Perched along the rugged coastline of Maine, Acadia National Park is a spectacular blend of forested trails, rocky beaches, historic carriage roads, and sweeping ocean views. Spanning Mount Desert Island, Isle au Haut, and the Schoodic Peninsula, Acadia invites visitors to explore its diverse landscapes, rich cultural history, and endless outdoor activities.

Recommended For

Families & First-Time Visitors: Enjoy beaches, ranger-led programs, and scenic bike rides on historic carriage roads.

Hikers & Adventurers: Discover over 125 miles of hiking trails across varied terrain and island escapes.

History & Nature Lovers: Explore ancient Wabanaki sites, historic climbing cliffs, and wildlife-filled tidepools.

What to Expect

  • Location: Coast of Maine, including Mount Desert Island, Isle au Haut, and Schoodic Peninsula
  • Size: Over 49,000 acres of forests, mountains, lakes, and shoreline
  • Founded: Originally Sieur de Monts National Monument (1916), became Acadia National Park in 1929
  • Season: Open year-round, peak visitation from May to October

Highlights

  • Cadillac Mountain: Highest point on the U.S. East Coast, ideal for sunrise views
  • Isle au Haut: Remote hiking, biking, and ferry-accessible adventure
  • Schoodic Peninsula: Less crowded area with dramatic coastal scenery and biking trails
  • Frenchman Bay & Baker Island Cruises: Ranger-narrated boat tours with wildlife and historic insights

Things to Do

  • Hiking: Explore 125 miles of trails including Duck Harbor, Schoodic Head, and Isle au Haut’s rugged coastline
  • Biking: Ride 45 miles of historic carriage roads or 8+ miles of Schoodic biking paths
  • Tidepooling: Visit Bar Island Sand Bar, Wonderland, or Ship Harbor during low tide
  • Climbing: Try Otter Cliff, Great Head, or beginner routes at South Bubble
  • Beaches: Relax at Sand Beach or the warmer waters of Echo Lake Beach

Isle au Haut

  • Location: Near Stonington, Maine, with ferry access
  • Trails: 18 miles across freshwater lakes, bogs, forests, and rocky shores
  • Biking: 7 miles of unpaved roads (mountain bikes recommended), 5 miles of paved roads
  • Access: Passenger ferry runs year-round; summer service to Duck Harbor Campground

Schoodic Peninsula

  • Scenic Drive: Schoodic Loop Road with ocean views and wildlife pull-offs
  • Hiking: Easy trails like Alder and Sundew; difficult options like Anvil and East Trail
  • Biking: 8.3 miles of winding trails and Island Explorer bus service with bike racks

Kid-Friendly Activities

  • Junior Ranger Program: Hands-on activities to earn badges and explore nature
  • Nature Center: Interactive exhibits at Sieur de Monts Spring
  • Family Hiking & Biking: Carriage roads and shorter hikes suitable for all ages

Climbing Opportunities

  • Sea Cliffs: Otter Cliff and Great Head offer rappel-access and scenic climbs
  • Beginner Areas: South Bubble and Central Slabs with one-pitch routes
  • Bouldering: Popular near Sand Beach and Blackwoods Campground

Boat Cruises

  • Frenchman Bay Cruise: Two-hour wildlife and history tour aboard a schooner
  • Islesford Cruise: Visit Little Cranberry Island and the Islesford Museum
  • Baker Island Cruise: Half-day trip with ranger-led hike through historic island terrain

Visitor Tips

  • Check Ferry Schedules: Especially if visiting Isle au Haut or Duck Harbor
  • Visit Early: Arrive early for Cadillac Mountain sunrise or popular trails
  • Respect Tides: Tidepooling and Bar Island access are tide-dependent
  • Stay on Trails: Help protect delicate coastal ecosystems

Contact & Hours

Acadia National Park
Address: 74485 National Park Dr., Twentynine Palms, CA 92277-3597
Phone: 207-288-3338
Website: nps.gov/acad

Map

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