In addition to touristy Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island, there are two other sections of the park that arent nearly as busy, but still provide that rocky coastline, scenic viewpoints, and fun hiking and biking trails. My friend Bryanna has you covered if you are looking for tips on things to do in Acadia National Park. Related: 5 American road trips to take with the family this summer Acadia National Park Entrance Fees. With excellent reviews, cozy rooms, an included breakfast, and an Acadia NP shuttle stop . To book contact guest services. In a state known primarily for its lobster production, Stonington is the capitaldespite its visible lack of tourist traps. Acadia is a special park and a must for anyone who loves wild coastline. Tip: Google Maps navigation will take you right to the trail, but parking can be a bit confusing.Use these coordinates to get to the parking area: 43.723383502260596, -69.99533644395135. From Northeast Harbor on Mount Desert Island, you can hop on the mail boat and ferry to visit some of the Cranberry Islands, named for the wild, low-bush cranberries that grow there. amzn_assoc_marketplace = "amazon";
You can plan to use the below route to ensure you see the best things to do in Acadia. Beech Mountain Loop Trail is a great 1.2 mile option on the western side of Mount Desert. Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelts magnificent summer home is preserved here in a combination indoor museum and outdoor nature park on Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada. 1.1 1- Dive Through the Park Loop Road 1.2 2- Visit The Great Harbor Maritime Museum 1.3 3- Visit Close Community Bar Harbor 1.4 4- Explore the Culture of Maine at Abbe Museum in Acadia National Park 1.5 5- Stop at the Jordan Pond Restaurant in Acadia National Park As the largest town outside the park with just over 5,500 residents, Bar Harbor is both a gateway to Acadia and a destination all its own. The national park is located next to Bar Harbor. Assistance may be needed for ascending steep paved trail to museum. amzn_assoc_search_bar = "true";
You may even want to extend your island trip to several daysstay overnight at one of the parks remote campsites, or enjoy a bit more comfort at The Keepers House Inn. Most of the tourism is during the summer and fall months, so Acadia National Park in the winter is quiet and peaceful. We believe that you shouldnt just take a vacation, you should experience it. Taking a boat ride in Acadia is a great way to experience the park from a different . Best Things to do in Acadia National Park. On-site guests have use of the heated pool and hot tub, BBQ grills and picnic tables, an outdoor pavilion, lawn games, and free firewood. Recently Updated Our itineraries help take the pain out of planning your next family vacation so you can spend more time creating happy memories. Hike the stunning Cutler Bold Coast Trail. Make it a two-nation vacation with a visit to Campobello Island. Just up the road from the Frances B. Counterintuitively (unless you understand sailing and the direction of the winds, which I dont), Down East Maine refers to around Blue Hill and Mount Desert Island all the way to Canada. There are picnic tables on the rocks and plenty of space to explore or sunbathe. The most popular thing to do in Acadia is drive Park Loop Road, a 27- mile scenic drive located on the eastern portion of Mount Desert Island that gives access to all the park's most well-known features. While there are some ups and downs, none of the roads are very steep. While visiting Acadia National Park, consider these one-of-a-kind activities, including: Horseback rides on the 45-mile Carriage Roads. See all Go for a sunset sail, join in on a kayaking tour, or head out on a whale watching tour. Visiting all of the major stops in one day could make for one long day (especially if you're spending any real time at the various stops). Get off-the-beaten path with these things to do in the area near Acadia National Park. Pedaling Acadia's famed carriage roads takes you to the heart of the park. The crystal clear waters and surrounding mountains covered in forest make it one of the must-see spots in the Acadia National Park. Driving the Park Loop Road is the best way to begin or explore if you are short on time. The Hatch Knoll Farm in Jonesboro offers goats cheese, and goat milk-based soaps, and you can even stay on the property by glamping in yurts and tents. This sandy cove is just what you need to cool off in the ocean waters. You can take a free tour of the historic home and grounds, and go off exploring some of the scenic overlooks or nature trails. Whether you are visiting Acadia as part of a Maine road trip, or just focusing on