February 11, 2025
Acadia National Park In Color by Me in ME is licensed under CC BY 2.0.750

Acadia National Park In Color by Me in ME is licensed under CC BY 2.0.750

Do you want to know what to do in Acadia National Park? What attractions are there? What hiking trails are available? How can I enjoy the best wildlife viewing opportunities? This guide has all the information you need to make the most of your visit.

Acadia National Park – Things to Do, Attractions, and History in Bar Harbor, Maine

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Acadia National Park In Color by Me in ME is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
Acadia National Park In Color by Me in ME is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

What is Acadia National Park?

Acadia National Park is a 47,000-acre park situated on the coast of Maine, in the ancestral homeland of the Wabanaki Confederacy. Established in 1919, Acadia is the oldest National Park east of the Mississippi River. The park is known for its stunning views, rugged coastline, scenic drives, and extensive hiking and biking trails. Cadillac Mountain is the tallest peak in the park, at 1,529 feet, and is renowned as the first place in the United States to greet the sunrise.

Bar Harbor, Maine, is located near Acadia National Park, and is a popular destination for tourists. Visitors can enjoy a wide array of activities such as kayaking, sailing, fishing, whale watching, and hiking. There are also plenty of restaurants, galleries, and shopping opportunities. History buffs can visit the Abbe Museum to learn about the culture and history of the Wabanaki people, or the Bar Harbor Historical Society & Museum to learn about the history of the town. Nature lovers can explore the rocky coastline and tranquil lakes, ponds, and wetlands of Acadia National Park.

What to Do in Acadia National Park

Step 1: Choose an activity

What are the different activities available in Acadia National Park?

Some of the top highlights of Acadia National Park include exploring the park’s history, nature, and management practices; planning a trip with help from friends; enjoying family-friendly activities; and embarking on challenging solo hikes. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and much more.

Step 2: Drive or walk to watch the sunrise

To watch the sunrise in Acadia National Park, start by bundling up and hitting the road by 4:15am. Drive up the Cadillac Summit Road, which will take about 30 minutes. Once you arrive, you can park and walk to a viewing spot to watch the sunrise at 5:00am. This is one of the best things to do in Acadia National Park. From May 25 through October 22, vehicle reservations are required for Cadillac Summit Road between sunrise and sunset. Be sure to check traffic conditions and plan your trip without interruption.

For those looking to avoid the crowds, try hiking the trails in winter and enjoy the solitude and snow-kissed scenery. To stay close by, consider booking a room at Bar Harbor Manor.

If you have the time, explore the Carriage Roads, Jordan Pond and Park Loop Road for some stunning coastal scenery. Enjoy the views, visit the gift shop, kayak and canoe in the clear waters of the pond, dine at Jordan Pond House, or just relax and take in the beauty of the area.

Step 3: Enjoy dinner or popovers at the Jordan Pond House

The Jordan Pond House in Acadia National Park is known for its famous popovers that have been served since 1893. The restaurant, which is open from May through October, is the only dining choice within the park and offers lunch, afternoon tea and dinner. Along with the popovers, visitors can enjoy a variety of other dishes made with local ingredients. Visitors can also find a variety of dining options around Acadia, on Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula, such as the Argentine-style parrilla steak grill at Havana, panoramic harbor views at Reading Room at the Bar Harbor Inn, and a variety of lobster dishes at C-Ray Lobster, Rose Eden Lobster and Stewman’s Lobster Pound. For a unique experience, The Pickled Wrinkle serves up Maine’s delicacy of pickled sea snails, while The Winter Harbor Lobster Shack is the place to go for a lobster roll.

Atlantic Coast Near Thunder Hole Acadia National Park Maine by Ken Lund is licensed under CC BY SA 2.0.
Atlantic Coast Near Thunder Hole Acadia National Park Maine by Ken Lund is licensed under CC BY SA 2.0.

Step 4: Explore the carriage roads

The carriage roads of Acadia National Park are a popular destination for those looking for a peaceful getaway. These 45 miles of 16-foot-wide roads were originally built by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. and provide a great way to explore the scenic views of rolling forests, waterfalls, cliffs, bays, and the ocean.

