At the viewpoint, you can peer over the tops of pine trees and watch the sunlight reflect off of the Gulf of Maine. Pretty little lighthouse .. emphasis on little. Jordan Pond is popular for walks around its surrounding forest, flower meadows and pond. Categories Maine, National Parks, Scenic Views, Military Veterans and Gold Star Families Can Now Get Free Access to Public Lands for Life, Options for Restoring Grizzly Bears to the North Cascades to Be Evaluated by NPS, U.S. Wild Gardens of Acadia Stop by to see native trees, wildflowers, and ferns amongst well marked and easy trails to follow. Bring sunblock and a hat. Learn more about us here and dont forget to subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content. Our first stop when we arrived in the park was Cadillac Mountain for sunset. Planning travel has actually been fun instead of tedious because of this app. But, it is certainly not for everyone. Southwest Harbor Is a less frequested section of Mount Desert Island. From the Bubbles, you can continue your hike to the north and towards Eagle Lake. You can get there via the short, yet somewhat steep, Bubbles Divide Trail. But dont expect to have the summit to yourself. For a relaxing afternoon, head over to the Jordan Pond where you can take in the views of the North and South Bubbles in the distance. Make sure you plan ahead, so you dont get caught in the middle of a storm during your hike. The two most popular ways are off Park Loop Road. On Bar Island, a trail leads to the islands highest point, where you can see Bar Harbor in the distance. Here are some insider tips you can consider for your next trip. As there are some dangerous hikes in the park, its essential to know your limits. If you want to see all the prominent oceanside landmarks, then walk along the Ocean Path trail. Snowmobiling Another fun way to see a different side of the park during the winter. From North Bubble, much of the trail traverses open ridges and barren summits, offering exceptional views of the landscapes of central Mount Desert Island. This flat walking path will take you around the entire perimeter of the lake, giving you gorgeous views of both the lake and the surrounding mountains from every angle. Along the rocky ledges and overlooks, you can witness endless miles of Maine wilderness, from the ponds to the mountaintops to the shoreline. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. Went on a nice sunny afternoon and only a few others were walking around. If you havent been to Acadia National Park before, you may have some pressing questions you really want to be answered. This hike is also a great way to see if you can handle the Precipice Trail, which is a more extreme version of the Beehive hike. Tip: The South Bubble Trail is a long and steep hike, so ensure you have all your hiking essentials to make the journey easier. Hard to find some quiet spots on the trail. Dorr Mountains views via the Ladder Trail arent as spectacular as other summits in the area, but it is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds to a quieter hike. Generally, peak falls around Columbus Day weekend. The Best Towns Near Acadia National Park Bar Harbor. Late spring through fall is the best time to hike in Acadia. This is a small cove with a wonderful pebble beach that features tons of round granite marble. This list of the best Acadia National Park photo spots is alphabetical and includes: Bass Harbor Head Light is a lighthouse in Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island, Maine. But the views from the small granite summit are pretty good, too! Although the Western Head and Cliff trail loop is significantly shorter than the Carriage Road trail, its just as vigorous. Which of these activities are you most excited about? This trail runs along the rugged cliff side of Penobscot Mountain on the west side of Jordan Pond. Time: 5-6 hours (depending on how much time you spend enjoying the views!) Definitely worth a trip. Rockefeller, a competent horseman, desired to journey into the heart of Mount Desert Island by horse and carriage. Accessible by car and on hiking trails, the Cadillac Mountain summit is the highest point on the Eastern Seaboard of the United States. You can appreciate the expansive views of Jordan Pond and North Bubble Mountain. With over 150 miles of hiking trails to explore along the Maine coast, the trails are seemingly endless. One of my personal favorites is the underrated (and unmarked) pullout at Cromwell Brook. Beautiful clear water. Tip: Moose, bears, and coyotes are just a few fierce animals living within the park, so take note of these wildlife safety tips during your hikes. 101 Fun Things to Do at Home While Social Distancing, 15 Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park, 9. The beautiful park extends along the Maine coast, but ocean views arent the only thing the park has to offer. That being said, was still very pretty. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. But remember, the majority of this trail involves a treacherous climb, which has seen several tragic accidents. All opinions are always our own. Jordan Pond and Stop for Popovers at Jordan Pond House, 15 Best Places to Whale Watch in the US + When to Go, 17 Destinations for the Best Fall Foliage in USA, Moderate, 0.9 mi out and back, 374 ft elevation, Easy, 4.5 mi out and back, 374 ft elevation, Lonely Planet: Maine & Acadia National Park, Best Easy Day Hikes in Acadia National Park, Waterproof Trail Map for Acadia National Park, Hiking Acadia National Park: A Guide to the Parks Greatest Hiking Adventures, Rock Climbing in Acadia National Park: A Pocket Guide. The trail system in Acadia is very unique, with many trails creatively weaving their way along the sides of sheer cliff faces. Best Hikes in Acadia National Park: 10 Hiking Trails With Both the Jesup Path and the Hemlock Path run from Sieur de Monts to the Great Meadow, forming a figure-8 loop through beautiful forests, past wetlands and through meadows. There are still sections with narrow cliffside ledges that