Acadia National Park is an American national park located along the mid-section of the Maine coast, southwest of Bar Harbor. The park preserves about half of Mount Desert Island, part of the Isle au Haut, the tip of the Schoodic Peninsula, and portions of 16 smaller outlying islands. The park preserves the natural beauty of the rocky headlands, including the highest mountains along the Atlantic coast. The park boasts a glaciated coastal and island landscape, an abundance of habitats, a high level of biodiversity, clean air and water, and a rich cultural heritage.
The park contains the tallest mountain on the Atlantic Coast of the United States (Cadillac Mountain), exposed granite domes, glacial erratics, U-shaped valleys, and cobble beaches. Its mountains, lakes, streams, wetlands, forests, meadows, and coastlines contribute to a diversity of plants and animals. Weaved into this landscape is a historic carriage road system financed by John D. Rockefeller Jr.. In total, it encompasses 49,075 acres (76.7 sq mi; 198.6 km2) as of 2017.
Acadia has a rich human history, dating back more than 10,000 years ago with the Wabanaki people. The 17th century brought fur traders and other European explorers, while the 19th century saw an influx of summer visitors, then wealthy families. Many conservation-minded citizens, among them George B. Dorr (the "Father of Acadia National Park"), worked to establish this first national park east of the Mississippi River and the only one in the Northeastern United States. Acadia was initially designated Sieur de Monts National Monument by proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson in 1916, then renamed and redesignated Lafayette National Park in 1919. The park was renamed Acadia National Park in 1929.
Recreational activities from spring through autumn include car and bus touring along the park's paved loop road; hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding on carriage roads (motor vehicles are prohibited); rock climbing; kayaking and canoeing on lakes and ponds; swimming at Sand Beach and Echo Lake; sea kayaking and guided boat tours on the ocean; and various ranger-led programs. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Two campgrounds are located on Mount Desert Island, another campground is on the Schoodic Peninsula, and five lean-to sites are on Isle au Haut. The main visitor center is at Hulls Cove, northwest of Bar Harbor. More than 3.4 million people visited the park in 2019.
This year was my second time at Acadia. The park is absolutely beautiful and there is so much to see. Parking can be a little difficult. The park is incredible though and definitely a must see!
The most breath taking experience. Takes the cake for the best part of my Maine trip. Wear comfortable shoes and wear sunscreen if you’re going in the summer. Otherwise just bring a camera because the whole experience is so scenic. Parking was $30 flat rate for the entire park. Lots of Parking throughout the park but it does get really busy. Book ahead for Cadillac mountain it’s by reservation only.
My entire families new favorite vacation spot. Something new to do every day every time w go. So many great trails for hiking or biking. And can't forget the awesome food!!
Its a beautiful outdoor adventure spot in Maine. With all the natural beauty and plenty of sunset points in Bar Harbor Main, Acadia National Park is one of my favorite national parks. Especially with the fall colors ontourage you would see beautiful colors and water ways. The natural ecosystems around are worth the trip.
This place was absolutely stunning and one of the best parks I’ve visited. I felt like I was in the Galapagos and was blown away by the natural geography of the park. Cadillac Mountain and the Gorham Mountain Trail are an absolute must! I also highly recommend completing the scenic drive. This park may be isolated but is worth it!
We have traveled to many places near and far. This was easily one of the most beautiful places. Mountains meet oceans and rivers. Incredible vistas from all directions!! A must see !
Incredible sights, incredible heights! This park is a blast and super easy to navigate. Great trail markings and signage, although difficulty of the trails may be an issue for some. I would highly suggest getting some sort of guide book or talking to a NPS worker it volunteer, especially if you are worried about difficulty.
One of the most beautiful & serene locations on planet earth. Very busy during peak hours & season. Park is open 24 hrs/day, & is perhaps most beautiful from dusk until dawn. Reservations mandatory for Cadillac Mountain, 1st place can see sunrise in USA. Nice sandy beaches and clean water...with some seaweed, but totally swimmable Great abundance of hiking trails with numerous vistas.