Discover Acadia National Park with GoTravelDaily
Waves crash against a rocky shore beneath a picturesque lighthouse, as seabirds soar and dive overhead. Ancient mountains rise above the rugged, indented coastline, blanketed by deep forests that open to reveal tranquil ponds and moose grazing in wildflower meadows. At higher elevations, the vegetation becomes less dense, exposing patches of ancient granite and panoramic views.
This magical meeting place of land and sea is Acadia National Park, a true jewel of Maine and one of the most scenic coastal locations along the entire eastern seaboard of the United States. Covering nearly 50,000 acres across four sections, each with its own distinct character, Acadia’s heart lies in Mount Desert Island. The island, shaped roughly like a lobster claw, connects to the mainland by a two-lane causeway south of Ellsworth. Many visitors primarily explore the eastern side of the island, where popular attractions are located, while the western side—known as the Quiet Side—offers equally breathtaking sights with significantly fewer crowds.
When to Visit Acadia National Park
For full access to Acadia’s attractions, plan your visit between May and mid-October. However, if you’re seeking quiet solitude, consider the off-season. Summer, particularly from June to August, is peak season, while September brings beautiful, comfortable weather paired with stunning fall foliage. The peak of autumn colors typically occurs in mid-October. If visiting during the summer, aim to start your days early to avoid crowds.
Acadia operates year-round; however, many roads and attractions are closed during the colder months, with snow often falling from November to April. The park’s 45 miles of carriage roads are open year-round, making them a favorite for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.
Time Needed to Explore Acadia National Park
To fully explore Acadia, allocate at least one full day. This timeframe allows you to drive the Park Loop Road, stop for leisurely walks, and ascend Cadillac Mountain for breathtaking views, ideally timed for sunrise or sunset. If you plan to delve into Mount Desert Island or pursue longer hikes or bike rides, you should consider extending your stay to two or more days.
If you’re an avid hiker or cyclist, a week in Acadia may be perfect for you, offering ample opportunities to explore scenic trails and picturesque coves by kayak.
Getting Around Acadia National Park
Situated in Downeast Maine, Acadia National Park is about three hours from Portland and roughly four-and-a-half to five hours from Boston by car. There are direct flights to Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, just ten miles from the park, as well as flights to Bangor International Airport, which is about an hour away.
Once in Acadia, you can navigate without a car using the free Island Explorer buses, which service various routes throughout the park’s Mount Desert Island area and the Schoodic Peninsula. Bicycles, including e-bikes, can be rented in Bar Harbor and Winter Harbor. Access to Isle au Haut is limited to passenger ferry rides, while Baker Island and the Islesford Historical Museum can be reached through guided boat tours.
Top Things to Do in Acadia National Park
Explore the Park Loop Road
The 27-mile Park Loop Road through Mount Desert Island is the heart of Acadia National Park, accessible by car, bike, or the Island Explorer bus. This scenic route begins at Hulls Cove Visitor Center and offers views of natural wonders such as the Wild Gardens of Acadia and the iconic Sand Beach and Thunder Hole along the south coast. Hikers will enjoy the trails around Jordan Pond and Eagle Lake, with rewards such as stunning vistas.
Catching Sunrises and Sunsets from Cadillac Mountain
Cadillac Mountain, at 1,530 feet, is Acadia’s highest point, providing visitors with panoramic views. Often heralded as the first place in the U.S. to witness the sunrise, it attracts many visitors year-round. Reservations are required for access during peak sunrise hours, so plan ahead! Alternatively, it is just as mesmerizing to experience sunset from the summit.
Walking the Historic Carriage Roads
Acadia boasts 57 miles of car-free carriage roads, originating from the vision of philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, Jr., who wished for peaceful exploration. These paths wind through the park, offering a serene way to experience the beauty of Acadia, suitable for hiking and biking, with rentals readily available in Bar Harbor.
Discover Acadia’s Quiet Side
The lesser-visited western slopes of Mount Desert Island, referred to as the Quiet Side, showcase the region’s natural beauty alongside recreational activities. Visit Northeast Harbor for breathtaking views or explore Echo Lake’s refreshing waters after tackling nearby hiking trails.
Explore the Less-Developed Schoodic Peninsula
A visit to the Schoodic Peninsula is a must for those seeking beauty without the crowds. This area presents a six-mile loop road offering scenic views and hiking trails. Enjoy the rocky coastline, perfectly framed by views of Mount Desert Island and various islands in Frenchman Bay.
My Favorite Experience in Acadia National Park
While Acadia’s landscapes are stunning, its skies captivate me just as much. Watching sunrises and sunsets, particularly from sea level at locations like Bass Harbor Lighthouse or Schoodic Point, brings peace to my soul. The park offers remarkable stargazing opportunities after dark, thanks to minimal light pollution. Lying under the night sky and admiring countless stars is an experience unlike any other.
Planning Your Budget for Acadia National Park
To enter, visitors aged 16 and older must purchase a park pass, which costs $35 per day for a private, non-commercial vehicle or $20 per person on foot. Both options grant access for seven days. If you plan to visit additional national parks, consider the America the Beautiful pass for broader access.
Acadia National Park features activities suitable for various budgets; however, reservations and planning become crucial during the peak season. Here are some estimated costs:
- Tent site at a campground: $30
- Passenger ferry from Bar Harbor to Winter Harbor: $20
- Afternoon tea and popovers: $13
- Maine lobster roll at local restaurants: $30–$40
- Full-day e-bike rental: $115
- Motel or hotel room for two in Bar Harbor: $100–$400 per night
- Self-catering vacation rental: $150–$450 per night
Accommodation Options Near Acadia National Park
There are several national park campgrounds available for tents and RVs, including sites at Blackwoods and Seawall on Mount Desert Island. For hotel options, Bar Harbor offers a variety ranging from luxurious waterfront stays to mid-range accommodations.
If you prefer a quieter setting, Northeast and Southwest Harbor have several welcoming options, including charming hotels and inviting vacation rentals scattered throughout the region.
Services Available in Acadia National Park
The Hulls Cove Visitor Center serves as an introduction to the park and a hub for transportation, including the Island Explorer bus system. While there is a restaurant at Jordan Pond House within the park, the many dining establishments in Bar Harbor offer fantastic options for meals after a day of exploring.
For an authentic taste of Maine’s seafood, be sure to visit places like Beal’s Lobster Pier or Thurston’s Lobster Pound for fresh local dishes.
