As a travel enthusiast and outdoor lover, I’ve had my fair share of adventures in national parks across the United States. Acadia National Park, located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, is undoubtedly one of my favorites. Its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and myriad best places to visit in Acadia make it a must-visit destination for anyone who appreciates nature. In this article, I’m excited to share my personal experiences and recommendations for the best things to do in Acadia National Park, along with some tips for making the most of your visit. Are you ready to explore with me and nationalparkshops.com? Let’s go!
Best things to do in Acadia National Park: My Opinion
If you’re planning a visit to Acadia National Park, here are the top things I recommend you focus on exploring. Of course, plan according to your own preferences and travel style, and keep reading the rest of the list for more great ideas.
Explore Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
One of the most iconic landmarks in Acadia National Park, the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is a must-see attraction for visitors. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline and is a popular spot for photography. You can take a short stroll from the parking area to reach the lighthouse, where you can learn about its history and significance to the area.
See the sunrise on Cadillac Mountain
A visit to Acadia is not complete without witnessing the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain. It is a must-do activity in Acadia, so make sure to arrive early to secure parking before sunrise.
Watching the Acadia National Park sunrise from the summit of Cadillac Mountain is a truly magical experience. As the first rays of sunlight creep over the horizon, the landscape is bathed in a warm glow, creating a breathtaking sight that is sure to leave a lasting impression. Be sure to arrive early to secure a spot and bring warm clothing, as the summit can be quite chilly, even in the summer months.
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Hiking Beehive Trail
The Beehive Trail is a popular hike in Acadia National Park known for its iron rungs and ladders, adding a fun climbing element to your hike.
This trail can be quite exposed, so if you’re afraid of heights, be prepared. Starting near Sand Beach, the Beehive Trail offers stunning views of the ocean and the beach. The trail forms a loop with the Bowl Trail, giving you the option to take a different route down than the one you took on the way up.
Hiking Jordan Cliffs Trail
The Jordan Cliffs Trail is a highly recommended hike that provides various views, iron rung ladders, and more distance compared to shorter trails. The trail starts close to the Jordan Pond House and takes you up to the Penobscot Mountain peak. If desired, you can continue on to reach the Sargent Mountain Summit, adding an extra 1.5 miles to your journey.
Hiking Beech Cliffs Trail
The Beech Cliffs Trail is a challenging hike that takes you along the cliffs overlooking Somes Sound, one of the only fjords on the East Coast. This scenic trail offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a great option for hikers looking for a more moderate challenge.
The trail is well-marked and relatively easy to follow, with some steep sections and rocky terrain. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the fjord and the surrounding mountains. As you hike along the Beech Cliffs Trail, keep an eye out for a variety of Acadia National Park wildlife. You may spot bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and other birds of prey soaring overhead. You might also see deer, moose, or other mammals in the surrounding forests.
Afternoon at Sand Beach
After a day of hiking and exploring, a visit to Sand Beach is the perfect way to unwind and soak up the natural beauty of Acadia National Park. This picturesque stretch of sand is surrounded by the park’s rugged cliffs and offers a serene spot to relax and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Sand Beach offers a range of amenities for visitors, including a large parking area, restrooms, and picnic tables. There is also a visitor center nearby, where you can learn more about the natural and cultural history of Acadia National Park.
Swimming, Boating and Fishing, Horseback Riding
Acadia National Park is not just about hiking and exploring the coastline – it also offers a range of water-based activities for visitors to enjoy.
One of the best ways to cool off on a hot day in Acadia is to take a dip in one of the park’s many lakes in Acadia. Jordan Pond and Eagle Lake are two popular spots for swimming, with clear, refreshing waters and beautiful natural surroundings.
You can also explore Acadia’s waterways by boat or kayaking. The park offers several boat launch sites. Popular destinations for boating and kayaking include Somes Sound, Frenchman Bay, and the numerous coves and inlets along the coastline.
Acadia National Park is also a popular destination for anglers, with a variety of fish species to be found in the park’s lakes, streams, and coastal waters. Some of the most common catches include brook trout, landlocked salmon, and smallmouth bass. Visitors will need to obtain a Maine fishing license before casting their lines. And don’t forget to try Horseback Riding. It’s so impressive!!!
Camping at Acadia National Park: A Brief Guide
Camping at Acadia National Park is an experience you’ll cherish forever. This stunning park, located on Maine’s rugged coast, offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor activities. Here are the top campgrounds to consider for your stay:
Blackwoods Campground
Located just five miles south of Bar Harbor, Blackwoods is a favorite among campers. It offers easy access to hiking trails, the Park Loop Road, and the coastline. With amenities like restrooms, potable water, and a dump station, it’s well-equipped for a comfortable stay. Reservations are required during peak season, so plan ahead.
