There is a reason Acadia is called the ‘Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast.’ It’s one of the few places in America where you can hike a granite peak in the morning and be eating a fresh lobster roll on a rocky beach by noon. Because navigating this coastal wonderland requires a bit of strategy, I’ve put together this comprehensive Acadia National Park Guide to help you master the ‘iron rung’ trails, secure your sunrise reservations, and find the best popovers in Maine.
Acadia At A Glance
| Location | Mount Desert Island, Maine (Bar Harbor) |
| Reservations | Required for Cadillac Summit Road (May 20 – Oct 25) |
| US Resident Fee | $35 per vehicle (or America the Beautiful Pass) |
| International Fee | $100 surcharge per person (Aged 16+) + Entry Fee* |
| Best Time | September to early October (Peak foliage & no bugs) |
| Cell Service | Reliable in Bar Harbor; very spotty on the South Shore |
| Pro Tip | Use the free Island Explorer Shuttle to bypass parking stress |
The Vibe Check
Let’s see if this Acadia National Park Guide passes your vibe check! It’s an incredible park for those who have an affinity for rugged mountains and the serene sea.
- The Energy: Preppy, coastal, and classic. It feels like a mix of rugged wilderness and a high-end New England summer colony.
- The Sights: Jagged pink granite shorelines, dense spruce-fir forests, and historic “Carriage Roads” that feel like they belong in a period drama.
- The Challenge: Congestion. Acadia is small but mighty. Navigating the one-way Park Loop Road and finding parking at Jordan Pond requires the patience of a saint or a very early alarm clock.
- Perfect For: Hikers who love technical climbs, photographers chasing the first light of day, and anyone who loves a salty sea breeze with their mountain air.
If it passed your vibe check, this Acadia National Park Guide is what you need to start planning your dream adventure. We’ll be sharing two brief itinerary ideas, the top things to do, and where to stay and eat. Additionally, I’ll share my best insider tips, like where to view the best sunset, how to beat the crowds, and where to fuel up on the best lobster!
The Perfect Itinerary (1-Day vs. 3-Day)
Let’s learn how to visit Acadia National Park with whatever time you have available to you.
1 Day Acadia National Park Guide
You can see a lot of Acadia National Park in one day! Are you ready for a jam-packed itinerary covering all of the essentials? Because we have you covered…
- Arrive early and head to the 1.6-mile, 500-foot Beehive for sunrise! Not sure of the rungs and ladders? You can take the bowl trail up to still enjoy the incredible view.
- Return to the parking lot, but don’t move the car yet! Walk Ocean Path to Thunder Hole.
- Drive over to Jordan Pond for lunch, a pop-over is a must!
- After lunch, take the hike around Jordan Pond; looking for something more strenuous? Complete Jordan Pond and The Bubbles for epic island views.
- Stick around for sunset on Cadillac Mountain (**permit required**)
If you only have one day at the park, these are the WanderWithKT non-negotiables.
Want the full blog post on 24 hours in Acadia? Get it here.
Epic Acadia National Park Weekend Itinerary
Spending a long weekend in Acadia National Park? This itinerary is jam-packed, including amazing lobster eats, incredible hikes, and must-see viewpoints.
Day 1
- Get a permit for Cadillac Mountain.
- Drive up for sunset!
- Head to dinner in the iconic Bar Harbor.
Day 2
- Get an early start on the Beehive & then stroll down Ocean Path.
- Head to Jordan Pond for Popovers & a hike!
Top Things to Do in Acadia National Park
Here’s your Acadia National Park Guide to the best things to do while you’re visiting! Write your own incredible itinerary with the must-see locations within the park.
Best Hikes in Acadia
While Acadia has over 150 miles of trails, these three represent the absolute best of the park’s rugged coastline and vertical granite.
Precipice Trail
Acadia’s most “extreme” hike. This isn’t a walk; it’s a non-technical climb. You’ll scale the vertical face of Champlain Mountain using a series of iron rungs, ladders, and narrow granite ledges. It is exhilarating, physically demanding, and strictly for those with a stomach for heights.
- 2.7mi Length
- 1,000ft Elevation gain
- 2–3hr Estimated time
Need to Know: This trail is usually closed from March to August for Peregrine Falcon nesting.
Check the NPS alerts before you go!
The Beehive Trail
he “Little Brother” to the Precipice—shorter but equally thrilling.
If the Precipice is closed or looks too daunting, the Beehive is your go-to. It offers that same “edge of the world” feeling with iron rungs and steep granite steps, rewarding you with a famous aerial view of Sand Beach, but a little bit easier.
- 1.6mi Length
- 508ft Elevation gain
- 1-2hr Estimated Time
Ocean Path
All the scenery, none of the vertigo. This is probably the most famous walk in Maine. It’s a relatively flat, 4.4-mile round-trip path that follows the pink granite coastline. It connects the park’s biggest landmarks, including the crashing waves of Thunder Hole and the 110-foot sheer drop of Otter Cliff; have fun on the rocks, but stay safe!