The roads are closed to cars and are open to walkers, hikers, and bikers. The stone bridges and gate lodges of the old road network are nearly as majestic as the views along the way.

Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Jordan Pond, a 150-foot-deep glacial tarn surrounded by low hills, and take in the views of the pond from the area’s trails.

For those looking to take in more of the park, the 27-mile, one-way Park Loop Road and Schoodic National Scenic Byway offer views of the eastern half of Acadia on Mount Desert Island.

Visitors can also enjoy a narrated bus tour, horse-drawn carriage ride, bike tour, and boat tour to experience the park’s natural beauty.

Step 5: Hike, bike, snowshoe, or cross-country ski the trails

Acadia National Park offers a variety of trails to explore, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous endeavors. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly outing or an adventurous solo hike, the park has something for everyone.

Popular trails include the Ocean Path, which follows the stunning coastline; the Cadillac Mountain Loop, which takes hikers to the highest peak in the park; the Jordan Pond Path, a scenic lake loop; and the South Bubble Mountain trail, which ascends to the top of South Bubble Mountain.

For those looking for more winter-based activities, the park also offers opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, biking and ice fishing. Winter scenic drives and hiking are popular options, and volunteers sometimes even cut trails for skiing and snowshoeing. Snowmobiling is allowed on the 27-mile Park Loop Road system and many fire roads.

No matter what the season, Acadia National Park is sure to have something for everyone!

Step 6: Enjoy a day trip to Thunder Hole or other stops on the Park Loop Road

The Park Loop Road takes visitors around the east side of Mount Desert Island and offers stunning views of the park.

  1. Popular stops along the road include Jordan Pond, Cadillac Mountain, the gardens, museum, and nature center at Sieur de Monts, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliffs.
  2. Other stops along the way include Eagle Lake, Schooner Head Overlook, Great Meadow, Beaver Dam Pond, and the Monument Cove Trailhead. All of these stops can be found on the west side of Park Loop Road.
  3. On the east side, visitors can find the Bubble Rock Trailhead, Wonderland Trail, Canyon Mountain Trailhead, Sand Beach, and the Burnt Porcupine Trailhead.

Step 7: Visit one of Acadia’s artists-in-residence

Step 1: Research the Artist-in-Residence program at Acadia National Park. The program celebrates its 30th anniversary in 2023, and will have thirteen artists visiting the park.

Step 2: Check out the park’s photo gallery to get an idea of what to expect.

Step 3: Plan your itinerary. With a single day, you can drive the 27-mile Park Loop Road and make some of the popular stops along the east side of Mount Desert Island.

Longer stays are ideal for exploring more of the park’s network of hiking trails, guided kayaking tours of offshore waters and islands, and road trips to the Schoodic Peninsula and Isle au Haut.

Step 4: Consider taking a trolley tour with Oli’s Trolley, an Acadia Tours bus tour, or a boat cruise with Downeast Windjammer Cruise Lines.

Step 5: Learn more about the park’s history and to get involved. Volunteer opportunities, wildlife sighting reports, and more are available on the park’s website.

Duck Brook Bridge Acadia National Park Maine by @CarShowShooter is licensed under CC BY NC SA 2.0.
Duck Brook Bridge Acadia National Park Maine by @CarShowShooter is licensed under CC BY NC SA 2.0.

Step 8: Take advantage of guidebooks and maps

Guidebooks and maps can be incredibly helpful for visitors in Acadia National Park, as they provide both cause and effect and spatial information. Guidebooks can provide visitors with important historical and cultural information about the park, along with nature and management practices.

Maps provide visitors with a visual of what the landscape looks like and what towns and villages are close by. This can help visitors plan their trip and make sure they don’t miss anything of interest.

Travelers can get a better understanding of the roads, trails, carriage roads, and bridges within the park, which can help them plan their journey accordingly. Maps also provide an easy way for visitors to share their favorite places with family and friends.

