Exploring the Beauty of Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a spectacular natural wonder located on the rugged coast of Maine. Established in 1919, it was the first national park east of the Mississippi River. Spanning nearly 50,000 acres, Acadia is home to granite peaks, woodland trails, sandy beaches, and pristine ponds. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the top sights and activities that draw over 3 million visitors to Acadia each year.

Scenic Highlights

Some of Acadia's most iconic landmarks include:

• Cadillac Mountain - At 1,530 feet, this is the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. It's a popular spot to watch the sunrise.

• Jordan Pond - This clear, spring-fed pond is ringed by forests and granite cliffs. You can rent a boat, take a relaxing stroll around the 3-mile loop trail, or enjoy a meal at the Jordan Pond House restaurant.

Outdoor Activities

With over 120 miles of hiking trails, Acadia offers plenty of opportunities to explore the outdoors:

• Take in ocean vistas along the shoreline Cliff Walk.
• Climb the Beehive Trail for panoramic views from open granite ledges.
• Hike through conifer forests and across granite bridges on the Acadia Mountain Trail.

• Bike the scenic 45-mile carriage road system originally designed by John D. Rockefeller, Jr.
• Paddle a kayak or canoe on Echo Lake, Jordan Pond, or other inland waters.
• Go rock climbing on the park's granite cliffs and outcroppings. Permits required.

Historic Sites

In addition to natural beauty, Acadia also boasts a number of historic and cultural attractions:

• Bass Harbor Head Light - This 1858 lighthouse sits perched on the rocky coast.

• Isle au Haut - Accessible by mailboat, this remote island offers a glimpse into early 20th century life in coastal Maine.
• Abbe Museum - Explore the history and culture of Maine's Native American tribes at this museum in Bar Harbor village.

Plan Your Visit

Acadia National Park is open year-round, though some roads and facilities are closed in winter. Summer is peak season.

• Stop by the Hulls Cove Visitor Center to get oriented and learn about park programs.
• Free shuttle buses run throughout Mount Desert Island to ease traffic congestion.
• Park entrance fees are $30 per vehicle ($25 in winter) and are valid for 7 days.
• Reserve campsites in advance for Blackwoods, Seawall, or Schoodic Woods campgrounds.

With its spectacular scenery, trails, historic sites, and coastal activities, Acadia National Park offers an abundance of ways to experience the natural beauty of Maine's dramatic coastline.