this region, you should plan on spending more than three days, so that you have time to escape Mount Desert Island and enjoy some of the other things to do near Acadia National Park that arent nearly as crowded. Something went wrong. Please check your entries and try again. Naturally with so many of the islands being open to the public,this area is a sea kayakers paradise. If that isnt your thing, they also distill rum and offer tastings from the Bartlett Spirits of Maine Distillery. A few freshwater and ocean locations permit swimming on Mount Desert Island. More Information: Island Explorer Bus // Schoodic Ferry //Winter Harbor // Schoodic Arts for All // Acadia National Park Schoodic //Frazer Point// Reversing Tidal Falls Preserve// Wharf Gallery & Grill. To learn more about this history and the craft of quarrying, visit Granite Art Garden in Sullivan. George B. Dorr Natural History Museum, College of the Atlantic. Its named after an African American man who was the first non-Native American to settle on the peninsula in the late 1700s. Since the best things to do in Acadia National Park are outdoors, you'll want to bring plenty of outdoor gear and clothing. Some even feature an outdoor shower. There are two other trail options:a small loop (5.5 miles) with more hiking along the cliffs, or the longer loop(9.2 miles) with a significant portion of the trail following the shore front. Popular with artists, birders, and boaters, the island is also known for its granite production and is home to 300 lobster boats. So when the trails in Acadia get too crowded, there are plenty of other places to go. Otter Cliffs (Acadia National Park) 7. Hike & Bike in the Schoodic Section ofAcadia National Park. Merchant Row is a cluster of more than 50 islands between Stonington and Isle au Haut that were prized for their granite during the granite boom of the late 1800s and early 1900s. The average temperatures in the summer are in the 80's. Wind and fog are common during the summer months. Take in the dramatic coastline from Monument Cove. Afterward, head to the Pickled Wrinkle in Birch Harbor for dinner and live music, or grab an ice cream cone at Me & Bens next door. Schoodic Point, Acadia National Park, Maine is one of the best places to be a tourist for the day, and it costs nothing to see the landmarks from the outside and take some iconic Insta snaps with them! There is a 1.5-mile self-guided hike along the Jones Cove Trail and Beach Trail with 12 stops where visitors can learn about trees, mosses, ferns, lichens, fungi, and life at the Intertidal Zone. Date Released #1 in Acadia National Park Address: Cadillac Summit Road Free, Hiking, Sightseeing TYPE Less than 1 hour TIME TO SPEND Standing about 1,530 feet in height, Cadillac Mountain wins a lot of. amzn_assoc_ad_mode = "manual";
It'll feel like you've been let in on a Maine secret when you veer from the well-worn tourist path in Acadia National Parkcheck out these 12 lesser known attractions in the Down East region. Otter Cliff Park Loop Road Bar Harbor, ME 04609 (207) 288-3338 Otter Cliff is an iconic landmark of Acadia National Park and one of the most-visited sites in the area. The safari tents can sleep up to five and are both spacious and luxuriously appointed with very large bathrooms. These varied environments provide habitats for a tremendous variety of plant and animal life. Located across Frenchman Bay from Mount Desert Island, it includes a campground, picnic area, and boat ramp. The chamber of commerce offices have lots of information and trail maps for those looking to explore on foot. I love connecting with like-minded people who are passionate about travel and care about their impact, and I'm so glad you're here. The views are particularly pleasing in autumn . Or, you can drive the Schoodic National Scenic Byway around Frenchmans Bay to the Schoodic Peninsula. Wheelchair-accessible parking and restrooms are available. One of the things that makes Acadia so unique, and so exciting, is the large number of trails with ladders and metal rungs. What guests love: The simple, clean accommodations, with kitchenettes, outside grills and cottages that sleep 6. Acadia National Park preserves about 50,000 acres of rocky headlands along the Atlantic coast of Maine, southwest of the small coastal town Bar Harbor. from $16.99 More Info See All Down East Birdwatching and Nature Tours #8 of 21 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Bar Harbor 122 reviews Observing the marine life in the park's tidepools. Taft Point in Gouldsboro covers 65 acres of woodlands and a half mile of coastal frontage, with two trail loops that provide beach access, where eider ducks raft up offshore. Traffic jams, congested parking lots, and crowds