Seawall Campground
On the western side of Mount Desert Island, Seawall Campground offers a quieter, more rustic camping experience. It’s less crowded and perfect for those seeking a serene retreat. The nearby Seawall Picnic Area provides beautiful views for your meals. The campground has basic amenities like restrooms and potable water.
Schoodic Woods Campground
For a more secluded experience, Schoodic Woods Campground on the Schoodic Peninsula is ideal. This campground offers spacious sites, modern facilities, and stunning ocean views. It’s a great spot for exploring the Schoodic Scenic Byway and local hiking and biking trails.
Premium Narrated Bus Tour of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park
If you’re looking for a more relaxed way to experience the park, consider taking a premium narrated bus tour of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. This tour gave me a unique perspective on the area, as the knowledgeable guides shared fascinating stories and insights about the park’s history and geology.
The bus tour takes you to some of the park’s most iconic sights, including the famous War Memorial, the scenic loops, and stunning viewpoints. I appreciated the chance to sit back and enjoy the scenery without the stress of navigating the roads myself.
This option is perfect for families or those who may not be able to hike extensively but still want to experience the beauty of Acadia.
Bike the Carriage Roads
Hop on your bicycle and explore Acadia’s 45 miles of historic carriage roads and stone bridges, which have been in existence since 1913. This offers a unique way to discover Acadia instead of using a car or walking. Don’t worry because I don’t have a bicycle. In towns near Acadia, there are always reputable bike rental locations in Acadia National Park with everything you need.
Refer to the map of the Carriage Roads to determine where you want to start your journey. Common starting points include Jordan Pond, Bubble Pond, Eagle Lake, or the Hulls Cove Visitor Center.
Eat Lobster
No trip to Maine would be complete without indulging in some fresh lobster. During my stay in Acadia National Park, I made it a point to try this local delicacy.
Bar Harbor is known for its excellent seafood restaurants in Acadia and I found a charming spot that served the most delicious lobster rolls I’ve ever tasted. The sweet, tender meat was piled high on a buttery roll, making for a perfect meal after a long day of hiking and exploring.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider visiting a local lobster shack where you can experience the true Maine lobster experience. Some places even offer lobster boils, which are a fun way to enjoy this iconic dish with friends and family.
How Many Days Do You Need On Acadia National Park?
You might be wondering how many days you should spend in Acadia National Park to fully enjoy all it has to offer. In my experience, I recommend spending at least three to four days in the park to truly immerse yourself in its beauty.
With so many hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and activities to enjoy, having a few days allows you to explore at a leisurely pace without feeling rushed. You can dedicate a day to hiking, another to biking the carriage roads, and perhaps a day for relaxation at Sand Beach or exploring Bar Harbor.
If you have more time, consider extending your stay to fully appreciate the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. There’s always something new to discover!
My Top Tips For A Great First Visit To Acadia
To have the perfect and safest trip for your first time to Acadia National Park, I will suggest you some tips below. Remember to consider and bring it with you on your journey. I’m sure you’ll need it.
- Plan Your Itinerary: It’s essential to determine which activities and attractions you wish to experience in order to optimize your time while visiting the park. By prioritizing these elements, you can create a well-structured plan that ensures you see everything on your list.
- Dress in Layers: Given that Acadia’s weather can be unpredictable and may shift rapidly throughout the day, wearing multiple layers of clothing will help you stay comfortable regardless of the conditions. This way, you can easily adjust your attire to suit the temperature and weather changes.
- Start Early: To beat the crowds and ensure you have access to parking at popular locations, it’s advisable to begin your day early, particularly if you’re planning on embarking on a sunrise hike. This not only enhances your experience but also allows you to enjoy the tranquility of the park before many other visitors arrive.
- Bring Snacks: Hiking can be quite physically demanding and tiring, so it’s wise to prepare by bringing an ample supply of snacks and hydration. Keeping your energy levels up with nutritious food and plenty of water on your water bottle during your outdoor excursions is crucial for maintaining stamina and enjoyment.
- Respect Nature: It’s important to adhere to Leave No Trace principles while exploring the park, which includes staying on designated trails. This practice helps safeguard the park’s fragile ecosystems and ensures the natural beauty remains preserved for future visitors.
- Take Your Time: Rather than hurrying through your exploration, allow yourself plenty of time to truly appreciate the stunning landscapes, unwind, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty that Acadia has to offer. Slowing down can lead to a more fulfilling experience overall.
Conclusion
Above is my guide to the best things to do in Acadia National Park for you. Whether you’re just here for a few days sightseeing or going on a multi-day trip, there will always be plenty of activities available for you. I know that the experience will be a memorable one for all of us. Happy planning!
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