Top Attractions in Acadia National Park

1. Ocean Drive

Ocean Drive in Acadia National Park offers a variety of attractions, including breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Mount Desert Island, the rocky coastline of Sand Beach, and a drive along Park Loop Road.

Along Ocean Drive, visitors can explore Schoodic Loop Road’s 8.3 miles of one-way bike paths, take in the scenery at Cadillac Mountain, witness the sunrise and experience the dramatic coastline at Sand Beach, take a stroll along the Ocean Path, and drive along Park Loop Road for access to many of the park’s popular attractions.

Park Loop Road also connects to Otter Creek Road (State Route 3) and Eagle Lake Road exits Bar Harbor, providing another route to the western part of Acadia.

Ocean Drive provides access to Otter Creek, a glacial tarn surrounded by low hills, and Jordan Pond House restaurant and gift shop. Visitors can explore the 45 miles of carriage roads and their stone bridges, gate lodges, forests, waterfalls, cliffs, bays and ocean views.

2. Jordan Pond House

The Jordan Pond House is a historic restaurant in Acadia National Park, located in Bar Harbor, Maine. The restaurant is renowned for its signature popovers – light and fluffy rolls baked in muffin tins and served warm with butter or jam. It is a great spot for unplugging, taking in the views and sipping something bubbly. Its stunning location in the heart of the park makes it a popular destination for locals and travelers alike, who come to enjoy the stunning lake and mountain views.

The Jordan Pond House is also an ideal starting point for exploring the rest of the park, as the Island Explorer bus stops there every 20 minutes during the season. It is one of the oldest restaurants in the park and is a great way to experience the charm and beauty of Acadia National Park.

3. Acadia National Park

What are the top attractions in Acadia National Park? From scenic drives and historic carriage roads to primitive camping and challenging hiking trails, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in this stunning Maine park. The top attractions include:

  1. Cadillac Mountain: the highest mountain peak on the Atlantic coastline and a beautiful spot to watch the sunrise
  2. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: a popular sunset spot for photographers
  3. Park Loop Road: a 27-mile scenic drive for views of the coastline
  4. Jordan Pond House: a charming spot for afternoon tea
  5. Carriage roads: 45 miles of trails for biking and horseback riding
  6. Hiking trails: 158 miles of trails, including some of the most challenging trails in New England
  7. Primitive camping: plenty of campsites around the park
  8. Bird watching: visit during the spring and fall to view puffins, warblers, peregrine falcon, and other birds of prey
  9. Mammal species: view black bears, moose, beavers, and coyotes
  10. Photography: capture beautiful and diverse photos of the landscape

4. Park Loop Road

The Park Loop Road is a 27-mile stretch of road that circles the east side of Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island in Maine, US. It offers vehicle access to many of the park’s most popular attractions, such as Otter Creek Road, Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Schoodic Loop Road.

With its scenic views of rolling forests, waterfalls, cliffs, bays, and the ocean, the Park Loop Road is the quickest way to explore the breathtaking beauty of Acadia National Park.

The 35 mph speed limit for the loop also provides enough time to take in the sights and make detours to the park’s many attractions, such as the summit of Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, and the Beehive Loop Trail.

The Park Loop Road allows visitors to experience the majestic beauty of the park without having to use a motor vehicle on the exceptionally beautiful carriage roads.

This unique road is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Acadia National Park, and its incredible views will surely leave you in awe.

John D Rockerfellers house within Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island Maine. by denisbin is licensed under CC BY ND 2.0.
John D Rockerfellers house within Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island Maine. by denisbin is licensed under CC BY ND 2.0.

5. Thunder Hole

Thunder Hole is a natural inlet located along the coast of Mount Desert Island in Acadia National Park, Maine. It is popular for its booming sound as waves crash against the coastal stones, creating an interesting and unique sound.

The most impressive sight at Thunder Hole is when the waves reach up to forty feet high, during its best viewing time, which is between low and high tide. It is an attraction for tourists and visitors alike for its majestic view and the power that the waves possess.

Visitors can also enjoy the surrounding area, with spectacular views of the ocean, mountains, and wildlife. The roaring sound of thunder from Thunder Hole is an unforgettable experience and is one of the main draws of Acadia National Park.