- 4.1mi Length
- 337ft Elevation gain
- 2–3hr Estimated time
Scenic Drives and Overlooks
Acadia is designed for discovery from the driver’s seat. Whether you’re navigating the iconic Park Loop Road or venturing to the more quiet corners of the park, these spots offer maximum reward for minimal walking….
Here are the best scenic drives and overlooks for those who want the best with minimal walking:
1. Cadillac Mountain
- The Vibe: Standing on the roof of the Atlantic.
- The View: As the highest point on the U.S. East Coast, you get a 360-degree panorama of Frenchman Bay, Bar Harbor, and the scattered Porcupine Islands.
- Accessibility: Paved parking leads to a 0.3-mile paved loop trail at the summit. Most overlooks are connected by level, paved walks, but this one can be a bit janky.
Pro Tip: You must have a vehicle reservation to drive this road from May through October.
2. Schoodic Point
- The Vibe: Wild, raw, and far from the crowds.
- The View: Located on the only mainland section of the park, this point offers a front-row seat to massive waves crashing against dark volcanic rock. You can see the lighthouse at Winter Harbor and Mount Desert Island in the distance.
- Accessibility: You can drive right up to the rocky ledge. The parking area is level with the viewing spots, allowing you to see the surf right from your vehicle if you choose.
3. Jordan Pond Overlook
- The Vibe: The quintessential Acadia “Postcard View.”
- The View: While most people crowd the Jordan Pond House, a path from the North Lot offers a more direct, stunning perspective of the two rounded peaks known as “The Bubbles” reflecting in the crystal-clear water.
- Accessibility: Very short, level walk from the parking lot to the water’s edge. The eastern side of the pond path is also a flat, crushed-gravel surface suitable for many mobility aids.
4. Thunder Hole
- The Vibe: Nature’s most powerful sound system.
- The View: A small inlet carved into the rocks where, when the tides are right, waves crash in with a thunderous “boom” and a spray of water up to 40 feet high.
- Accessibility: There is a paved viewing platform located right next to the Park Loop Road. While there are stairs to go down closer to the water, the top platform is accessible and offers an excellent view (and sound) of the action.
5. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
- The Vibe: The classic Maine “Light and Sea” experience.
- The View: The most iconic lighthouse in the park, perched precariously on a jagged cliffside.
- Accessibility: There is a short, paved path from the parking lot to the front of the lighthouse. Note that the famous “cliffside” photo angle requires scrambling over boulders, but the paved path provides a safe and beautiful view of the tower itself (view below).
Driving Tip
The One-Way Rule: Most of the 27-mile Park Loop Road is one-way. If you miss a turn-off for a scenic overlook, you’ll have to drive the entire loop again to get back to it! Keep a park map (or the NPS App) handy to plan your stops in order.
Acadia Logistics: Where to Stay & Eat
Inside the Park: Rugged and Rustic
Acadia does not have any traditional hotels or lodges within the park boundaries. If you want to wake up inside the park, you’ll be sleeping under the stars.
National Park Campgrounds: There are three main campgrounds on Mount Desert Island: Blackwoods (closest to Bar Harbor), Seawall (the “quiet side”), and Schoodic Woods (on the mainland).
- Booking Window: Reservations open 6 months in advance on a rolling basis via Recreation.gov. For a July trip, you need to be at your computer in January.
Outside the Park: Gateway Towns
Bar Harbor (The Heart of the Action): This is where most visitors stay. It is filled with historic inns like The Inn on Mount Desert and the Ivy Manor Inn. You are steps away from the Island Explorer Shuttle hub and the best eats, shopping, and nightlife.
Southwest Harbor: Known as the “Quiet Side,” this town offers a more authentic, local feel. Check out The Claremont Hotel for an upscale, peaceful retreat with incredible views of Somes Sound.
Trenton: Located just before you cross the bridge onto the island. This is where you’ll find more “budget-friendly” motel and cabin options, as well as the famous lobster pounds. We stayed at Isleview Motel and Cottages and loved this quaint, quiet little stay just outside of the park.
Where to Eat: From Popovers to the Best Lobster in Maine
While you’re following this Acadia National Park Guide, make sure to leave room for the food—it’s as much a part of the culture as the granite peaks.
1. Jordan Pond House (Inside the Park)
The only restaurant inside the park. You must try the popovers with strawberry jam and tea.
- Pro Tip: Reservations are highly recommended; without one, wait times can exceed two hours in peak season.
- Hit the Cart: Quick carry out on the lawn! As long as you don’t mind the bees.
2. Geddy’s (Downtown Bar Harbor)
A Bar Harbor tradition for over 50 years! This lively, family-friendly spot is located right near the town pier.