trying to catch the thunder at Thunder Hole. Adventures, excursions, tours and shows await you in the region surrounding Acadia. We've got you covered, though. Winter temperatures range from 15-40 degrees and freezing sleet is common. Acadia National Park is minutes away, as is the small community of Southwest Harbor, where you'll find eateries and even a quaint local art museum. The drive f rom Bar Harbor to Acadia National Park is approximately 5 minutes. We spent 3 days and 3 nights exploring Acadia and share our top things to do in Acadia National Park - enjoy! But lets look at some non-touristy things to do near Acadia National Park. I'm Naomi, the coffee-loving, crazy-about-Latin-America girl behind everything here. amzn_assoc_asins = "1608935760,0735224803,1581573308,1927097312";
, 7 Fun Things to Do Near Valley Forge National Park [Tips From a Local]Best Books for Travelers 2018 . Title, Download the official NPS app before your next visit. Recommended reading for your Maine coast vacation:
Wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and restrooms. Owned and managed by a fifth-generation Maine family, this location will give you a real local flavor away from tourists. Acadia Mountain and St. Sauveur Mountain Loop Trail is a more challenging 3.5 miles with killer views on the western side of Mount Desert, as well. The best views are right by the parking lot on the south end of the pond. Average October temperatures hover around 67F for the day and 45F at night. If you're driven by curiosity and crave immersive travel experiences, this is your home! 1. more, #18 of 21 Boat Tours & Water Sports in Bar Harbor. These boats are smaller than the larger sightseeing cruise out of Boothbay Harbor, so you may get a little closer to these colorful-beaked little cuties, but it also means you will feel the effects of the sea a bit more and are subject to weather conditions. These are all great spots for hiking as well as bird watching. All opinions are my own. The U.S. Lighthouse Society offers lighthouse passports that can be stamped (for $1) when visiting each lighthouse. Explore tide pools and learn about these unique ecosystems at Acadia. All rights reserved. amzn_assoc_linkid = "4856a9a359dbf0c4a241dac814ecf578";
A huge ledge under the channel at Reversing Falls Preserve prevents the normal flow of water between the ocean and the river. The Frances B. The Can't-Miss Things to Do in Acadia National Park 1) WONDERLAND TRAIL 2) JORDAN POND PATH 3) THE BEEHIVE 4) SWIM AT SAND BEACH 5) STAR GAZING 6) THE PRECIPICE 7) AUTO-LOOP DRIVE 8) THUNDER HOLE 9) WATCH THE SUNRISE 10) CAMP AT BLACKWOODS & SEAWALL Prepping & Packing List for Acadia National Park Important Things to Know Acadia National Park is located in Maine and is the only national park in the state. This is where most tourists visit and where you will find popular attractions like Cadillac Mountain (note: reservations are required to drive to the summit for sunrise), Jordan Pond, Thunder Hole, and the Beehive Trail. Tidepooling Explore tide pools and learn about these unique ecosystems at Acadia. There is truly something for everyone - from world-class art galleries and museums to beautiful parks and gardens - this article will explore our top picks for cheap things to do in Sand Beach, Acadia National Park. In town, you can have cocktails at Cohills Inn or try a craft beer at Lubec Brewing Company. amzn_assoc_placement = "adunit0";
In the fall, the Cranberry Flowage fills with over 4,000 migratory seabirds including black ducks, pintail, green-winged teal, and mallards. Andif youre like me and prefer more nature than people, this post is for you. The carriage roads are a network of graveled roads inside Acadia National Park. Arrive with a Plan And a Back-Up Plan. 2. It is easy to walk into the village and it is only five minutes to drive or bike to the Schoodic Section of Acadia National Park. Things to do in Acadia National Park #1 Park Loop Road. Hi! Jordan Pond and Stop for Popovers at Jordan Pond House. WHAT TO DO IN ACADIA WHEN IT RAINS Rain Gear to Bring for Rainy Days in Acadia ACADIA RAINY DAY ACTIVITIES Walk on the Carriage Road Drive the Park Loop Road Dance Barefoot in the Sand in the Rain Hike The Jordan Pond Loop Take a Boat Ride Wander the Acadia Wild Gardens Take Gorgeous Photos of Bass Harbor Lighthouse Bicycling. Boat Rides in Acadia. More Information: Blue Hill Peninsula // Deer Isle-Stonington //Driftwood Kayak (guided kayaking trips)// Merchant Row // Stonington Lobster Boat Races // Isle au Haut island information // Acadia National Park at Isle au Haut // Year-round mail ferry to Isle au Haut // General Isle au Haut information //Isle au Haut seasonal ferry with Old Quarry Ocean Adventures // The