In upper Maine along the Atlantic coast sits one of Americas most beautiful parks. Acadia National Park was formed in 1919 and was the first National Park east of the Mississippi. The park was created from private land donations of those looking to preserve the land's beauty. The park is now one of the most visited in the United States despite being one of the smallest National Parks. The park is most known for its rocky coastline and beautiful beaches all with the mountains in the background.
Dos:
Take Advantage of the Shuttle Service: Whether you’re staying at a campground, downtown or park your car at the visitor center, the free shuttle can make your travel around the park so much easier. We took advantage of the shuttle and rode it around to our hikes and town. Embrace the convenience it offers; it eliminates the need for driving, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the park's beauty.
Stay at Bar Harbour Campground. The campground is located just around the corner from the main entrance to the park. The owners let you pick your own spot and charge a flat rate for them all. The free park shuttle is available from the campground. Find the campground here: 44.43137° N, 68.27118° W
Utilize Your Parks Pass: If you have a National Parks Pass, use it for entry to Acadia. This will save you from paying the entry fee. The park is located about five minutes from Bar Harbor.
Visit Hulls Cove Visitor Center: Make a stop at Hulls Cove Visitor Center to get your park's stamp. Additionally, you can park your car here and hop on the shuttle, making it a convenient starting point for your adventures.
Drive Loop Road: Loop Road offers numerous beautiful overlooks, providing panoramic views of Acadia's rugged coastline and lush mountains. Don't miss this scenic drive.
Take a Dip at Sand Beach: Sand Beach is a picturesque cove with sparkling sand, nestled between cliffs. It's an ideal spot to relax and take a refreshing dip. The scenery here is truly magical, its the type of cove where you expect to find mermaids.
Hike the Ocean Path Trail: This 4.5 mile trail offers incredible views along the cliffs overlooking the ocean, showcasing the park's iconic beauty. It's a must-visit for capturing postcard-worthy photos. Find it here. The different colors of the ocean and the ever changing granite cliffs take your breath away.
Explore Otter Cliffs: Hiking from the Ocean Path to Otter Cliffs is an adventure in itself. It is a nice 1.1 out and back trail you can find here. The fog that tends to gather there adds an eerie ambiance, along with the bell ringing in the distance to warn boats about the hidden cliffs. I was waiting to see a pirate ship dramatically appear out of the fog.
Walk the Jordan Pond Trail: Enjoy a leisurely walk around Jordan Pond, it's a flat and easy 3.1 mile loop. Find the hike here.The pond (I would dare say lake) is the perfect spot for a picnic. Afterward, treat yourself to a local Old Soaker root beer or blueberry soda at the Jordan Pond store.
Sunrise at Cadillac Mountain: Witness a breathtaking sunrise atop Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on Mount Desert Island. Be sure to secure your ticketed time slot from May to October. You can get your ticket here.
Challenge Yourself on the Beehive Trail: If you're up for a thrilling hike (or risking your life), try the Beehive Trail. The trail is one of the National Park Services infamous iron rung hikes. Meaning there is many sections of the trail in which you will need to use iron rungs drilled into the side of the cliffs to stabilize yourself or to help you climb up the cliff itself. Although once you have climbed your way up, the view on top of the peak overlooks all of Sand Beach and the surrounding area. The hike was absolutely thrilling and a brief 1.6 mile loop with 533 feet of elevation gain….straight up. Find the Beehive Trail here.
Explore Bar Harbor: Don't forget to visit the charming town of Bar Harbor. Savor fresh lobster, soak in the sea views, and explore quaint shops. Treat yourself to some local ice cream as well.
Don’ts:
Expect to hike the Precipice Trail During Falcon Nesting Season: Check the National Park website for trail closures, especially during falcon nesting season. I was very sad to miss out on this hike but if you are Interested the park rangers stationed at the trail head will show you the falcon nests and educate you on the birds.
Lose Focus on the Beehive Trail: If you have a fear of heights or are not steady on your feet, the Beehive Trail may not be suitable for you. You will be on the edge of a cliff and then climbing up the cliff itself.
Expect Warm Ocean Water: The ocean waters on this side of the country rarely exceed 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Be prepared for chilly waters if you plan to swim.
Expect the Shuttle to be Fast on Weekends: During weekends, the shuttle can get crowded, and you might experience some waiting time. Bring a snack or a book to pass the time and be kind to the shuttle drivers.
Acadia National Park, with its diverse landscapes and outdoor adventures, offers a truly unforgettable experience. I have always heard that it is a place where you could get lost for weeks exploring the parks beauty and now I can truly attest that is true.
Onto the next sky!
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