- The Vibe: Fun, eclectic, and filled with historic memorabilia.
- Must-Try: Their wood-fired pizzas or the Geddy’s Signature Lobster Bake. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day on the Precipice Trail.
3. Stewman’s Lobster Pound (Waterfront Bar Harbor)
If you want that classic “lobster on the dock” feeling without leaving downtown, this is your spot.
- The Vibe: Authentic oceanfront dining with incredible harbor views.
- Must-Try: The “Down East” Lobster Experience, which includes clam chowder, mussels, a whole Maine lobster, and blueberry pie.
4. Beal’s Lobster Pier (Southwest Harbor)
Many locals and “in-the-know” travelers consider this the best lobster on Mount Desert Island. We had the best experience here and the most memorable meal of our whole trip!
- The Vibe: A true working lobster pier. You can watch the boats unload their catch while you eat.
- The View: Unbeatable sunset views over the harbor.
- Must-Try: Their Lobster Roll Sampler or a simple, perfectly steamed whole lobster. It is located on the “Quiet Side,” making it the perfect escape from the Bar Harbor crowds.
Acadia National Park: Your Top Questions Answered
1. I couldn’t get a Cadillac Mountain sunrise permit! Where else can I go?
While Cadillac is the most famous, it’s far from the only “epic” sunrise spot. For a stunning alternative, hike the Beech Mountain Trail to the historic fire tower. From the tower platform, you get a 360-degree view of the sun breaking over the Atlantic and illuminating Somes Sound. If you prefer to stay at sea level, Schoodic Point or the pink granite cliffs of Otter Point offer world-class sunrise views without the need for a reservation.
2. Is there really a new $100 fee for international visitors in 2026?
Yes. Starting January 1, 2026, Acadia is one of 11 “Surcharge Parks.” While the standard $35 vehicle fee remains for U.S. residents, international visitors (aged 16+) must pay a $100 per person surcharge. If you are visiting from abroad and plan to see more than two major parks (like Acadia, Zion, or Yosemite), your best move is to buy the $250 International Annual Pass to save money.
3. How do I get a popover at Jordan Pond without waiting for hours?
The “Popover Panic” is real! To avoid a 2-hour wait, make a reservation on OpenTable exactly 30 days in advance. If you can’t get a table, head to the “Carry Out” window at the back of the gift shop. You can grab your popovers and jam to-go and find a quiet rock along the shore of Jordan Pond to enjoy them with the same million-dollar view.
4. Is Acadia National Park dog friendly?
Unlike many parks that restrict pets to paved roads, Acadia allows leashed dogs on over 100 miles of hiking trails and all 45 miles of historic carriage roads. However, they are strictly prohibited on “ladder and rung” trails like the Precipice and Beehive for safety. Dogs are also welcome on the free Island Explorer shuttle (if well-behaved and leashed) and at three of the park’s campgrounds.
5. What is the best way to get around the park without a car?
In 2026, the Island Explorer Shuttle is your best friend. This free, propane-powered bus system has routes that connect Bar Harbor directly to the Visitor Center, Jordan Pond, and Sand Beach. It allows you to bypass the nightmare of full parking lots and lets you hike “point-to-point” (like starting at the Beehive and walking the Ocean Path) without having to circle back to your car.
KT’s Insider Tips
Get your popover and jam to go and take them on a hike around the pond or up to the Bubbles (in a backpack, of course). This gets you away from the crowds, provides even more dreamy views, and helps you escape the yellow jackets who want that sweet, sweet jam! If you do go this route, please be sure to pack all trash out with you. Do not leave anything on the trail.
Looking for a trail that is less busy but oh so much fun? The Beech Cliff Ladder Trail from Echo Lake Beach includes rungs and ladders without the crazy crowds of the Precipice or Beehive. Bonus Points for swimming in the clear, fresh water of Echo Lake after your hike.
Take full advantage of the Island Explorer Shuttle if you’re not an early bird. Parking areas often fill up by 8 AM in the busy summer months, but the Explorer Shuttle can get you to all of your trailheads without any hassle!
Conclusion
Acadia National Park is a place where the mountains don’t just meet the sea—they collide with it. Once you’ve felt the spray of the Atlantic at Thunder Hole and watched the first light of day hit the fire tower on Beech Mountain, you’ll realize that the “Crown Jewel” isn’t just a park; it’s a sensory experience that stays with you long after the lobster rolls are gone.
But with over 150 miles of trails weaving through jagged cliffs and quiet spruce forests, deciding where to lace up your boots can be the hardest part of your trip.
Ready to find your perfect path through the pines?
Check out my guide to the Best Trails in Acadia National Park, where I rank the top hikes from the adrenaline-pumping iron rungs of the Precipice to the peaceful, family-friendly loops around the Bubbles. Whether you’re a summit seeker or a coastal stroller, your next favorite view is waiting, and I have all the details in one spot!