Acadia National Park

Established in 1916, Acadia National Park is the first national park east of the Mississippi River and the only national park in New England. Located primarily on Maine's Mount Desert Island, this 49,075-acre park preserves one of the most scenic sections of the Atlantic coast.

The park is known for its dramatic coastal landscapes, where the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean meet granite mountains, creating a unique ecosystem that supports diverse plant and animal life.

Quick Facts

Location

Maine

Established

1916

Size

49,075 acres

Annual Visitors

~3.97 million

Best Time to Visit

June to October

Trail Network

120+ miles

Park Highlights

Cadillac Mountain

The highest point on the Atlantic coast of North America, offering spectacular sunrise views and panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands and ocean. Reservations required for summit road access during peak season.

Park Loop Road

A 27-mile scenic drive that connects the park's major attractions, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliffs.

Jordan Pond

A pristine glacier-formed lake surrounded by mountains, featuring the historic Jordan Pond House known for its traditional popovers and tea.

Carriage Roads

45 miles of rustic carriage roads, built by John D. Rockefeller Jr., perfect for hiking, biking, and horse-drawn carriage rides.

Thunder Hole

A natural inlet where waves crash into a small cave, creating thunderous sounds and spectacular splashes that can reach up to 40 feet high during rough seas. Check the tide schedule for best viewing times.

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

An iconic lighthouse perched on dramatic cliffs, offering stunning sunset views and photo opportunities of Maine's rugged coastline.

Popular Activities

Hiking (over 120 miles of trails)
Rock climbing
Birdwatching
Scenic driving
Bicycling
Swimming at Sand Beach
Tide pooling
Winter activities (cross-country skiing, snowshoeing)

Essential Information

Weather & Climate

Experience all four distinct seasons at Acadia. Check current conditions before your visit. Winter visitors should be prepared for icy conditions and limited access to certain areas.

Camping & Lodging

Choose from several campgrounds including Blackwoods, Seawall, and Schoodic Woods. For more comfort, numerous hotels and inns are available in nearby Bar Harbor.

Wildlife & Ecology

Discover diverse wildlife including moose, peregrine falcons, and harbor seals. Remember to observe animals from a safe distance and never feed wildlife to protect both visitors and animals.

Safety & Conservation

Practice Leave No Trace principles: stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and follow fire regulations. Be prepared for sudden weather changes and challenging terrain.

Accessibility

The park offers wheelchair-accessible trails and facilities, including sections of the historic Carriage Roads, ensuring everyone can experience Acadia's beauty.

Getting There

The park is located on Mount Desert Island, accessible via Maine Route 3. The nearest airport is Hancock County Airport (10 miles away) or Bangor International Airport (50 miles away).

Plan Your Visit

The best time to visit Acadia is from late spring through fall. Summer brings warm days and cool nights, perfect for outdoor activities. Fall offers spectacular foliage colors, while winter provides opportunities for snow sports.

The main park roads typically open in mid-April and close in December. The Park Loop Road and Cadillac Summit Road may be closed during winter storms. Some facilities and services are seasonal, with peak operations from June through October.

Entrance passes are required year-round and can be purchased online or at park visitor centers. Camping is available at several campgrounds within the park, but reservations are strongly recommended during peak season.