Acadia National Park

couple viewing sunset from cadillac mountain

We Mainers refer to the park as ‘Acadia’ since the name rolls so easily off the tongue. Plus, we know how renowned it is, just like referring to Yosemite or Yellowstone.

Acadia National Park has a long and storied history that dates back thousands of years to when the ancestors of today’s Wabanaki Native American tribe resided in the area.

The land, with mountains descending to the Atlantic, was dedicated as a national monument in the early twentieth century, then becoming the first national park east of the Mississippi in 1919.

The name Acadia National Park was adopted in 1929, with “acadia” coming from the French, meaning place of plenty. That even applies to visitors as a reported four million visited in 2021!

Acadia is a four-season park with settings and features suitable for both easy-going and full-on rugged adventures. There’s so much to enjoy and focus on that you’re likely to return for more.

Speaking of focus, your trip to Acadia begins now as you read about what to do and where to stay while visiting this magnificent setting.

Your trip will be especially pleasurable because you’ve planned ahead. Yup, that means well ahead of time, even during the months when you think it won’t be crowded.

Plus, you want to be sure you have the right gear and goodies. A whole lot of that is covered here to limit the surprises you wish you’d known ahead of time.

On top of that, you know how helpful it is to have an insider’s view of someplace new to you. That’s especially so with a jewel like Acadia! Hope you’re ready to begin your Acadia Adventure right now.

Acadia National Park: Maine’s Coastal Treasure

waves crashing on the rocky coast of acadia national park in maine Maine’s rugged coast is storied yet has secret coves amidst its stretches of beach, many islands, bays, and broad river outlets. It encompasses just under 3500 miles, longer than that of California.

As you head north and east, following that coastline away from Boston, Portland, or other points, the towns become smaller, some making you feel that you’ve passed into a bygone era. Others are surprisingly upscale, sometimes in an understated way. At one point or another, you’ll come to Down East Maine.

Yup, it’s as much a state of mind as it is a destination. Just when you can see that this is true, you come to it. That being Acadia National Park. One like no other! One that beckons more visitors every year. What follows is why people come and how they get here. Plus much of what you need and want to know. And what we want you to know. After all, Maine hospitality begins right here…

All Points Lead to Acadia

tour bus outside acadia national park in Maine You can reach the Mount Desert Island area, home to Acadia National Park by land, air, or sea. Part of your planning is devoted to a rental vehicle if you’re arriving by plane or boat. Your best bet for renting a car nearby is to plan ahead by conducting an online search.

You’re sure to find that traveling to Acadia is well worth the trip, regardless of where you live.

If you’re planning a road trip, you’ll find that Acadia National Park is about 100 miles from Augusta, 170 miles from Portland, and 280 from Boston.

Keep in mind that you can take the scenic route to get there, adding to the joy of being Down East! Consider these additional ways to reach Acadia:

  • You can sail your own craft from either Portland or Boston as well by looking into mooring in Bar Harbor with the Harbormaster.
  • Our Canadian neighbors may arrive in similar manner or via the daily high-speed ferry service between Bar Harbor and Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.
  • Be sure to check out out Acadia’s Island Explorer Shuttle if you plan to do all or a bit of getting around without a vehicle. It’s fare-free and runs from late June until October 1. The buses have bike racks, adding to your adventure and ability to get around.

Park Entry & Reservations

snow on acadia national park sign in winter Acadia is open year round with a variety of Fees & Passes available, so your first step is visiting the National Park Service’s site to decide what option is best for you. Purchasing ahead of time online will streamline your entry.

Here are a few things to look for on that site:

  • The park’s Operating Hours & Seasons link lists points of interest with open and close dates.
  • Visiting in Winter means extra planning while letting you explore the open parts of the park with fewer crowds.
  • Cadillac Mountain affords magnificent views of the Cranberry and Porcupine Islands, Bar Harbor, and Schoodic Peninsula. Vehicle reservations are required from late May through late October. The link gives you the info need to get your ticket to ride.

Limited Cell and WIFI

Acadia is a good place to unplug. Might as well as there’s limited access anyway. That means planning ahead when it comes to things like reservations to drive up Cadillac Mountain. There, now you have that ‘be prepared’ point. There’ll be more later on.

Parking

Be prepared to walk some extra distance to spots you want to see, especially in the peak summer months. This almost goes without saying, just as it does at many of our country’s splendid National Parks. Truth be told, it’s this way at Acadia well into the fall!

That said, there are tips for Avoiding Crowds at Peak Season. Also, take note that there are places indicated to park at roadside on one-way roads.

Acadia’s Carriage Roads

fall colors along a carriage road in acadia national park in Maine The forty-five miles of Carriage Roads are a unique and visionary gift that is now maintained cooperatively by the Friends of Acadia with the National Park Service. Along with cycling, running, walking, and carriage or horseback riding, these sculptural byways are open during the winter for Nordic skiing and snow shoeing.