6. Sand Beach

Sand Beach has a long history and rich culture in Acadia National Park, Maine. Located in the heart of Mount Desert Island, the beach has been a popular spot for people to visit for centuries.

The earliest recorded settlers of Mount Desert Island were the Wabanaki people, who lived in the area around Sand Beach for thousands of years prior to colonization by Europeans. They used the beach for fishing, harvesting shellfish, and for spiritual ceremonies.

In the early 1600s, French explorers began visiting the area now known as Sand Beach. They referred to the beach as “Sable” or “Sableaux” due to the abundant sand. They used it as a fishing camp before permanently settling in the area in the 1700s.

In 1790, President George Washington established the area as a national park, making it one of the oldest parks in the United States. Since then, Sand Beach has been a popular place to visit for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

In the early 1900s, Sand Beach became the site of the “Acadia National Park” and was quickly developed into a tourist destination. The beach was used for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. In the 1930s, I took steps to protect the beach from overuse by limiting the number of visitors allowed on the beach.

Today, Sand Beach is a beautiful and peaceful spot in Acadia National Park. It is a popular place for visitors to enjoy swimming, relaxing in the sun, and taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is also home to a variety of wildlife, including harbor seals, seabirds, and a variety of plants. The area is also a popular spot for hikers, with trails like the Ocean Path leading to incredible views.

In recent years, Sand Beach has become an important part of Acadia National Park’s rich cultural history. Its pristine beauty and unique environment make it one of the most popular attractions in the park. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful beach day or an adventurous hike, Sand Beach has something for everyone.

7. Cadillac Mountain

Cadillac Mountain, located in Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, Maine, is one of the most iconic attractions in the region. Not only is it the tallest mountain along the eastern coastline of the United States, but it is also the first place in the country that receives the sunrise from October to March. The mountain is named after the French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac and stands 1,530 feet (470 m) tall.

Visitors can explore the summit of Cadillac Mountain by driving up Cadillac Summit Road or take a leisurely stroll. The Park Loop Road also traverses the eastern side of the mountain, leading to several scenic viewpoints, including Tarn (a pond), Champlain Mountain, Beehive, Sand Beach, Gorham Mountain, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cove. From the top of the mountain, visitors can take in breathtaking views of the ocean, island lakes, and the surrounding pine forests.

Cadillac Mountain is one of the most popular attractions in Acadia National Park and is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. The incredible views, amazing wildlife, and unique experience make it a truly special place.

8. Mount Katahdin

Mount Katahdin is the highest mountain in the state of Maine and is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. It is located in Baxter State Park, which is adjacent to Acadia National Park. Mount Katahdin offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The mountain itself is a challenging climb, and it can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours to reach the summit. Once at the top, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the park, including Cadillac Mountain and the Penobscot River.

Mount Katahdin is also a sacred site for the Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, and Micmac tribes. It is believed to be the birthplace of the Wabanaki Confederacy, or the People of the Dawnland. The mountain is a source of spiritual power and healing for the tribes, and they hold ceremonies and rituals at the summit.

The mountain is a great way for visitors to Acadia National Park to experience the history and culture of the area. Its stunning scenery, combined with its cultural and spiritual significance, makes it an alluring destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

Shannon half way up the Beehive Acadia National Park Maine by Sebastian Anthony is licensed under CC BY ND 2.0.
Shannon half way up the Beehive Acadia National Park Maine by Sebastian Anthony is licensed under CC BY ND 2.0.

How to Get the Most out Of Your Visit to Acadia National Park

Step 1: Explore the many activities and attractions available at Acadia

Acadia National Park offers a variety of activities and attractions that appeal to all types of visitors. In summer, visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, bicycling, kayaking, camping, swimming, and exploring the park’s historic carriage roads.

In winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular, as well as snowmobiling on the Park Loop Road system and many fire roads. Ice fishing is another popular activity in the region.