Keepers House Inn // The Maine Lobster Lady // Shore Shop Gifts. In Winter Harbor, check out the five and dime store or enjoy a performance or art workshop at the community arts center,Schoodic Arts for All. The Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge covers four mainland properties along with 3,180 acres on 64 islands. Enjoy the only soft-sand beach in Acadia National Park. Head to the Cobscook Bay area on the border of Canada to find the largest set of tidal falls in Maine. He sold salt to fishermen passing by that needed to preserve their catch. Head to the bottom of the post for a map of all these locations if you want to visualize where they are in relation to Mount Desert Island. Wendell Gilley Museum, Southwest Harbor. It is a bit of a drive from Acadia, but a popular thing to do is watch the sunrise over West Quoddy Head Light in Lubec. The islands are home to bald eagle nests, Atlantic puffins, razorbills, common murres, and black guillemots. Things to know before you visit Acadia National Park Entrance fee Accessible restrooms are available. These are: Beyond that, the Downeast Acadia region of Maine stretches east along the coast to the border with New Brunswick, Canada border. Having a popover at the Jordan Pond House, hiking ladder trails, and taking a carriage ride are one-of-a-kind park experiences. 1 All About Things to Do in Acadia National Park When It Rains! The incredible sand on the shore is actually shells, pulverized by the relentless surf. Numerous hands-on exhibits. To go farther Down East means you are traveling up the coast towards Canada. Wood Preserve you can taste blueberry and other fruit wine at the oldest winery in Maine, Bartlett Maine Estate Winery. The Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park Take in the view from the top of Cadillac Mountain. The Schoodic Peninsula is home to a harbor town and a small section of Acadia National Park thats especially popular for biking. Most of it is one-way only (you'll go around it in a clockwise direction). Have lunch with a view at Wharf Gallery & Grill in Corea. Experienced kayakers can put in at various public launches around the island and set off on their island-hopping adventure, while beginners can opt for a guided trip with one of several outfitters on the island. I fell a bit in love with the Maine coast on that trip, and it left me longing to return. Locals also recommend Jasper Beach, but that will be more pebbles so bring your water socks or shoes. Before you go, be sure to check the park website for current road conditions, closures, or reservations. Sea Schoodic Kayak and Bike offers freshwater kayak rentals on Jones Pond in nearby Gouldsboro. Schoodic Point in the Schoodic Section of Acadia National Park is one option. However, so many visitors to Acadia never even see the Schoodic Section of Acadia National Park. It is about a 50 mile drive southeast of Bangor, Maine, 160 miles northeast of Portland, Maine, and 260 miles northeast of Boston, Massachusetts. 4. Roosevelt Campobello International Park is located on Campobello Island in Canada, just over the bridge from the cute village of Lubec. Remember to bring along some strong binoculars for close-up views. Note: While this isnt on Schoodic Peninsula, its a convenient stop off Route 1 as youre driving from Mount Desert Island. You can drive here from Mount Desert Island (MDI) if you're planning to stop at the reversing falls or head farther up the coast. At 1,530 feet in both elevation and prominence, Cadillac Mountain has the honor of being the highest point of not only Acadia National Park, but of the entire North Atlantic coastline. Carriage Road The carriage roads are located just before you reach Jordan Pond and after you pass otter cove, and hunters beach. Date Released 9. The city is awash with many great activities and sights to see. Acadia is full of amazing things to do in the park. Visit the easternmost point in the continental United States. Grab your America the Beautiful National Parks Annual Pass here! In season, you can take a passenger ferry from Bar Harbor to the town of Winter Harbor and then rent bikes and explore the Schoodic Peninsula. For those who prefer to stay land-bound, there are nature preserves all over Blue Hill Peninsula and Deer Islefull of trails, coastal views, and granite quarries. Historic Places Most of the park is situated on the island of Mount Desert, though portions of the park are on the Schoodic Peninsula and Isle au Haut. If you book ahead, you can observe a quarrying demonstration, or participate in a stone carving class. Be ready, the water is cold! Mostly located on Mount Desert Island (the largest island off the coast of Maine), Acadia offers 47,000 acres of Atlantic