Acadia National Park Travel Guide
Your complete Acadia National Park Travel Guide for hiking, camping, lodging, food, family fun, pet services, shops, and local activities.
Contents
Hiking in Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is a hiker’s paradise, offering over 120 miles of scenic trails that wind through rugged coastline, granite peaks, quiet forests, and serene lakes. Whether you’re looking for a short, family-friendly stroll or a challenging climb with sweeping views, there’s a trail for every skill level.
Beehive Trail – A thrilling climb featuring steep granite ledges and iron rungs that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Sand Beach and the surrounding coastline. Not recommended for those with a fear of heights, but a spectacular challenge for adventurous hikers.
Length: 1.4 miles loop
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Strenuous
More Info
Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail – A scenic, gradual ascent to the tallest peak on the U.S. Atlantic coast, offering sweeping views of Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay, and the Cranberry Islands. Popular for sunrise hikes and fall foliage views.
Length: 7.1 miles round trip
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
More Info
Cadillac Summit Loop – An easy, paved path around the summit of Cadillac Mountain, providing 360-degree panoramic views and interpretive signs about the park’s geology and history.
Length: 0.3 miles loop
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
More Info
Gorham Mountain Trail – A moderate hike that delivers stunning views of the coastline, Sand Beach, and the Beehive from a less exposed route than the Beehive Trail.
Length: 3.5 miles round trip
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
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Great Head Trail – A coastal loop trail with spectacular views of the rocky shoreline, crashing waves, and access to Sand Beach. Known for its wildflowers in spring and early summer.
Length: 1.4 miles loop
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
More Info
Jordan Pond Path – A flat trail circling the pristine Jordan Pond, offering iconic views of the Bubbles and crystal-clear water. Boardwalk sections protect fragile wetlands along the route.
Length: 3.5 miles loop
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Easy
More Info
Ocean Path – A mostly flat trail running along the Park Loop Road, connecting Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Otter Cliff with endless ocean views.
Length: 4.4 miles round trip
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Easy
More Info
Penobscot & Sargent Mountains via Jordan Pond House – A challenging 6–7 mile loop from Jordan Pond House, combining steep granite trails, iron rungs, and panoramic summit views of Acadia’s mountains, valleys, and coastline.
Length: 6–7 miles loop
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Strenuous
More Info
Precipice Trail – A challenging and exhilarating climb up the steep cliffs of Champlain Mountain, featuring iron rungs, ladders, and narrow ledges. Offers incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding islands.
Length: 2.5 miles loop
Type: Loop
Difficulty: Strenuous
More Info
South Bubble Trail – A short but steep climb to South Bubble, famous for Bubble Rock, a massive glacial erratic perched on the cliff’s edge with views over Jordan Pond.
Length: 1.0 mile round trip
Type: Out-and-back
Difficulty: Moderate
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Backpacking in Acadia National Park
Duck Harbor Campground (Isle au Haut) – Remote primitive campsites accessible only by boat; part of Acadia but offers a backcountry feel.
Type: Primitive
Facilities: Lean-to shelters, pit toilets, hand pump; no vehicles.
Fee: See Recreation.gov (seasonal).
Reservations
More Info
Appalachian Trail – 100 Mile Wilderness – Legendary remote section of the AT in northern Maine; challenging, scenic, and uncrowded.
Type: Backpacking Trail
Facilities: Lean-tos and primitive campsites; no services.
Fee: Free (first-come).
Reservations: None
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Baxter State Park – Home to Mount Katahdin; network of multi-day routes and remote lean-tos.
Type: Backpacking Trail & Campsites
Facilities: Lean-tos, tent sites; pit toilets; no running water.
Fee: Varies by site.
Reservations
More Info
Bigelow Preserve Public Reserved Land – Remote mountain range on the Appalachian Trail; multiple day hikes and campsites.
Type: Backpacking Trail & Campsites
Facilities: Primitive campsites; no services.
Fee: Free
Reservations: None
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Grafton Loop Trail – 38-mile loop in western Maine’s Mahoosuc Range; diverse terrain and panoramic views.
Type: Backpacking Loop
Facilities: Designated tent sites and shelters; no services.
Fee: Free
Reservations: None
More Info
Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land – Coastal backpacking along rugged cliffs with primitive campsites.
Type: Backpacking Trail
Facilities: Primitive campsites; no services.
Fee: Free
Reservations: None
More Info
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument – Emerging wilderness area with remote camping along backcountry roads and trails.