Other attractions include Jordan Pond House for afternoon tea, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Cliffs, and a stunning sunrise atop Cadillac Mountain. There are also plenty of museums and shops in Bar Harbor and around the island to explore.

Step 2: Spend the day exploring Acadia’s many lands and trails

Acadia National Park is home to a diverse range of lands and trails. Park Loop Road provides scenic driving on a 27 mile loop, and visitors can also explore a network of hiking trails and historic carriage roads.

Trails range from easy-access paths like the Jordan Pond Nature Trail to more challenging routes like the Precipice Trail, which rewards hikers with spectacular views from the highest cliffs on the Atlantic coast.

There are also opportunities for horseback riding, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. The park covers over 50,000 acres, with diverse landscapes including rugged shorelines, dense forests, and mountain peaks.

Nature lovers can also visit the gardens, museum, and nature center at Sieur de Monts to experience Acadia’s diverse wildlife.

Step 3: Plan some activities for the evening

What activities can I do for the evening in Acadia National Park?

  1. Camp under the stars at one of the many campgrounds and campsites in and around the park.
  2. Take a guided wildlife viewing tour or other park event.
  3. Go on a challenging solo hike.
  4. Explore the park’s history, nature, and management practices with the help of the app.
  5. Visit one of the many highlights of Acadia National Park, such as the Beehive, Bubble Rock, and Sand Beach.
  6. Go on a boat tour and explore the waterways of Acadia.
  7. Take a stroll around the park and enjoy the breathtaking views.
  8. Go kayaking or canoeing in the park’s many lakes and ponds.
  9. Go stargazing, where you can admire the wonders of the night sky.
  10. Take a leisurely walk around the park’s many trails and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Step 4: Enjoy one of Acadia’s famous foods or drinks

Visiting Acadia National Park is a great opportunity to sample some of Maine’s famous dishes and drinks. The Jordan Pond House, located within the park, is famous for its popovers, light and fluffy rolls served with butter or jam.

Other restaurant options on Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula include the Argentine-style parrilla steak grill at Havana, the seafood options at C-Ray Lobster, Rose Eden Lobster, and Stewman’s Lobster Pound, and the classic Bar Harbor Inn’s Reading Room. For beer-lovers, Atlantic Brewing Company and Bar Harbor Beer Works offer a selection of Maine craft beers.

And for a unique taste of Maine, The Pickled Wrinkle serves up pickled sea snails aka whelks.

Finally, The Winter Harbor Lobster Shack is the place to go for a tasty lobster roll.

Sunset at Acadia National Park by Tony Fischer Photography is licensed under CC BY 2.0.
Sunset at Acadia National Park by Tony Fischer Photography is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Step 5: Stay connected with Acadia National Park Guidebook

The Acadia National Park Guidebook is an invaluable resource for visitors to the park, offering a wealth of information about the park’s attractions, activities, and events.

The guidebook provides detailed descriptions of the park and its various features, along with maps and pictures to help orient visitors. It also includes practical advice for visiting the park, such as navigating the various trails and carriage roads, planning an itinerary, recognizing wildlife, and planning for food and lodging in the park.

The guidebook also provides visitors with insight into the history of the park, as well as advice on how to best appreciate its natural beauty. By providing such detailed and comprehensive information, the Acadia National Park Guidebook ensures that visitors to the park will get the most out of their visit.

Step 6: Capture the beauty of Acadia with photography or video

Visitors can capture the beauty of Acadia National Park with photography or video by following a few simple steps.

  1. Plan your shots in advance. Consider the time of year and the type of landscape you wish to capture. Plan the best time to be at certain spots for sunrise and sunset, where the most popular spots are, and the best spots for bird photography.
  2. Once you have your locations chosen, consider the variables that affect your shot. Pay attention to the direction of the sun and the shadows it casts, the type of lens you are using, and the shutter speed.
  3. If you plan to capture a sunset or sunrise, prepare for the conditions of Acadia. Temperatures often drop during this time of day and the wind can be strong, so prepare with layers and protection for your camera.
  4. Once you are out taking your shots, remember that safety should always be your first priority. Always make sure you know the trails, stay aware of your surroundings, and bring enough supplies for the duration of your trip.
  5. When you are done taking your pictures, make sure to review them and ensure that you have captured the beauty of Acadia National Park!

