Located on the coast of Maine, Acadia National Park encompasses 47,000 acres of mountains, forests, valleys and shoreline. With its renowned fall foliage and serene views of jagged cliffs, it’s no wonder Acadia is the most-visited tourist destination in Maine. Within the park, you can find the tallest mountain on the Eastern Seaboard of the United States, along with over a hundred trails to explore the landscape.
Acadia National Park is accessible by various transportation modes, whether you prefer to take a road trip, fly, or hop on a ferry. The closest major airport is Bangor International Airport, located approximately 46 miles from the park, while the regional Hancock County Airport is just 10 miles away. There is also a ferry that operates between Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Once you’re on the island, the free Island Explorer Shuttle is a convenient way to get around!
If you’re planning a trip to check this park off your list, we recommend spending at least three days here so you can experience everything the area has to offer. The park is the busiest in the summer, so opt for the shoulder season to avoid the crowds.
Ready to embark on your adventure? Continue reading to discover the top 16 things to do in Acadia National Park.
1. Watch the Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain
At 1,530 feet tall, the summit of Cadillac Mountain provides panoramic views of Acadia National Park. The most popular time to visit is dawn, when the sun rises above the horizon and fills the sky with vibrant colors. The summit is accessible by car, as well as several hiking trails.
Planning tip: You need to purchase a vehicle registration if you’re visiting between May 25 and October 22. According to the National Park Service (NPS), some vehicle reservations are released to the public 90 days ahead, while the rest of the reservations become available at 10 a.m. two days before the intended date. These reservations will likely sell out quickly, so it’s important to plan ahead.
2. See the Bass Harbor Head Light Station
The view of Bass Harbor Head Light Station looks straight out of a postcard. Built in 1858, the lighthouse sits on a rugged cliff that looks out into the harbor. When you arrive, a path takes you to a vantage point to see the iconic view. Keep in mind that visitors can not enter the house.
Planning tip: Parking here is limited, so it’s best to plan your visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
3. Drive the Park Loop Road
Park Loop Road is a 27-mile scenic drive around Mount Desert Island. The road starts at the Hulls Cove Visitor Center and runs through forests and along the coastline, as well as many other attractions on this list. There are plenty of pull-off areas you can stop at to fully take in the breathtaking views.
Planning tip: While it takes approximately 45 minutes to drive the loop without stopping, three to four hours will give you enough time to get out and see the sights.
4. Hike the Beehive Loop Trail
The Beehive Loop is one of the most popular trails at Acadia National Park. The hike is 1.4 miles and typically takes 1-2 hours to complete. As a fairly short-rung and ladder trail, the Beehive Loop is an excellent introduction to more challenging hikes. If you opt for this hike, you will encounter steep granite steps and climb up exposed cliffs.
If Beehive Loop isn’t for you, don’t worry because Acadia National Park has plenty of other trails. Below are additional trails to check out based on your hiking level:
- Ocean Path
- Duration: 2-4 hours
- Difficulty: Easy
- Wonderland Trail
- Duration: 30-60 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Gorham Mountain Loop
- Duration: 1-3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Great Head Trail
- Duration: 2-4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Precipice Trail
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Strenuous
- Giant Slide Loop
- Duration: 2-4 hours
- Difficulty: Strenuous
Planning tip: While leashed dogs are allowed at most areas of the park, ladder and rung trails are off limits to pets. If you want to bring your furry friend along for the adventure, choose a pet-friendly trail.
5. Explore Sand Beach
Nestled within the cliffs of Acadia National Park, Sand Beach is a quaint stretch of coastline. Here, you can look for seashells, swim in the crystal blue waters or just relax in the sun. You can also visit Sand Beach at night to enjoy stargazing.
Planning tip: The ocean here typically maintains a temperature under 55 degrees even in the summer months, so consider packing a wet suit if you don’t want to brace for the cold.
6. Bike the Carriage Roads
The carriage roads are a 45-mile auto-free path system perfect for exploring Acadia by foot, bicycle, horseback or horse-drawn carriage. These paths are an example of “broken stone” roads that were common in the United States during the early 1900s. The carriage roads loop around many popular attractions that you can stop at during your journey, including Eagle Lake and Jordan Pond.
Planning tip: Consider taking a guided ebike tour of carriage roads to enjoy a leisurely ride through the park’s stunning landscape.
7. Visit Thunder Hole
One of the most spectacular landmarks in the park, Thunder Hole is a narrow inlet carved out of seaside cliffs. When waves crash against the rocks, air is released, which causes water to spray upward with the sound of an accompanying thunderous boom. This marvelous sight shows the true power of the ocean.
Planning tip: If you stand on the viewing deck, prepare to get wet!