Type: Backpacking & Primitive Camping
Facilities: Primitive campsites; no potable water.
Fee: Free
Reservations
More Info
Camping in Acadia National Park
Camping in Acadia National Park offers a chance to immerse yourself in the park’s dramatic coastal scenery, from the wave-carved granite cliffs of Mount Desert Island to the quiet forests of the Schoodic Peninsula. Whether you prefer a bustling campground close to Bar Harbor or a remote lean-to site accessible only by boat, Acadia provides options for every type of camper.
Type: Tent & RV (no hookups)
Facilities: Potable water, flush toilets, dump station; showers nearby (concession)
Fee: $30 per night
Reservation Link
More Info
Seawall Campground – A quieter, more relaxed alternative on Acadia’s “Quiet Side,” close to Bass Harbor Head Light and less-crowded trailheads. Loops wind through coastal forest, and the rocky shoreline is a short stroll away for sunset watching and tidepooling.
Type: Tent & RV (no hookups)
Facilities: Potable water, flush toilets, dump station; coin showers and laundry nearby (concession)
Fee: $30 per night
Reservation Link
More Info
Schoodic Woods Campground – Modern and peaceful on the Schoodic Peninsula (mainland portion of Acadia). Sites are well-spaced, some with electric, and you’re steps from scenic coastal loops, bike paths, and dramatic surf at Schoodic Point.
Type: Tent & RV (some electric hookups)
Facilities: Potable water, flush toilets, dump station; some electric sites
Fee: $22–$36 per night
Reservation Link
More Info
Duck Harbor Lean-to Shelters (Isle au Haut) – A true backcountry-style experience: five rustic lean-tos tucked into a remote island forest, reachable only by boat (Isle au Haut mailboat). Expect quiet trails, starry skies, and minimal amenities.
Type: Primitive lean-to shelters
Facilities: Composting toilets, hand-pump water; no electricity
Fee: $25 per night
Reservation Link
More Info
Camping outside Acadia National Park
Type: Tent, RV, Yurts, Cabins
Facilities: Potable water, restrooms, electric hookups, heated pool, camp store, playground, pet-friendly
Fee: $40–$75 per night
Reservation Link
Bar Harbor Campground – Just outside the park boundary, with full hookups, clean facilities, and a swimming pool. A convenient option for families and RV travelers wanting quick access to Acadia’s trailheads and visitor centers.
Type: Tent, RV, Cabins
Facilities: Full hookups, restrooms/showers, pool, general store
Fee: $60–$81 per night
Reservation Link
KOA Bar Harbor / Oceanside – A full-service KOA near the park entrance, with spacious RV sites, cabins, and amenities like Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, meeting rooms, and easy oceanfront access for sunset views.
Type: Tent, RV (full hookups), Cabins
Facilities: Full hookups, pool, store, restrooms/showers
Fee: $60–$90 per night
Reservation Link
Hadley’s Point Campground – Close to Bar Harbor with ferry access to Isle au Haut, this family-friendly site offers tent, RV, and cabin options plus a heated outdoor pool—perfect as a convenient base camp for Acadia visitors.
Type: Tent, RV, Cabins
Facilities: Heated pool, restrooms, laundry, picnic areas
Fee: $29–$90 per night
Reservation Link
Mount Desert Campground – Right in the heart of Mount Desert Island, this scenic campground features waterfront and wooded sites, hot showers, a snack shop (“The Gathering Place”), Wi-Fi, and easy access to Acadia’s carriage roads and trailheads. Charming and convenient.
Type: Tent platforms, RV (limited), wooded sites
Facilities: Hot showers, flush toilets, camp store, Wi-Fi, kayak rentals, electric hookups
Fee: $55–$85 per night
Reservation Link
Quarry Ledge Campground – Offers rustic cabins, tent platforms, and RV sites overlooking Somes Sound. Features a heated pool, private boat dock, and bathhouses—great mix of comfort and solitude minutes from Bar Harbor.
Type: Tent, RV, Cabins
Facilities: Heated pool, bathhouses, boat dock, shaded wooded sites
Fee: Around $64 per night
Reservation Link
Smuggler’s Den Campground – Located in Southwest Harbor, this family-run site has tent, RV, and cabin rentals and offers an outdoor pool, playground, laundry, and gets you onto the Island Explorer bus route quickly—perfect for traveling families.
