Acadia National Park, a jewel nestled on the rugged coast of Maine, consistently ranks among the most beloved national parks in the United States. Its allure stems from a captivating blend of raw, natural beauty, the quaint charm of surrounding coastal towns, and a plethora of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Situated primarily on Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park awakens the senses, whether you’re braving a refreshing dip in the Atlantic’s invigorating waters during the summer months or witnessing the spectacular tapestry of colors that define the fall foliage season. Knowledgeable park rangers are stationed throughout the park, readily available to answer questions, offer insights, and point out hidden gems that might otherwise go unnoticed. For families traveling with children, a visit to the Hulls Cove Visitor Center is highly recommended to learn about Acadia’s engaging and free Junior Ranger Program. By participating in a series of interactive activities, including an interview with a park ranger, children can earn an official Acadia Junior Ranger patch, a cherished memento of their exploration of this stunning corner of the country.
1. Visit the Bass Harbor Head Light Station
The Bass Harbor Head Light Station stands as an iconic beacon, arguably one of the most photographed lighthouses not only in Maine but throughout the entire United States. Perched on the southwestern edge of Mount Desert Island, within Acadia National Park near the town of Tremont, this historic lighthouse is easily accessible by car. Note that the Island Explorer shuttle, unfortunately, does not service this particular area of the island. The Bass Harbor Head Light Station attracts a significant number of visitors, approximately 180,000 each year, making it the fifth most frequented spot within the park. Parking availability is limited to a small designated lot; street parking is strictly prohibited along Route 102A and in the vicinity of the entrance. While visitors can admire the lighthouse’s exterior and capture its picturesque setting, tours of the interior are not available to the public. The dramatic cliffs, the crashing waves, and the stoic presence of the lighthouse create an unforgettable scene, particularly during sunrise and sunset.
2. Drive the Scenic Park Loop Road
Acadia National Park draws over two million visitors annually, a testament to its enduring popularity. A key factor in its appeal is the exceptional accessibility of its most breathtaking features. The 27-mile Park Loop Road offers a convenient way to experience many of the park’s highlights without venturing far from your vehicle. Although the distance may seem relatively short, dedicating a full day to explore the various attractions along this winding roadway is highly recommended. The Park Loop Road presents a photographer’s paradise, offering countless opportunities to capture iconic vistas. Be sure to stop and photograph majestic landmarks such as the evergreen-framed Otter Cliffs, dramatic promontories that plunge dramatically into the Atlantic Ocean, and Thunder Hole, a natural rock formation where the surging ocean creates a thunderous roar and sends plumes of water soaring up to 40 feet in the air when the tides are just right.
The Park Loop Road is typically open from April 15th through December 1st each year, contingent upon favorable weather conditions. Upon entering the park, be sure to obtain a map at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center or download an official Acadia map from the National Park Service website. For cruise ship passengers and other travelers without access to a car, the free Island Explorer shuttle bus provides a convenient alternative. This shuttle departs from the Hulls Cove Visitor Center every half hour from late June through mid-October, making stops at key attractions along the Park Loop Road.
3. Get Your Feet Wet at Sand Beach
Sand Beach is an absolute must-see destination within Acadia National Park, a unique and stunning stretch of shoreline composed of finely crushed seashells. Arriving early in the morning during the summer months is highly advisable to secure a parking space, as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly. Despite the warm temperatures that prevail in July and August, the Atlantic Ocean’s waters remain surprisingly cold in this northern region.
While bodysurfing in water that rarely exceeds 55 degrees Fahrenheit might not be the most appealing option for everyone, simply wading into the water to feel the refreshing chill on your feet is an essential experience. Acadia’s distinctive character lies in the striking contrast between the land and the sea, and standing at this intersection, feeling the cool water tingling your toes, creates a lasting memory. The soft, shell-laden sand, the rugged cliffs that frame the beach, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean create a breathtaking panorama.
4. Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
John D. Rockefeller, Jr. bestowed a remarkable gift upon the public when he donated 10,000 acres on Mount Desert Island to the National Park Service, including 57 miles of meticulously crafted carriage roads that he personally developed and deeply cherished.