Hiking and Climbing

hiker enjoying the view in acadia It’s easy to plan ahead for the spots you’ll visit. You can hike, walk, climb, run, and cycle various paths, trails, and roadways. The hiking by route is a good place to get started.

You may want to include some hiking poles along with your best gear for the park’s more strenuous and often varied terrain. Here are some of our favorites:

  • One of your first hikes in Acadia is possible before you even get to the main entrance! Bar Island Trail is accessible during low tide by following the ½-mile stretch to the island from Bridge Street. Whatever you do, pay attention to the tide charts or you could spend a number of hours marooned on the island!
  • The Gorge Path is a sinuous, beautifully conceived and constructed stone pathway that runs up into and down from the narrow cleft between Cadillac and Dorr Mountains. It winds its way along and across the mountain stream that cascades down both sides from the top of the notch. It’s a work of art that blends into the surrounding natural features yet allows ready hiking and running access to the wild landscape. The character of the vegetation and tress differs vastly between the Bar Harbor side of the notch and the ocean side because of the different microclimates on either side.
  • Sand Beach to Otter Point offers you various levels of hiking with ocean and cliff views. This page describes each so you can pick one that’s a good match for your ability and stamina. Remember to bring water and watch out for it underfoot, creating slippery rocks.
  • Jordan Pond Path is wonderful because you can use it year round. The path has uneven spots yet offers you the chance to reverse direction when you want. This area is a photographer’s dream spot, so take the time to make some images.

Biking and Riding

bikes on the trail in acadia national park Bicycles are allowed in the park, as are motorcycles, and snowmobiles in the winter. Each is allowed in most or some parts, with others having limitations. ATVs are not allowed anywhere in the park, nor is the use of drones.

The Rules and Regulations section on the NPS fills you in on these and other important points to know before you go. Acadia Horses is a unique way to see the park while honoring its heritage and historical features. This service is open from May to October and includes an option for bringing your own horse to ride and rent a stall.

Accessibility

Many spots in Acadia are Wheelchair Accessible and for those with mobility challenges. That link offers tips, such as using the Island Explorer buses that are free, have wheelchair access, and helpful for avoiding long lines. The service runs from late June to early October with more details on their site.

Check out the accessible spots ahead of time to make the most of your time. For instance, Sand Beach access is confined to stairs whereas the popular Thunder Hole has an accessible viewing platform with a marvelous overlook of wave plumes when the tide is right!

Pet Friendly Acadia

Well, you already know that you can ride your horse in the park. Of course, there are plenty of dogs who love to visit with their human family members.

The park has numerous Pet-friendly Spots as long as your dog is on a 6-foot leash. The NPS site lets you know dog owner expectations and the spots where you can walk and hike together. Some spots, like Sand Beach, are restricted during the summer, while others are not. These are all clearly listed.

Acadia Swimming Spots

aerial view of sand beach in acadia national park One of the thrilling aspects of visiting Acadia is being able to go for a swim. Jeepers, even if it’s a bit chilly, you’ll get to tell the tale of taking a dip at Sand Beach. Of course, the water at Echo Lake Beach and Lake Wood are likely to be a tad warmer than the ocean.

Painters’ and Photographers’ Paradise

artist painting from the cliff at acadia national park in Maine Acadia is full of marvelous scenes and vistas to paint and photograph. They include:

  • Jordan Pond that features the memorable Bubbles and adds another hike to do.
  • Otter Point, as noted above in the Hiking and Climbing section, provides amazing opportunities for making art.
  • Cadillac Mountain is a destination for early-risers who want to watch the sun come up over the Atlantic. Doing so is well worth the extra planning!
  • Wild Gardens of Acadia is a quiet spot made to order for those seeking a quiet umbrella of trees amidst wild plants. This spot is wheelchair-accessible and offers seating and restrooms. It’s another spot of cooperative care between the NPS and Friends of Acadia.

This video highlights some additional things to do at Acadia:

Plan-Ahead Tips

These are a few little this-and-that tips to make your stay as pleasant as possible.

Fly Dope, Mosquito Nets, & Pest Control Matters

Ah yes, pristine, picturesque landscapes can mean dealing with various varmints, from ticks and skeeters to black flies and spiders.

  • Up here we buy ‘fly dope’ for black flies and mosquitoes, and other repellents for ticks.
  • Here’s a big ole article from the UMaine Extension to fill you in on what’s available to use.
  • We suggest at least a daily tick check for you and your pet, along with looking into tick removal tools. In fact, it’s a good idea to do your tick checks right after you’ve been on a hike or ambling around your campsite or lovely lawn where you’re staying.
  • Here are other removal tips from the US Centers for Disease Control.

Health Care Help

It helps to know where to head in the event of illness or accident. Here’s what’s available right handy by. Needless to say, the professionals here are accustomed to caring for people from around the world:

If the help you need is for your furry family member, Acadia Veterinary Hospital can be called for Emergency Pet Care. The page lists contact info for the pet hospital that’s about an hour away in Brewer.

FAQs | Carry In | Carry Out

The park’s Frequently Asked Questions page is your go-to for last minute questions.