Type: Tent, Pop-up, RV, Cabins
Facilities: Heated pool, playground, clean bathhouses, laundry, Island Explorer bus access
Fee: $35–$80 per night
Reservation Link
Searsport Shores Ocean Campground – Located about an hour south of the park, this oceanfront campground on Penobscot Bay is perfect for families, with beach access and group-friendly facilities. (Note: slightly over 20 miles, but still a popular regional option.)
Type: Tent, RV, Group Sites
Facilities: Ocean access, family-friendly amenities
Fee: $45–$120 per night
Reservation Link
Quietside Camping – Various private and glamping-style sites scattered around the “Quiet Side” of MDI, offering yurts, cabins, or rustic platforms with access to trails and shoreline—great for those seeking unique lodging near Acadia.
Type: Yurts, Cabins, Platforms, Tent, RV
Facilities: Varies (often potable water, some with glampsite comforts)
Fee: $27–$90 per night
Reservation Link
Places to Eat
Thurston’s Lobster Pound (Bernard) – Fisherman-owned dockside lobster spot with harbor views; a quintessential Maine experience in a laid-back setting.
Type: Lobster Pound (Seafood)
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Side Street Cafe (Bar Harbor) – Family-run restaurant known for its creative mac & cheese, tacos, and hearty sandwiches in a casual, friendly atmosphere.
Type: American/Comfort
Cost: $$
Link
Havana (Bar Harbor) – Upscale dining blending New American and Latin flavors; features a seasonal menu with an award-winning wine list.
Type: Upscale American with Latin Flair
Cost: $$$–$$$$
Link
The Travelin’ Lobster (Bar Harbor) – Casual seafood shack serving fresh lobster rolls, seafood trays, and fisherman-run specialties.
Type: Seafood/Shack
Cost: $$
Link
Galyn’s (Bar Harbor) – Elegant yet relaxed restaurant offering local seafood, steaks, and pasta, with views of Frenchman Bay.
Type: Seafood/Steakhouse
Cost: $$$
Link
Beal’s Lobster Pier (Southwest Harbor) – Working lobster pier where you can watch the day’s catch being unloaded while enjoying your meal.
Type: Lobster Pound/Seafood
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Cafe This Way (Bar Harbor) – Quirky, artsy cafe serving creative breakfast and dinner options with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Type: American/Eclectic
Cost: $$
Link
McKay’s Public House (Bar Harbor) – Cozy pub serving upscale comfort food, seafood, and vegetarian dishes in a historic building.
Type: Gastropub/American
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Geddy’s (Bar Harbor) – Colorful, family-friendly spot with casual seafood, pizzas, and burgers; lively atmosphere and local art.
Type: American/Seafood
Cost: $$
Link
2 Restaurant & Inn (Bar Harbor) – Popular breakfast and brunch spot featuring fresh-baked goods, omelets, and Maine blueberries.
Type: Breakfast/Brunch
Cost: $$
Link
Jordan Pond House Restaurant (Acadia NP) – Historic park restaurant famous for popovers, tea, and mountain views across Jordan Pond.
Type: American/Tea House
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Peekytoe Provisions (Bar Harbor) – Seafood market and cafe serving fresh fish tacos, sandwiches, and daily catches in a casual setting.
Type: Seafood Market/Cafe
Cost: $$
Link
Places to Stay
Bar Harbor Inn (Hotel) – Waterfront icon in downtown Bar Harbor with spa services and on-site dining, offering stunning views of Frenchman Bay.
Type: Hotel
Cost: $$–$$$$
Link
Atlantic Oceanside Hotel (Hotel/Resort) – Oceanfront property with balconies in most rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, and close proximity to Acadia’s entrance.
Type: Hotel/Resort
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Bar Harbor Grand Hotel (Hotel) – Elegant, classic-style hotel located downtown, within walking distance of shops, dining, and the harbor.
Type: Hotel
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Bar Harbor Motel (Motel) – Family-friendly lodging with direct access to the park’s carriage roads and a free Island Explorer bus stop.
Type: Motel
Cost: $$
Link
Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina (Hotel) – Upscale waterfront hotel featuring a full-service spa, marina, and fine dining with bay views.
Type: Hotel
Cost: $$$–$$$$
Link
Balance Rock Inn (Hotel/B&B) – Historic boutique inn with refined rooms, ocean views, and landscaped gardens, steps from the shore path.
Type: Boutique Hotel/B&B
Cost: $$$–$$$$
Link
Acadia Hotel – Downtown (Hotel) – Centrally located boutique hotel within walking distance to Bar Harbor restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Type: Boutique Hotel
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Eden Village Motel & Cottages (Motel/Cottages) – Quiet lodging on landscaped grounds with private cottages and easy driving distance to the park.
