Located on the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park encompasses over 47,000 acres of granite-domed mountains, woodlands, lakes and ponds, and ocean shoreline. Such diverse habitats create striking scenery and make the park a haven for wildlife and plants.
Entwined with the natural diversity of Acadia is the story of people. Evidence suggests native people first lived here at least 5,000 years ago. Subsequent centuries brought explorers from far lands, settlers of European descent, and, arising directly from the beauty of the landscape, tourism and preservation.
Attracted by the paintings and written works of the rusticators, artists who portrayed the beauty of Mount Desert Island in their works, the affluent of the turn of the century flocked to the area. Though they came in search of social and recreational activities, these early conservationists had much to do with preserving the landscape we know today. George B. Dorr, the park's first superintendent, came from this social strata. He devoted 43 years of his life, energy, and family fortune to preserving the Acadia landscape. Thanks to the foresight of Dorr and others like him, Acadia became the first national park established east of the Mississippi.
Today the park offers scientific, educational, and recreational activities unparalleled along the east coast. Hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain to enjoy a spectacular sunrise over Frenchman's Bay or explore some of the quieter, more secluded mountain paths. Bike over 40 miles of the tree-lined carriage roads that wind over hillsides and near glassy lakes. Join a ranger to experience Acadia's resources first-hand. Or just admire the views and let yourself unwind, knowing you're taking part in a long-standing tradition.
Climbing
Acadia National Park offers a variety of fine climbs on small cliffs created during the last continental glaciation. Most of these cliffs are composed of solid coarse-grained pink granite. The longest routes are three pitches. Otter Cliffs and Great Head provide a spectacular setting for sea cliff climbing not commonly available elsewhere in the U.S.
- Otter Cliffs: 60' sea cliffs, crack and face climbing, rappel access, routes up to 5.12
- South Wall (Champlain): 3-pitch routes to 5.12, good corners and thin cracks
- Central Slabs: 1-pitch routes, some good beginner routes, routes to 5.10
- South Bubble: 1- to 3-pitch routes, some friction climbing, good beginner routes
- Great Head: high-grade sea cliff climbing, rappel access, know tides and weather
Many other small areas are used infrequently. Good bouldering can be found along the ocean between Sand Beach and Otter Cliffs, and near Blackwoods Campground.
Cycling
Portions of the paved motor roads and 45 miles of historic carriage roads are suitable for bicycling.
The Park Loop Road offers scenic views, but it is winding and narrow and may be congested with vehicles. The road up Cadillac Mountain is very steep and can be dangerous. Bicyclists should use caution when riding on any park road.
Winding through the heart of the park, the carriage roads have crushed rock surfaces perfect for bicycling. Cyclists share the carriage roads with horses and pedestrians. Bicycling is not permitted on hiking trails or on privately owned carriage roads.
Fishing
Freshwater and saltwater fishing opportunities abound in Acadia National Park and the surrounding area. Lakes and ponds can have several species of freshwater game fish, including trout, landlocked salmon, smallmouth and largemouth bass, and other species. Ocean species include mackerel, bluefish, and striped bass.
The freshwater fishing season in Maine is generally April through September. Check the State of Maine Open Water Fishing Regulations for exact dates.
During July and August, trout and salmon are found deep in the cooler waters of lakes and ponds on Mount Desert Island. Special fishing gear, such as lead core line or a down-rigger, will greatly increase chances of hooking a salmon or trout in the summer. In the cooler seasons, trout and salmon can be caught readily using common methods. Warm-water species can be caught throughout the season using common methods.
Hiking
Acadia is a hiker's paradise. Within the park, 125 miles of trails offer choices for all abilities and interests. From flat rambles across meadows to challenging climbs up iron rungs, you can find it here. Terrain varies from rugged shoreline and deep woods to open mountain summits with views of the ocean and outer islands. For those who prefer more level footing, 45 miles of carriage roads are excellent for walking.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
Forty-five miles of carriage roads offer the perfect setting for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Ski tracks are sometimes laid down by volunteers on sections of the carriage roads when snowfall exceeds four inches. Skiing on hiking trails is not recommended because of the uneven and steep nature of trails, ice falls blocking the path, and trail routes obscured by snow.
You may also cross-country ski or snowshoe on unplowed park roads. Be careful, as snowmobiles are also permitted to use most of these unplowed park roads. Please do not snowshoe or allow dogs to walk in cross-country ski tracks. Dogs must be on a leash six feet or shorter.
Ski equipment and rentals are available in local communities; chambers of commerce can provide the names of outfitters.
Directions
Direct flights from Boston's Logan Airport land at the Hancock County Airport, located 10 miles from Acadia National Park. National airlines serve the Bangor International Airport, about 1 hour from the park. Car rentals are available at both airports.
Acadia National Park is located approximately six hours north of Boston. From Boston take I-95 north to Augusta, Maine; from Augusta take Route 3 east to Ellsworth and on to Mount Desert Island or take I-95 north to Bangor, Maine; from Bangor take Route 1A east to Ellsworth; from Ellsworth take Route 3 to Mount Desert Island.
Concord Trailways and Vermont Transit offer service between Boston's Logan Airport and Bangor. Vermont Transit operates between Bangor and Bar Harbor during the summer months.
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