Step 7: Leave a legacy at one of the park’s visitor centers

Step 1: Visit one of the six visitor centers located in or near the park – Hulls Cove, Sieur de Monts Nature Center, Thompson Island Information Center, Village Green in Bar Harbor, Islesford History Museum, and the Rockefeller Welcome Center.

Step 2: Attend events such as guided wildlife viewing and tours hosted by the National Park Service.

Step 3: Support programs and events organized by the Friends of Acadia which introduce the wonders of the park to kids, teens, and young adults.

Step 4: Buy a park pass at one of the visitor centers.

Step 5: Look into volunteer opportunities, such as helping with maintenance and trail restoration.

Step 6: Donate to the park, either directly to the National Park Service or to the Friends of Acadia.

Step 7: Help spread the word about the park and its offerings, either in person or through social media.

Welcome to Acadia National Park by J. Stephen Conn is licensed under CC BY NC 2.0.
Welcome to Acadia National Park by J. Stephen Conn is licensed under CC BY NC 2.0.

FAQ

What can I do at Acadia National Park?

At Acadia National Park, there are a wide range of activities to enjoy! From sedate, leisurely experiences like strolling around Park Loop Road and afternoon tea at the Jordan Pond House, to more intense adventures such as camping and hiking challenging trails, there is something for everyone.

If you are looking for an active experience, consider biking, hiking, or paddling in the park. There are over 40 miles of carriage roads perfect for biking, and a variety of hiking trails in the area. Paddling is also popular in the park, with favorite spots such as Somes Sound, Jordan Pond, Eagle Lake, and Long Pond.

Jordan Pond is also a lovely spot to explore, with stunning lake and mountain views. The Jordan Pond House has been serving popovers and tea since the 1890s and is a must-visit. Be sure to check the trail and closure status before you go, and don’t forget the Leave No Trace Principles to help protect the natural environment.

There is so much to explore in and near Acadia National Park, so get out there and have an unforgettable adventure!

What are some of the hiking trails in Acadia National Park?

  1. Acadia National Park is home to a wealth of hiking trails, ranging from easy and family-friendly to more challenging, iron-rung trails.
  2. Easy trails include the Ocean Path (Sand Beach to Otter Point), Cadillac Mountain Summit Loop, Jordan Pond Loop, and South Bubble Mountain and Bubble Rock.
  3. Moderate and fairly strenuous trails include the Beehive Loop Trail, Precipice Trail, Penobscot Mountain, Gorham Mountain, and Beech Cliff Trail.
  4. For a relaxed walk, the Ship Harbor Nature Trail is a 1.3-mile loop, and the Bar Island Trail consists of a half-mile walk across a gravel bar exposed at low tide.
  5. Other trails include the Great Head Trail, Bubbles Trail, and Jordan Pond Path.
  6. For an extra challenge, there is the Jordan Cliffs Loop, a 5-mile, 3-to-4-hour hike with steep slopes and a strenuous climb up Sargent Mountain.

All 45 miles of Acadia’s paved carriage roads are wheelchair accessible, and the Jesup Trail and nature trails in the Jordan Pond and Ship Harbor areas are also accessible.

Are there campsites available in Acadia National Park?

Yes, there are campsites available in Acadia National Park. Inside the park, there are three main campgrounds – Blackwoods Campground, Seawall Campground, and Schoodic Woods Campground, which are open from May to October.

  1. Blackwoods Campground is open year-round with limited capacity.
  2. There is also Duck Harbor Campground on Isle au Haut.
  3. Additionally, there are several good private campgrounds on Mount Desert Island just outside of the park limits.

What attractions are there in Acadia National Park?

What attractions are there in Acadia National Park? From a sedate afternoon tea at the Jordan Pond House to a 4-hour trolley tour on Oli’s Trolley, there are plenty of activities and attractions to explore in Acadia National Park.