Type: Motel/Cottages
Cost: $$
Link
Highbrook Motel (Motel) – Retro-style motel known for its cleanliness, friendly service, and proximity to downtown Bar Harbor.
Type: Motel
Cost: $$
Link
Primrose Inn (B&B) – Charming bed-and-breakfast in a Victorian home with gourmet breakfasts and warm hospitality.
Type: Bed & Breakfast
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Around Town
Beyond the trails, Acadia’s gateway towns offer plenty to do. Enjoy whale-watching cruises, lighthouse tours, or a sunset sail aboard a historic schooner. Rent a bike or e-bike to explore the 45 miles of scenic carriage roads, or join a guided sea-kayak trip along the rocky coast. Families can try hands-on marine tours or stroll the Shore Path, while history buffs visit the Abbe Museum for cultural exhibits.
Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. – Whale, puffin, lighthouse & nature cruises on the Gulf of Maine with naturalist narration and roomy high-speed catamarans.
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Coastal Kayaking Tours – Guided sea-kayak tours along Acadia’s rugged shoreline; sunrise, sunset, and wildlife-focused paddles available (rentals, too).
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Acadia Bike (Rentals & E-Bikes) – Quality bike and e-bike rentals with kid trailers; perfect for exploring the 45 miles of car-free carriage roads.
Cost: $–$$ (daily rentals)
Link
Acadia Mountain Guides Climbing School – AMGA-accredited rock climbing for beginners to experts on Acadia’s pink granite sea cliffs and crags.
Cost: $$–$$$ (by duration/group size)
Link
Downeast Windjammer – Schooner Margaret Todd – Classic 4-masted schooner sails on Frenchman Bay; sunset cruises often feature live folk music.
Cost: $$
Link
Oli’s Trolley Tours – Narrated trolley tours of Bar Harbor and Acadia highlights—great overview with photo stops and local history.
Cost: $$
Link
Acadia by Carriage – Historic horse-drawn carriage tours on Rockefeller’s carriage roads—scenic and unique to Acadia.
Cost: $$–$$$ (by route/length)
Link
Diver Ed’s Dive-In Theater (Boat Trip) – Interactive family cruise where divers bring up sea creatures to an onboard touch tank; educational and fun.
Cost: $$
Link
Abbe Museum (Bar Harbor) – Smithsonian-affiliated museum celebrating Wabanaki art, history, and culture; engaging exhibits right downtown.
Cost: $–$$
Link
Asticou Azalea Garden (Northeast Harbor) – Tranquil Japanese-inspired garden with seasonal blooms, stone paths, and reflective ponds—serene photo spot.
Cost: $ (donation suggested)
Link
Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse – Iconic cliff-top lighthouse with classic postcard views; best at golden hour. Short path to the overlook and stairs to the rocks.
Cost: Free (parking limited)
Link
Acadia Air Tours (Scenic Flights) – Aerial tours by small plane or biplane over Mount Desert Island, Cadillac Mountain, and the Porcupine Islands.
Cost: $$$ (by flight duration)
Link
For the Kids
Acadia offers plenty of family-friendly adventures for younger visitors. Kids can earn a Junior Ranger badge by completing activities and joining ranger-led programs during the season. The park’s 45 miles of car-free carriage roads are perfect for safe biking, with trailers allowed and Class-1 e-bikes permitted. Easy coastal walks, tidepool exploration, and interactive exhibits at nearby nature centers make it easy to keep the little ones engaged and inspired by the outdoors.
Junior Ranger Program – Pick up a booklet, complete fun activities, and join ranger-led programs to earn a badge. Educational and memorable.
Cost: Free
Link
Bike the Carriage Roads – Enjoy 45 miles of safe, car-free gravel roads ideal for family bike outings. Trailers welcome; Class-1 e-bikes permitted.
Cost: Free (rentals extra)
Link
Seashore Tidepooling – Explore sand beach and shoreline tidepools with starfish, crabs, and scallops—great for curious explorers.
Cost: Free
Link
Kite Flying at Sand Beach – Scenic seaside spot with coastal breezes—perfect for kite-flying and playful downtime.
Cost: Free (kite extra)
Link
Ranger-Led Family Programs – Seasonal guided hikes, nature walks, and campfire talks designed especially for families with children.
