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.

Review:★★★★★ Spanning Mount Desert Island, Isle au Haut, and the Schoodic Peninsula, Acadia invites you 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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