In the Carry-In, Carry-Out Department

woman hiker admiring view at jordan pond in acadia national park Here are a few ripts about carrying things into and out of the park:

  • It’s wise to take the water you need for the day with you. Word has it that there are water fountains at: Sand Beach parking area, Jordan Pond House, Sieur de Monts Spring, Cadillac Mountain Summit, and Echo Lake. Most picnic areas have water fountains.
  • Much the same goes for food—best to have with you what will sustain you through an active day.
  • Have the clothing and gear you’ll need for the weather, as it can change quickly at times.
  • Leave personal firewood at home because it may carry pests that harm the park and local environment. Much the same reason those from here should not go elsewhere.
  • Just like your public spots at home, the rule of thumb here is to carry out rubbish. That helps all of us and the National Park Service is most appreciative.
  • Bring a stock of reusable bags for shopping as that’s the practice in Maine.
  • Carry in your Acadia ‘wish list’ and carry out lots of good memories.

Places to Stay In and Around The Park

You read that right! You can stay right in Acadia if you like to camp. Or, if you’re at least willing to give it a try. Getting reservations for the high summer season is an adventure unto itself, and one that can seem daunting at times. No worries! There are plenty of private camping options right nearby.

  • You’ll be happy to know there’s Acadia National Park Camping available with three campgrounds on Mount Desert Island and another down the line on Isle au Haut.
  • The Appalachian Mountain Club (AMC) has a special spot at Echo Lake Camp. The wooded platform tent setting is open a limited number of weeks during the summer.
  • Yup, KOA Bar Harbor/Oceanside has cabins, RV and tent sites right there by the water!
  • Bar Harbor Camping Resorts lets you choose from three different locations in the general area, offering you tent and/or RV sites.
  • Mount Desert Campground is near the park. It has tent sites and those for RVs and trailers up to 20 feet. There’s water access for swimming and kayaking, along with plenty of natural views and privacy.

These options are but a few of the many other campgrounds you’ll find within a reasonable distance of Acadia. Or perhaps, you decide you want to stay someplace special, enjoying some comfortable ambience at the end of your daily adventures.

Lodging Near Acadia

exterior view of the bar harbor inn The list of lodgings and restaurants in Bar Harbor and quite nearby is as lengthy as it is varied. We’ve shortened that search for you a bit with descriptions of a few places to stay and dine.

This includes some that are year-round and pet-friendly, with these options quite close to all the interesting things to do in and around Bar Harbor.

  • Bar Harbor Inn & Spa is a commanding place to stay as it is located on the waterfront in Bar Harbor, mere steps from shops and the distinctive features of this welcoming village. This well-appointed lodging is seasonal, opening just as Spring begins.
  • Atlantic Oceanside is open year round, featuring property right on the water and a mile from town.
  • The Saltair Inn is a bed and breakfast located on the water and a 10-minute walk to Bar Harbor’s eclectic shops.
  • The Bluenose Inn and Wonder View Inn are adjacent lodgings with the latter being pet-friendly. This seasonal setting is perched on a hillside, offering scenic views of the park and Frenchman Bay. Along with pools and other activities, you’ll find The Looking Glass Restaurant, a lofty seasonal spot for breakfast, as they’re open from 7 to 10:30 a.m.
  • The Balance Rock Inn is another seasonal, pet-friendly lodging option close to town.

Places To Eat Near Acadia

jordan pond house restaurant near acadia national park in Maine
Now that you have some ideas of where to stay, it’s time to think about food! This starts off with grocery stores for those of you who are camping, picnicking, or having fun snacking your way through Acadia!

  • Right in Bar Harbor you’ll find Hannaford, a full-service grocer, plus a few specialty foods stores, including those where you can buy fresh seafood. One of those is Peekytoe Provisions where you can also order up some yummy takeout. Speaking of takeout meals, we’ll come back to those after a look at some local restaurants.
  • A standout is Jordan Pond House that’s located right in Acadia overlooking that famous and highly photographed body of water. This seasonal restaurant offers, among other culinary delights, tea and popovers on the lawn, a tradition that goes back many, many years.
  • The Chart Room is a mere 3/10 mile from Acadia’s entrance and 2 miles from Bar Harbor’s center. There’s a varied menu and water views at this year round, long-operating restaurant.
  • The Nor’easter Pound & Market is on the south side of Mt. Desert Island and about 20 minutes from Bar Harbor and only 10 from Acadia’s entrance, adding interest to your travels.

As you’ll see with a quick search, the Bar Harbor area is literally full of dining options, from Thai and pizza to fresh seafood at almost every turn. Plus, it’s nice to have eat-in and takeout options, such as those at Siam Orchid for Thai food, and the Dog & Pony Tavern for local flavor and thirst-quenching beverages. The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce website has plenty more info on places to stay and dine.

Well, there you have it! Whether you’re coming from a distance, or just down the road, you’ll be happy to have visited Acadia National Park. Wishing you happy trails and safe travels!