Cost: Free
Link
Beach Picnic at Echo Lake or Great Meadow – Grassy lakeside areas perfect for family picnics, wading, and relaxed fun.
Cost: Free (food extra)
Link
Dorr Museum of Natural History (Bar Harbor) – Small, hands-on natural history museum featuring wildlife dioramas and an interactive tide-pool touch tank.
Cost: Donation-based
Link
The Oceanarium & Education Center – Hands-on marine museum with touch tanks, habitat displays, and a 29-foot indoor lobster boat.
Cost: $ (moderate)
Link
Wild Acadia Funzone (Trenton) – Outdoor play zone with water slides, trampolines, climbing wall, ropes course, and mini-golf.
Cost: $$ (day pass)
Link
Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf – Pirate-themed mini-golf course with waterfalls, caves, and a life-sized pirate ship—fun for all ages.
Cost: $$
Link
For the Pets
Acadia and the surrounding coastal towns are welcoming to four-legged travelers, offering plenty of services and amenities to keep pets happy and healthy during your visit. From full-service veterinary care and grooming to well-stocked pet supply shops and local dog parks, there are options for every need. Many area trails, carriage roads, and even some boat tours are pet-friendly—just remember to keep your furry companion leashed where required. Whether you’re boarding your dog for a day trip or picking up a locally made collar, pet lovers will find this region easy to explore together.
Acadia Veterinary Hospital (Bar Harbor) – Full-service small-animal veterinary care including wellness exams, diagnostics, and emergency services.
Type: Veterinary Clinic
Cost: $$ (varies by service)
Link
Dogs at Acadia Woods (Bar Harbor) – Boarding, day-boarding, and grooming in a quiet wooded setting; reservations recommended.
Type: Boarding & Grooming
Cost: $$ (per night or per service)
Link
Gifts & Keepsakes
From handcrafted mementos to locally made treasures, Acadia’s gift and souvenir scene offers something for every visitor. Start with our own Boondockers Cafe Etsy store, featuring unique gifts inspired by Acadia and all 63 U.S. National Parks. Around town, you’ll find charming bookstores, artisan shops, and classic souvenir stops where every purchase can bring back a memory of your trip. Whether you’re looking for locally crafted jewelry, park-themed apparel, or specialty food items, the area’s shops make it easy to bring a piece of your adventure home—or find the perfect gift for a fellow nature lover.
Boondockers Cafe (Online/Etsy) – Handcrafted National Park–inspired gifts, stickers, coasters, and decor featuring Acadia and all 63 U.S. National Parks.
Type: Online / Handmade Goods
Cost: $–$$$
Link
Park Stores (Official NPS Partner) – Visitor center shops with park-branded apparel, maps, books, and souvenirs; purchases support Acadia.
Type: Visitor Center Gift Shop
Cost: $–$$$
Cool As A Moose (Bar Harbor) – Bright, fun shop for Acadia apparel, hats, mugs, and souvenir gear; a downtown staple.
Type: Apparel & Souvenirs
Cost: $–$$
Link
Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shops (Bar Harbor) – Maine’s oldest bookstore; great for regional books, maps, journals, cards, and gifts.
Type: Bookstore & Gifts
Cost: $–$$
Link
The Rock & Art Shop (Bar Harbor) – Minerals, fossils, plants, and quirky design goods—perfect science-meets-souvenir stop.
Type: Curiosity / Gift Shop
Cost: $–$$$
Link
Island Artisans (Bar Harbor) – Artist cooperative showcasing jewelry, pottery, woodwork, and textiles made by local makers.
Type: Artisan Cooperative
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Acadia Country Store (Bar Harbor) – Old-time candy, blueberry jams, T-shirts, ornaments, and Acadia-themed gifts in a nostalgic setting.
Type: Specialty Foods & Souvenirs
Cost: $–$$
FB Link
Bar Harbor Tea Company – Maine-inspired loose-leaf teas and gift tins (think Wild Blueberry), plus cute accessories for tea lovers.
Type: Tea & Specialty Foods
Cost: $–$$
Link
Sea Bags (Bar Harbor) – Stylish totes and accessories made from recycled sails—nautical, durable, and very Maine.
Type: Handcrafted Bags & Accessories
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Fiore Artisan Olive Oils & Vinegars (Bar Harbor) – Tasting room with infused olive oils and balsamic vinegars—great edible gifts to take home.
Type: Specialty Food Shop
Cost: $–$$$
Link
Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium (Bar Harbor) – Classic sweets shop for handmade chocolates, candies, and quirky ice creams (yes, lobster ice cream!).
