Maine was one of my last five states to visit in the United States and I regret taking so long. I was very excited to cross Acadia National Park off my list, and bask in Maine’s beauty. After visiting, this became my absolutely favorite national park on the east coast, sorry Shenandoah.
Acadia National Park Information
Acadia National Park is one of the top ten most visited National Parks in the US. Situated on Mount Desert Island, and several nearby islands, that gets over 3.5 million visits a year. Acadia has something for everything with 27miles of roads to drive on, 158 miles of hiking trails, and 45 miles of dirt roads for animal riding. The diverse scenery is composed of course pink granite that has the famous rugged coastlines and valleys you’ve seen to make you want to visit immediately.
Acadia National Park Things to Do
Explore Bar Harbor
The Maine port town ambiance at its finest. The gateway to Acadia, Bar Harbor which is a beautiful Maine seashore community alive with cobblestone roads, fisherman boats and marinas, old-time shops, and great food.
Drive the Park Loop
Want a more casual experience? Take a drive around the 27mile main park loop to enjoy the rugged Maine coastline. Stretch your legs at Sand Beach or Thunder Hole
Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain
Not so much as a hike but more of a must-do. Cadillac Mountain is the highest point on the Atlantic Seaboard which means you can be one of the first people to welcome the sunrise in the U.S. During peak season, you will need a vehicle reservation.
Beehive Hike
Easily the most popular hike, but with a good reason. One of the more thrilling hikes since these routes are exposed, meaning you will have to use iron rungs to cross over narrow paths on the side of the mountain. Don’t look down!
Jordan Pond Loop Trail
Take a walk around Jordan Pond, which is a rather easy and accessible hike around Jordan Pond. This pond provides mirror-calm waters and is encapsulated in the lush mountains.
The Perpendicular Trail
Located on the not as popular western side, this is a pretty strenuous hike that consists of mostly stairs for 900+ elevation gain. The descent is along Razorback’s rock ridge is a scramble down with great views the way down.
Flying Mountain Trail
Also located on the not as popular western side, this hike was recommended to me by a few locals.