8. See the Bubble Rock
The most well-known geological feature in Acadia National Park, the Bubble Rock is an iconic, minivan-sized boulder that rests on the summit of the South Bubble trail. A glacier transported the rock to its precarious position tens of thousands of years ago. While it may look like even a swift breeze could cause the boulder to fall off the edge, Bubble Rock won’t budge—although you can have fun attempting to push it!
Planning tip: To see this interesting landmark, hike the 1.5-mile Bubbles trail that begins at the Bubbles Divide parking lot.
9. Admire the Views from Otter Cliff
Located along Park Loop Road, Otter Cliff towers 110-feet high and offers incredible ocean views. While there are no sea otters at Otter Cliff, you may see adventurous climbers scaling the rock walls.
Planning tip: The rocks on Otter Cliff can get quite slippery, so exercise caution when walking here.
10. Take a Boat Tour
To discover Acadia from a different viewpoint, consider going on a boat excursion. Most tours depart from the Bar Harbor area and sail around Mount Desert Island so you can take in the views of the park from the water. You may even see some marine wildlife, such as seals, porpoises and different species of birds. From small boats to large cruises, there are many different options based on your preferences.
Planning tip: Air temperatures are colder on the water, so bring layers to bundle up!
11. Go Tidepooling
Acadia National Park is speckled with tide pools, which are pockets of seawater that get trapped as the tide recedes into the ocean. In tidepools, you can find and observe various plant and animal species, including snails, cams, starfish and clams. The best time to go tide pooling is 1.5 hours before and after low tide.
Planning tip: The park prohibits the collection of animals, plants and minerals, so remember to leave everything where you found it.
12. Immerse Yourself in the Wild Gardens of Acadia
When you visit the Wild Gardens of Acadia, you can observe more than 400 native plants in a tranquil setting. As you stroll through the pathways, read thoughtful displays and learn about each plant species as you take in the beauty of the environment. Next to the gardens is the Sieur de Monts Nature Center, where you can discover even more about the “science behind the scenery” of Acadia National Park.
Planning tip: The Wild Gardens of Acadia is also one of the best spots to go bird-watching in the park, so remember to bring your binoculars!
13. Explore the Schoodic Peninsula
The only section of Acadia National Park located on the mainland, the Schoodic Peninsula encompasses over 2,000 acres of forests and shoreline. This area of the park is typically more serene and secluded, so it’s a great place to visit if you’re hoping to get off the beaten path. There is a six-mile loop around the Schoodic Peninsula with pull-off areas to admire the granite headlands along the coast.
Planning tip: Follow Arey Cove Road to Schoodic Point for stunning views of Mount Desert Island.
14. Enjoy a Meal at the Jordan Pond House
If you're looking for a restaurant in Acadia National Park, look no further than the Jordan Pond House. Offering beautiful views from the sprawling lawn, it's the perfect place to unwind between your adventures. The lunch menu features soups, salads and sandwiches, while the dinner menu offers a range of entrees.
Planning tip: Request a reservation to avoid a wait.
15. Venture to Isle Au Haut
Originally discovered by French explorer Samuel Champlain in 1604, Isle au Haut, meaning “High Island,” is a remote village perfect for escaping the crowds. Since it's only accessible via a ferry and automobiles aren’t permitted, visiting this island transports you to a natural sanctuary. The small village has a quaint Post Office, a Congregational church and a general store. During the summer, locals and visitors alike head to Long Pond to enjoy swimming, kayaking and fishing.
The year-round population of this remote island town is under 100 people, and visitation is limited, so you can explore unspoiled nature in a tranquil environment. Lodging on the island is extremely scarce, so if you're looking to stay overnight, consider reserving a spot at Duck Harbor Campground. Keep in mind that reservations tend to book up well in advance.
Planning tip: Cellular service is spotty on the island, although the Eastern side typically has the best reception.
16. Walk Around Downtown Bar Harbor
To conclude your trip to Acadia National Park, why not make a pit stop in Bar Harbor? This coastal town on Mount Desert Island is lined with quaint coffee shops, boutiques and waterfront restaurants.
There are a wide range of ways you can explore Bar Harbor, depending on your interests. For example, you can learn about the town’s history with a self-guided audio tour or experience the paranormal side of Bar Harbor by taking a ghost tour. Meanwhile, foodies may opt for a culinary tour where you can taste the local fare. No matter how you explore this charming town, you’re sure to discover hidden gems around every corner.
Planning tip: Top-rated hotels in Bar Harbor include Harborside Hotel Spa & Marina and West Street Hotel.
Visit Acadia National Park With AAA
With so much to explore, a visit to Acadia National Park is sure to provide an unforgettable adventure. As you plan your trip, don’t forget to use your AAA membership to get exclusive discounts on rental cars, hotels, dining and more.