Type: Candy & Ice Cream Shop
Cost: $–$$
Link
Christmas Spirit Shop (Bar Harbor) – Year-round holiday store with Maine and Acadia ornaments, coastal décor, and personalized keepsakes.
Type: Holiday & Ornament Shop
Cost: $–$$
Link
Acadia National Park Travel Guide - Trip Planning Tips
Planning a visit to Acadia is all about timing, preparation, and making the most of the park’s unique seasonal offerings. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and fewer crowds, summer offers warm days and long daylight hours, fall dazzles with brilliant foliage, and winter transforms the carriage roads into a snowy playground for cross-country skiing. Visitors should secure lodging and campground reservations well in advance during peak months, check for vehicle reservation requirements for Cadillac Mountain, and take advantage of the free Island Explorer shuttle to navigate busy areas without parking stress. With thoughtful planning, you can experience Acadia’s landscapes, wildlife, and coastal charm at their very best.
Best Time to Visit – Late spring through early fall offers the best weather for exploring Acadia. July and August are peak tourist months with warm temperatures, but also the most crowds. September and early October bring fewer visitors, crisp air, and spectacular fall foliage.
Tip: Reserve accommodations early if visiting in peak season.
Entrance Fee – A 7-day vehicle pass costs $35, motorcycle $30, and individual (pedestrian/bicycle) $20. Annual Acadia passes are available for $70.
Tip: Passes can be purchased online or at park entrance stations.
Getting Around – The Island Explorer shuttle system operates late June through mid-October, connecting key park sites, trailheads, and Bar Harbor. Private vehicles are allowed, but parking can be limited at popular spots.
Tip: Use the shuttles to avoid parking hassles.
Weather – Summers are mild with highs in the 70s°F (21–26°C), while spring and fall can be cooler, especially near the coast. Fog and light rain are common, so layers are recommended.
Tip: Bring a rain jacket and sturdy footwear for trail conditions.
Pets – Acadia is one of the most pet-friendly national parks, allowing leashed pets on 100+ miles of hiking trails and carriage roads. Some beaches and certain trails are restricted during summer.
Tip: Check seasonal pet regulations before your trip.
Local Events
Acadia’s surrounding communities, especially Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island, host a variety of recurring events that bring visitors back year after year. Summer kicks off with the Bar Harbor Music Festival, a month-long series of classical, jazz, and chamber performances. In August, the annual Maine Lobster Festival celebrates the state’s iconic crustacean with fresh catches, cooking contests, and harborfront entertainment. Fall draws leaf-peepers for Acadia’s Night Sky Festival, where astronomy programs and stargazing sessions highlight the region’s dark skies. Winter offers the Acadia Winter Festival, featuring snowshoe treks, winter photography workshops, and local craft fairs. These annual traditions give travelers another reason to plan their visit around the seasons.
Season: August
Location: Winter Harbor
Cost: Varies
FB Link
Bar Harbor Music Festival – Multi-week classical and jazz performances at venues around town.
Season: July
Location: Bar Harbor
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Mount Desert Island Marathon – Scenic race through coastal villages and Acadia’s foliage.
Season: October
Location: Bar Harbor → Southwest Harbor
Cost: $$
Link
Southwest Harbor Flamingo Festival – Community parade, games, crafts, and seafood feasts.
Season: July
Location: Southwest Harbor
Cost: Free–$
Link
Bar Harbor Fine Arts Festival – Juried outdoor art show with regional and national artists.
Season: August
Location: Bar Harbor
Cost: Free
FB Link
Acadia Birding Festival – Guided birding trips, pelagic tours, and talks during spring migration.
Season: Late May–June
Location: Mount Desert Island
Cost: $$–$$$
Link
Blue Hill Fair – Classic agricultural fair with rides, livestock, and local food.
Season: Labor Day Weekend
Location: Blue Hill
Cost: $–$$
Link
Northeast Harbor Farmers’ Market – Weekly market featuring produce, baked goods, and crafts.
Season: June–September
Location: Northeast Harbor
Cost: Free–$$
Link
Acadia Winter Carnival – Snowshoe walks, winter photography, and artisan markets.
Season: February
Location: Bar Harbor & MDI
Cost: Free–$$
Link
Seal Harbor Library Fair – Community book & craft fair with baked goods and kids’ activities.
Season: August
Location: Seal Harbor
Cost: Free–$
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