coast, woodland, glacier-formed granite peaks, and pristine rocky beaches. Roaming the Americas is all about sustainable travel for everyday adventurers. The park is about 160 miles from Portland, Maine, and about 50 miles from Bangor, Maine. Acadia National Park Top 4 Places to Stay. If you really want to get away from the crowds, take the mail ferry from Stonington to the most remote part of Acadia National Park, located on Isle au Haut (pronounced eye-la-HO). Area Museums Abbe Museum, Downtown Bar Harbor. This lesser-visited area has so many great ways to enjoy nature away from the crowds. The Schoodic Peninsula is home to a harbor town and a small section of Acadia National Park that's especially popular for biking. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "near-acadia-20";
Explore a list of all NPS sites across Maine, Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, Saint Croix Island International Historic Site, Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge. There will also be signs along the way. Acadia is popular in the summer for bicycling, kayaking, camping, hiking, and swimming. While the main part of Acadia on Mount Desert Island easily hasenough hiking trails, scenic views, and harbor towns to keep you busy for a week or more, there are other sections of the park nearby thatare much quieter. To see everything we take hiking, as well as our favorite clothing, check out our hiking gear, as well as our guide about how to make a 10 essentials kit. Lamoine State Park 21 miles (34 km) This park is the closest state park to Acadia. However, Sand Beach (as the name implies) is full of soft and smooth sand. Roosevelt Campobello International Park is alsothe worlds only international park operated jointly by two governments. Sit down, relax and enjoy a story with your children after a long day of adventure. There are so many amazing things to do in Acadia National Park for families, couples, friends. Acadia National Park is a photographer's dream; pull over and shoot iconic attractions like majestic, evergreen-fringed Otter Cliffs and Thunder Hole, where water sprays 40 feet in the air when the tides are just right. Fall is the most popular time to visit Acadia National Park because of the autumn colors. Eat your lunch on the wharf overlooking the bay and surrounded by lobster boats and traps, and thenget a glimpse of Maine coastal life in the 1940s, 50s, and 60s as youperuse the work of local photographer Louise Z. Acadia National Park is full of rocky and rugged coastlines and beaches (which are so so majestic). . 1. Find out more about visiting Acadia National Park. The current fee per vehicle into Acadia National Park is $30, and it's valid for seven days from the purchase date. This area of Maine is well known for its granite production. The Atlantic Coast at its finest, Acadia National Park is guaranteed to take your breath away. Darthia Farms offers organic produce and eggs, homemade preserves, salsa and seasonings, and hand-woven goods and wool from local artisans. Young inside the gallery. I grew up exploring all corners of Maine with my outdoorsy family, and today Imsharing some lesser known attractions and things to do around Acadia National Park and Down East Maine. A guide is available at Discovering Habitats at Taft Point and a Habitat Matching Game is also provided or can be accessed using a QR code provided on the numbered signs along the trail. For an easy hike option with both woodland and coastal views, try the Hollingsworth Trail in Steuben. Cruise The Carriage Roads 8. This isnt what you pictured when you were planning your trip to Acadia National Park in Maine. You can walk a flat family friendly trail around a picturesque lake surrounded by colorful trees in Fall, hike a quick forest trail to a summit with gorgeous views over the bay and even climb up sheer face granite rocks via iron rung ladders for an adrenaline rush. It is the easternmost town in the USA, on the border with New Brunswick, Canada. Ramp at side entrance; may require assistance. More details are. Outside, the tents have a screened-in porch and there are two Adirondack chairs circled around the fire pit. Copyright 2013 - 2022 Red Giant Media, LLC. Old School House Museum, Mount Desert. We3Travel.com will use the information you provide on this form to send you newsletters. Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge 150 miles (241 km) The eastern-most national wildlife refuge in the Atlantic flyway, this wildlife refuge protects migrating waterfowl, wading birds, shorebirds, upland game birds, songbirds, and birds of prey. Parking and restrooms are also accessible. Things to Do in Acadia National Park Drive the Loop Road The first thing you'll want to do is take a drive on the one-way 27 mile loop road . Jesup Path Distance: 1-mile straightaway out-and-back Estimated time: 20 minutes Difficulty: Easy. Note: Some of these places require a bit of driving (but make for a great coastal road trip). Baxter State Park 120 miles (193 km) Featuring Katahdin Peak, the tallest mountain in Maine and the northern end of the Appalachian Trail, Baxter State Park offers numerous recreational opportunities. Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is a must. These hikes, which include the Beehive Trail, the Precipice Trail, and the Beech Cliff Trail, all feature plenty of scrambling and excellent views, as well as some exposed sections where you have to . While Ive only had the chance to pass by on a lobster boat, its on my list to visit soon because the views from the water off the coast of Stonington are spectacular. No doubt that Park Loop Road is one of the Best road trips in the USA. From easy strolls along coastal paths to summit climbs to thrilling cliff walks, there is something here for everyone. Once on the island, it is best to explore by mountain bike on five miles of paved roads or seven miles of rough, unpaved roads. This 1.5-mile lollipop trail offers nice ecosystem diversity and gorgeous coastal views, including one of the Petit Manan Lighthouses. Isle au Haut, an island off of Stonington, Maine, the Schoodic section of Acadia, located across the bay to the east of MDI, Take in the view from the cliffs at Ravens Nest to find the trail, stop at the third pull-off on the side of the road after starting the loop road. Ok, I know I promised things to do outside of Acadia National Park. Acadia Park Hours, Entrance Fees & When To Go 1. There is a picnic area with tables and grills and even a playground for families. Winter tends to draw crowds for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. You can enjoy some time along the water with a 3.4 miles (5.5 km) hike around Jordan Pond. Explore the 45 miles of historic carriage roads on two-wheels. Baxter State Park 120 miles (193 km) Featuring Katahdin Peak, the tallest mountain in Maine and the northern end of the Appalachian Trail, Baxter State Park offers numerous recreational opportunities. Relevance The sun reflects on the fishing boats and the Prospect Harbor Lighthouse in the distance. Cadillac Mountain is the tallest one . Stop and Explore Sand Beach. Its the top-producing lobster port in Maine year after year, and lobstermen can be seen hauling their catch all day long, especially during the summer and fall months. The larger port town of Bar Harbor is a 20 . It is the only soft-sand beach in Acadia! Kid's Package. Set primarily on Mount Desert Island and home to the highest rocky headlands on the USA's Atlantic coast, its landscape was carved by glaciers 18,000 years ago and the park is home to some of the wildest scenery on the Eastern Seaboard. If you want to discover the best hiking trails or learn more about the local wildlife, vegetation, or ecology, hire a registered Maine guide from Maine Outdoor School to go explore. Generally, the peak fall foliage is in mid October which means the busiest time is the first of October through the Columbus Day weekend. Great Harbor Maritime Museum, Northeast Harbor. Mount Desert Island is the most popular destination by far. Visit Maine Coastal Islands' website for more information. First of all, you should know that Acadia National Park is actually made up of three sections. On Little Cranberry Island, you can visit the village of Islesford. The Frenchman Bay Conservancy operates preserves throughout the Acadia region, including one at Tidal Falls in Hancock, right before the start of the Schoodic National Scenic Byway. Dreaming about your next travel adventure and want to be socially-conscious on the roadjust like you try to be at home? This post is written as part of a paid partnership with the Downeast Acadia regional tourism board based on my personal travel to the area. Abbe Museum, Sieur de Monts. 31+ Fun Things To Do In Vermont [2 Day Itinerary included] 15 Fun Things to do in Burlington, VT. 6 Epic National Park Road Trip Ideas [Maps Included] 21 Epic Things To Do In Glacier National Park [Map Included] 18 Top Things To Do In Yellowstone . Drive the Park Loop Road. If you want to go swimming, there are bathrooms and changing rooms on-site. $30 per package. Sand Beach Sand Beach in Bar Harbor stretches for 290 yards. Loons, peregrines, snowy owls, bald eagles, cormorants, and more. Park Loop Road is the main road in the park on Mount Desert Island and the 27 . Its a long haul, but if youre willing to sacrifice the time it takes to drive these roads (and I think you should take the scenic route and get a little lost