can still affect those afraid of heights or not used to exposure. Whatever activity youre planning to do in Acadia National Parkfrom kayaking to horseback riding to cycling, hiking or scenic drivesyou will at some point come across a wonderful view. You can traverse rocky edges, step through lush forest and rest your feed in soft sand all in one hike! Acadia National Park is already filled with beautiful views and landscapes, but its extra magical in the fall. Excellent history and overview of the harbor. On a stormy day, visitors can also see water splash dozens of feet in the air and often feel it themselves. This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. So we parked and enjoyed the view. In late September, the leaves in Vermont, Company: About / Contact / Press / Careers Rockefeller made it a point to not flatten the hillsides to build the roads, but rather to build breast walls and retaining walls to preserve the land. Reservations are highly recommended, and its always good to check their current hours as it changes throughout the year. Acadia National Park has countless places to enjoy and we compiled some of the greatest places to view and photograph. There are plenty of modern restrooms across the entire park. I personally loved this part of Acadia National Park, simply because its much less crowded and theres the undeniable feeling of being in the wilderness. Learn more about us here and dont forget to subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive content. Its understandable that you want to do all the best hikes in Acadia National Park, but it is also essential you know your limits. It was an 8 hour drive from NYC, but we were willing to do it since we would be seeing the autumn colors both ways. Those afraid of heights or who have little to no experience with hiking and with strenuous steep scrambles may first want to try their hand at an easier iron rung hike in Acadia, such as the Jordan Cliffs Trail, which we describe below. Chances are youll get to see several stunning views in Acadia National Park during your visit. Did the hike up from Jordan pond, which does have some more rock scrambling/technical maneuvers, so not for beginners. The sunset views were quite lovely at this lake. The signs are very well marked along each intersection, but its good to have your route planned out ahead of time and to know where you want to go, as there can be a lot of intersecting trails and different routes to get to the same place. Its always important to do strength training for hiking to be in a suitable condition for your next climb. This is popular. Weve been fortunate enough to visit 34 major national parks so far, and were excited to experience more of them when we can again. Because of its ease, it can get quite crowded, especially at particular points along the trail that offer those really picturesque views. The placement of the motel gives you picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean and Frenchmans Bay. Cadillac Mountain is one of the main attractions within Acadia National Park. Contains spam, fake content or potential malware, 16 Best Connecticut Places To See Spring Flowers, 12 Best A-Frame Airbnbs And Rentals In New Hampshire, 26 Massachusetts Waterfalls To Visit This Fall, 18 Best Fall Photo Spots In The Northeast Kingdom Of Vermont. Subscribe to our newsletter for new stories, tips & events. 1. As this is a loop trail, you will end off back at the Jordan Pond House Restaurant, where you can enjoy a rewarding meal after a challenging hike. There are walking and cycling trails in Acadia that range from easy to hard in difficulty. Not for the faint of heart! If youre looking to take in the beauty of Sand Beach from a unique viewpoint, check out Great Head Trail! From the time we started #parkchasing in 2010, watching the sunrise in Acadia National Park ranked high on our national park bucket list.With some of the best views of the Atlantic coast in all of New England, theres a good reason Acadia is famous for mornings. The inn is close to all the main amenities of Bar Harbor, and the splendid breakfast is just the way to start your day of adventure. There are rocky mountain views and lush forests to explore, not to mention the 24 It was fun but definitely a little instance for about 100 feet. The Beehive Trail is a thrilling 1.5-mile loop trail in Acadia National Park. I also recommend adding North Bubble which had far fewer people and arguably better views (last picture is from North Bubble). Get my FREE Washington State Hiking Bucket List Checklist Now! We took two of their cruisesLighthouses and Puffins the following day. Start your journey from the Sand Beach parking lot, where you will begin your steep ascent of Beehive Mountain. The iconic Bubble Rock was formed thousands of years ago by glacial erosion, which deposited the stone on the top of the mountain. There isnt much cover at the top, so you have undisturbed views but are also at the suns mercy. Ocean Path Trail (Sand Beach to Otter Cliffs Point): 2.2 miles one way, 4.4 miles round trip Best view, in my opinion, is from the trail at the far end of the parking lot. No. A short climb gives you a nice view back down to Sand Beach, with the Beehive behind it. Don't worry,it's a few times a month and not spammy. They always know whats currently going on in the park. The Bubbles are a popular hike in Acadia that consists of the two hills, the North Bubble and the South Bubble, that you see when looking across Jordan Pond from the Jordon Pond House. The seafood chowder was a little more watery than I thought it would be though it was full of fish, shrimp, clams, etc. The summit of Pemetic Mountain offers easily one of the most breathtaking views in Acadia National Park. Parking is located at Sand Beach or along the road unless otherwise noted. 