Located along the rugged coastline of Maine, Acadia National Park offers stunning ocean views, forested trails, and granite mountain peaks. It’s the perfect destination for hikers, cyclists, and anyone who loves the great outdoors.

Park Overview

Acadia National Park covers over 49,000 acres on Mount Desert Island and parts of the surrounding coast. Known for its combination of rocky shores, woodlands, and Cadillac Mountain—the tallest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast—Acadia offers a diverse natural playground. With over 150 miles of hiking trails and iconic sights like Jordan Pond and Sand Beach, it’s one of the most visited national parks in the U.S.

• Location: Bar Harbor, Maine
• Established: July 8, 1916
• Size: 49,075 acres
• Annual Visitors: Approximately 4 million
• Park Type: Coastal, forest, mountain

Top Things to Do

• Drive the Park Loop Road for breathtaking coastal views
• Hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain at sunrise
• Bike the historic Carriage Roads
• Relax at Sand Beach or explore tide pools at low tide
• Visit Jordan Pond and enjoy a popover at the Jordan Pond House

Best Time to Visit

Acadia is beautiful year-round, but each season brings something special. Spring and fall are ideal for avoiding summer crowds while enjoying mild temperatures and natural beauty.

• Spring: Blooming wildflowers, cool hiking weather
• Summer: Warm days, popular for beach visits and family vacations
• Fall: Spectacular foliage, crisp air, and fewer crowds
• Winter: Quiet trails, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing

Visitor Tips

• Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle (valid 7 days)
• Hours: Open year-round, 24/7
• Permits/Reservations: Required to drive Cadillac Mountain during peak season
• Accessibility: Visitor centers and some Carriage Roads are wheelchair accessible
• Pet Policy: Pets allowed on most trails and carriage roads (on a leash)
• Safety Tips: Watch for slippery rocks, carry water, and check tides before coastal hikes

History and Cultural Significance

Acadia was the first national park established east of the Mississippi River. It began as Sieur de Monts National Monument in 1916, thanks to the conservation efforts of George B. Dorr and Charles W. Eliot. The park honors both the natural landscape and the Wabanaki people, the original inhabitants of this land. Historic structures like the Carriage Roads were built by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., adding unique charm and accessibility to the park’s terrain.

How to Get There

• Nearest City: Bar Harbor, ME (adjacent to park)
• Nearest Airport: Hancock County–Bar Harbor Airport (BHB)
• Driving Directions: From Bangor, take Route 1A south to Ellsworth, then Route 3 to Bar Harbor
• Public Transit/Shuttle: Island Explorer Shuttle (free, seasonal service within the park)

Nearby Attractions

• Bar Harbor town shops and restaurants
• Schoodic Peninsula section of Acadia
• Abbe Museum (Wabanaki culture and history)

Where to Stay

• Campgrounds: Blackwoods, Seawall, Schoodic Woods
• Lodging: Bar Harbor Inn, Jordan Pond House
• Nearby Hotels or Rentals: Numerous options in Bar Harbor and surrounding towns

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Acadia worth visiting?
A: Absolutely. Its unique mix of ocean, forest, and mountains makes it one of the most scenic and accessible parks in the U.S.

Q: How many days should you spend at Acadia?
A: Ideally 2–4 days to explore hiking trails, scenic drives, and coastal highlights.

Q: Are pets allowed?
A: Yes, but they must be leashed and are allowed on most trails and carriage roads.

Q: Is Acadia National Park open year-round?
A: Yes, but some roads and services close in winter.

Map Section

Include a custom map showing park entrances, Park Loop Road, Cadillac Mountain, Jordan Pond, Carriage Roads, and visitor centers.

Photo Gallery

• Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain
• Autumn foliage along Park Loop Road
• Kayaking on Jordan Pond
• Hikers on Beehive Trail
• Rocky coastline at Thunder Hole

Visitor Experiences

“The views from Cadillac Mountain are unlike anything I’ve seen on the East Coast.” – Laura M.

“The Carriage Roads are perfect for a relaxing bike ride through the forest.” – Ethan K.

Plan Your Visit – CTA

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