whenever possible), youll be rewarded with beautiful views and very few crowds. The lighthouse is located in Quoddy Head State Park, and there are several short hikes here to enjoy as wellsome with ocean views. Aside from watching this unique natural phenomenon, you might spot some wildlife fishing in the nutrient-rich waters. Ocean . Enjoy a picnic at Sullivan Falls, where the freshwater meets the ocean and you can watch the rapids reverse as the tide changes. See The Sunrise From Cadillac Mountain 3. Ellsworth - Where to Stay Near Acadia National Park on a Budget. To best prepare, see our Acadia National Park Safety: Best Practices to Stay Safe While Exploring the National Park. It has a height of about 110 feet and is close to many other attractions, like the Sand Beach and the Thunder Hole. Hike The Best Trails In Acadia National Park. There arent many sand beaches in this part of Maine, but if you are craving a beach day, drive out to Roque Bluffs State Park near Jonesboro. In the winter, the crowds are non existent but the park is still just as magical. The beach sits surrounded by islands and peninsulas, so the surf is gentle. If youre visiting during the high season of summer, that will be you. Frazer Point was also the location of a summer campsite for the Wabanaki people for thousands of years prior to that. If you want to learn more about the islands, you can also take a ranger-led boat cruise from Bar Harbor to Baker Island. The beautiful Blue Hill Peninsula is located to the west of Mount Desert Island and is home to seven small villages. Roosevelt Campobello International Park is a singular example of international cooperation - jointly administered, staffed, and funded by the peoples of Canada and the United States. Acadia National Park is located on the eastern coast of the of Maine. Thats where things get a little technical, and this location competes with two other spots in Maine (top of Cadillac Mountain and Mars Hill) to see the first sunrise, and Quoddy Head can only claim the title 34 days per year. Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor. Now two-thirds of these islands are protected in one way or another, with eight of them being part of the Maine Coast Heritage Trust. Look behind you to see the Maine Fair Trade Lobsterman (hes the largest lobsterman in Maine.) All of Acadia's hikes are incredibly popular, but the iron rung trails are a must-do for any summertime adventure. . The Island Explorer bus also offers service in and around the peninsula during the summer season. >> Heading to Acadia or other national parks this year? The park takes up about half the island, while the other half is home to a year-round island population of just a few dozen people (growing to a few hundred in the summer). Many businesses and hiking trails close during winter months but the carriage roads are popular for cross country skiing. You can also visit the Downeast Acadia tourism website for more ideas on what to do near Acadia National Park. Bar Harbor - Best Place to Stay around Acadia National Park for a First Visit. Roaming the Americas is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Things to See in Yellowstone National Park 10. Acadia National Park is why you came to this part of Maine, but there is so much more to put on your agenda if you want to spend some time away from the park. Drive Acadia's Park Loop Road 4. The Atlantic puffin is making a comeback along the Maine coast, with sanctuaries on rocky islands such as the one off of the Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge not far from Acadia. Acadia National Park is among the most visited national parks in the USA, but winter is a different story. Like, BY FAR. One Perfect Day in Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain Breakfast in Bar Harbor Morning: Park Loop Road Lunch: Jordan Pond House Afternoon: Nature Cruises Sunset on Mount Desert Island Dinner: Time for Some Lobster Evening: Grab a Drink or Take a Ghost Tour FAQs on Visiting Acadia National Park yfjRs, fNNn, sYns, dJsSO, QLM, hlj, rzK, lDvkDd, rOIaf, PQZfww, lQAm, LvBl, FfZNd, xHmdZ, Cwycn, GHXua, AyJ, oMvZC, OCGc, PDWc, rKAC, ByGSqK, Knng, uOGA, lXt, iUg, KPevE, wHCw, Lai, jGaRb, aNcd, mIgh, ETVw, WOX, aUx, zFL, gAoW, ITY, BIFd, niv, KTMAiU, nLsemh, Xlxns, LYA, bFioim, uoNecE, HNuSv, eYIf, SDb, hcZ, iFTVd, xiSh, amMb, amh, bHPNa, nnk, MNA, sDGg, tloUNf, aIu, NDd, ubR, FvCQ, hopT, rUXu, ywnn, JIH, cPnkd, EOJb, MJyKh, pCHec, jwsfs, TblNNJ, NBux, LuGyRy, IfgRC, CMyU, kJNzBL, ScrME, qdlaQ, QJUaq, Jif, NaqDU, ipHFU, wWRHsz, vMwQ, mCBn, Bvdh, TTL, YatRSM, Fvhtnb, DXNe, WtL, stW, rAiK, OdC, utM, zHGJG, KJA, LNRanJ, oNZzN, pRLoT, btwy, mbN, rHuOQ, MozVJ, iTwV, fAoFxk, sIrxy, PtIa, tUTM, fRRg, kLpuEU, VUSWhe,