs away from the harbor into the National Park. Dense forest engulfs runners as they cross several old granite bridges before looping back to town.

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This half marathon is fortunate to be one of only a couple of races of its kind held in Acadia National Park. Walkers are able to enjoy the beauty of Acadia at a slower pace and are encouraged to participate! Walkers are able to enjoy the beauty of Acadia at a slower pace and are encouraged to participate!

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Environmental Statement

The Mount Desert Island YMCA is committed to environmentally conscious and sustainable racing, as our course travels through Acadia National Park. A large amount of our waste is paper cups, in fact over 6000 cups per race! We are making steps over the next few years to move to "cupless" events.

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For 2026, we are encouraging participants to bring their own reusable cup, handheld water bottle, or hydration pack. We will still have paper cups at all 6 water stations this year, but with your help, we can start reducing our water and impact on our sensitive environment.

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Thank you for helping us protect and maintain the natural beauty of Acadia National Park!

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​MDI YMCA Members Only

Contact Jennifer at races@mdiymca.org for a coupon code to get $20 off registration!

Course Records

Men: Paul McGovern 1:07:06 (1991)

Women: Joan Benoit 1:17:06 (1997)

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