Embarking on a horse-drawn carriage ride from Wildwood Stables is a quintessential Acadia National Park experience. Guests can relax in a wagon pulled by sturdy Belgian draft horses or Percherons, embarking on a leisurely tour of these meticulously engineered broken-stone roads, which took over 25 years to construct. The carriage road network represents an extraordinary feat of engineering. As the horses clip-clop along cliff-hugging curves, visitors can admire the impressive stone walls, marvel at the 17 stone bridges constructed by Rockefeller’s crews, and soak in the breathtaking views. The gentle pace of the carriage allows for a truly immersive experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of Acadia and the visionary foresight of those who worked to preserve these lands.
Carriages of Acadia offers narrated sightseeing tours lasting one or two hours, as well as private carriage charters, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore Acadia’s forested interior. Carriage rides are available from late May through late October, and reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot.
5. Dine at Jordan Pond House
Dining alongside the serene Jordan Pond, with a captivating view of the two gently rounded mountains known as "The Bubbles," has been a cherished tradition for over a century. A visit to Acadia National Park is simply incomplete without experiencing a meal in this idyllic setting. Jordan Pond House, the restaurant nestled within the park, upholds these time-honored traditions, including the delightful afternoon tea service accompanied by their signature popovers served with jam. Making reservations well in advance is strongly recommended to minimize wait times for lunch, tea, or dinner. The classic New England fare, combined with the stunning natural backdrop, creates an unforgettable dining experience.
6. Enjoy the View From the Top of Cadillac Mountain
The summit of Cadillac Mountain reigns as the highest point along the East Coast of the United States. For ambitious hikers, the 2.2-mile North Ridge Trail offers a challenging but rewarding ascent to the top, reaching an elevation of approximately 1,530 feet above sea level. Fortunately, for visitors who prefer a less strenuous option or have limited time, a seven-mile road leading to the summit has provided vehicular access to the panoramic 360-degree views from this seaside peak since 1931.
Instead of expending your energy on a hike, dedicate your time to fully appreciating the surrounding landscape, including the distinctive pink granite slopes, the soaring birds overhead, the hardy pitch pines, and the rare sub-alpine vegetation. Cadillac Mountain holds the distinction of being one of the first three locations in the United States to witness the dawn’s first light, making it a particularly popular spot for sunrise viewing. Even for those who aren’t typically early risers, experiencing daybreak from the summit of Cadillac Mountain is an experience that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
7. Discover the Beauty of Acadia National Park in Winter
Even when blanketed in snow, portions of Acadia National Park remain open to visitors during the winter months, offering a unique and enchanting perspective on this stunning landscape. While the majority of the Park Loop Road is closed during this season, Ocean Drive and Jordan Pond Road typically remain accessible. Winter transforms the park into a wonderland of snow-covered trees, frozen landscapes, and glistening ice formations. Public roads along the park boundaries that are regularly cleared provide access to various sections of Acadia. Within the park, visitors can engage in a variety of winter activities, including hiking (with appropriate winter gear), cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and even winter camping for those equipped for the conditions. The stark beauty of Acadia in winter offers a serene and unforgettable experience.
8. See Acadia National Park by Boat
While exploring Acadia National Park, you’ll undoubtedly admire the islands and bays from the shoreline. However, you can also gain a different perspective by venturing out onto the water on ranger-guided cruises.
A five-hour cruise to Baker Island, which includes 1.5 hours spent on the island itself, provides an opportunity to explore historic homesteads and the island’s lighthouse while learning about its fascinating geology. These cruises depart from Harbor Place in Bar Harbor. Alternatively, you can cruise around Frenchman Bay aboard a four-masted schooner, keeping an eye out for local wildlife and delving into the area’s history on a two-hour cruise departing from the Bar Harbor Inn Pier. The Islesford Historic and Scenic Cruise offers a sailing experience on Somes Sound, including a visit to the Islesford Historical Museum on Little Cranberry Island. This cruise departs from the Municipal Pier in Northeast Harbor. These boat tours provide a unique and immersive way to experience the beauty and history of Acadia’s coastal environment.