Take a scenic drive on Park Loop Road or a 2.5-hour bus tour with Acadia Tours and get stunning views of Cadillac Mountain, Sieur de Monts Spring, Thunder Hole, and Jordan Pond.

Hop across the bridge to Trenton Village for an unforgettable experience at the Great Maine Lumberjack Show, or take a 2.5-3 hour cruise of Frenchman Bay with Downeast Windjammer Cruise Lines.

For an aerial view, take a 15 minute to two hour flight with Scenic Flights of Acadia.

Explore the park in winter with activities like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling on the 27-mile Park Loop Road system and fire roads. There are also plenty of options for lodging, ranging from campgrounds to resorts, vacation rentals to hotels and motels, and outdoor adventure resorts.

With endless activities, attractions, and amenities, Acadia National Park is a must-visit destination.

Can I rent a kayak in Acadia National Park?

Yes, you can rent a kayak in Acadia National Park! The Hulls Cove Visitor Center, which is open mid-April through October, has kayaks available for rent. You can also find rental services outside of the park, such as Acadia Tours, which offers a 2.5-3 hour cruise of Frenchman Bay with beautiful views of Acadia National Park from the sea. Alternatively, you can also rent a kayak from Downeast Windjammer Cruise lines.

Is the Park Loop Road worth visiting?

Yes, the Park Loop Road is worth visiting. This 27-mile scenic drive takes visitors through the heart of Acadia National Park, connecting lakes, forests, mountains, and campgrounds with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Mount Desert Island in the distance.

Along the way, you can take in the park’s highlights, including Jordan Pond, Cadillac Mountain, and the gardens, museum, and nature center at Sieur de Monts. Additionally, Park Loop Road provides access to popular coastal attractions such as Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliffs. Plus, if you have limited time in Acadia, this is the best way to get the most out of your park experience.

Is there a lighthouse in Acadia National Park?

Yes, there is a lighthouse in Acadia National Park. The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is located on Mount Desert Island and is one of the most iconic destinations and best things to do in the park. Visitors can take a path to the right of the lighthouse to get a view of the harbor and islands in the distance.

Other lighthouses nearby include the Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse and Baker Island Lighthouse.

Are there any whale watching opportunities in Acadia National Park?

Yes, there are whale watching opportunities in Acadia National Park. The Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company offers daily whale-spotting tours with a high success rate throughout the season (but best between July and August). Guests can bring their own snacks and adult beverages for a memorable experience.

What is the best way to get around the park?

The best way to get around Acadia National Park is by taking the Island Explorer bus service. This free service makes traveling through the park simple, as it stops at the Jordan Pond House every 20 minutes during the season.

You can also drive to many of the park’s most popular attractions using Park Loop Road, which circles the east side of Acadia on Mount Desert Island and connects to Otter Creek Road (State Route 3) near Bar Harbor.

For those looking for a more fresh-air approach, bike or boat tours are available with ranger-guided tours, or you can explore the park’s 45-mile carriage roads on a bike or horse-drawn carriage.

What type of wildlife can I expect to see in Acadia National Park?

Acadia National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including mammals, birds, and fish.

  1. Mammals found in the park include black bears, moose, beavers, and coyotes.
  2. Birders flock to the park from all over the world in hopes of viewing puffins, warblers, peregrine falcons, and other birds of prey.
  3. Fish species found in the park’s waters include brook trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass.

Final Thoughts

Acadia National Park is a stunning natural gem located on the coast of Maine. It offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities, from hiking and camping to kayaking and fishing. With its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich history, Acadia is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking adventure and connection with nature. Whether you are a seasoned park-goer or a first-time visitor, Acadia National Park is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Happy Trails,

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Acadia National Park
of Maine Acadia National Park is an American national park located along the mid-section of the Maine coast, southwest of Bar Harbor. The park preserves

Maine
Acadia National Park is the only national park in New England. Areas under the protection and management of the National Park Service include: Acadia

Cadillac Mountain
Cadillac Mountain is located on Mount Desert Island, within Acadia National Park, in the U.S. state of Maine. With an elevation of 1,530 feet (470 meters)

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