1.9 Watch the tide come in at Sand Beach. There are several trails that go up to Pemetic Mountain. There is a wide variety of options ranging from luxury hotels at the heart of the park to budget accommodation. Amazing view. Hike the Beehive Trail: trailhead is across the road from the Sand Beach parking lot.Hike the Precipice Trail: longer & taller than the Beehive, but closed from mid-march to mid-august for falcon nesting. It has its own parking lot, and usually gets full early. Gorham Mountain: this can be combined with the Beehive for an even longer hike. At the summit you are rewarded with views of Jordan Pond and the Atlantic. The park is known for its rolling mountains and evergreen forests, making it a hikers paradise. Along with the Beehive, the Precipice is the most famous of the iron rung routes in Acadia. There are also several bridges and waterfalls along the way, offering even opportunities for waterfront landscapes. To the west is the Penobscot Mountain which stands 1194 feet tall. Masks are needed due to it being a congested area and thankfully everyone followed the rules. Best ocean views other east coast hands down! Although swimming is allowed, many opt for sightseeing because the water typically has a max temperature of 55 degrees in the summer. However, the experience on this trail is unlike any other. Peak times are the summer months of July and August, as well as October for the fall foliage. The trail begins at the Beehive Trailhead which is located across from the Sand Beach parking lot off Park Loop Road. A two-mile section of the road is open year-round and is one of the most scenic portions of the drive. The beautiful park Of the 20 mountains on Mount Desert Island, Cadillac Mountain is a must-visit and a classic Acadia National Park photography spot! Highly recommend stopping by there! Thunder Hole is an iconic spot in Acadia National Park located just past Sand Beach along Park Loop Road. 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The 32-acre lake is popular among locals and visitors as it boasts clear and warm water. It's possible to go up and down from either side, this is not nearly as strenuous as Beehive. We visited off season so didnt need reservations, but during the season (usually end of May through October) you need a separate permit to drive up to the summit. Expect a long wait. Acadia National Park has two popular beaches. In nine different display areas, over 300 native species are labeled to make identification simple. In total it took us about 2.5 hours to complete the loop. Its because the summit of Cadillac Mountain is one of the very first places in the U.S. to see the sunrise. The philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr. and his family endowed Acadia National Park with 45 miles of rustic carriage roads that wind their way through the parks mountains and valleys. It is rated as difficult, and only physically fit and experienced hikers with no fear of heights should attempt it. From Cadillac Mountain, the highest point in the park, you get breathtaking panoramic views of Acadia National Park and the surrounding islands in the region. Its one of the most fun hikes to do at Acadia, a short walk across the ocean floorliterallythat is exposed for 1.5 hours before and after low tide. It's a small lighthouse but it's s in a picturesque setting and the drive allows you to see a good part of the island. It's not as good as a normal beach that you would find more south, but the water is calm and shallow where the beach is and the surroundings are pretty. Though not filled with huge exposure and iron rungs, the Orange and Black Path brings you back to your car by traversing back along the lower cliffsides of Champlain Mountain, and its an extremely rugged trail with lots of stone steps and scrambling. Don't worry,it's a few times a month and not spammy. This trail is no joke. Hope you enjoyed these 17 Best Spots In Acadia National Park! If you are looking for the height of luxury, then the Sand Bar Cottage Inn is the perfect place to stay during your Acadia hiking holiday. Tip: Precipice Trail gets very crowded between 9 am and 4 pm in summer and autumn. Its truly a beautiful view from here! 116 Lighthouse Rd, Bass Harbor, ME 04653, USA. Its a fairly easy wooded path out to the tip of the short rocky peninsula that lines the west side of Sand Beach. Also, shout out to Gus and Dawn, two hikers who stopped us at the trailhead and told us to do the hike BACKWARDS, using a different entrance off of Jordan Lake Pond. Along the trail, hikers will find several handrails to navigate over exposed rocks, iron rungs to climb up, and granite steps. We hiked Penobscot as a detour off the Jordan Cliffs Trail. get the best Acadia National Park rentals sent straight to your email! A perfect place to calm down and catch your breath while the rest of the park takes it away. From the challenging Precipice Trail to the leisurely Jordan Pond Path, here is all the essential information you need to know for the perfect hiking holiday. The organization this app provides has taken a huge weight off my shoulders. A post shared by Clea Litewka (@roadpoems). According to scientists, the boulder is thought to have originated 40 miles north of its current resting place. Click on "Read More" for more details about our privacy policy. Acadia has more than 125 miles of hiking trails and 45 miles of carriage roads to explore. When we did it, it was really windy at the top too! Distance: about 3 mikes round trip on the Penobscot Mountain Trail, or roughly 3.5 miles for the loop. Not to mention, Cadillac Mountain is the tallest mountain is the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard at 1,530 feet. Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Like the previous hike, Precipice has plenty of iron rungs and ladders as well as narrow ledges. From the top of Cadillac Mountain, you can admire the raw beauty of this Atlantic coast wonderland. If youre looking for some more challenging hikes that will leave the crowds behind, read on, Location: Park at the large lot located at the south end of Jordan Pond. **when they say dress warm, dont wear shorts. An easy walk will get you an amazing view. This does not affect our opinions and we only feature products that we already own or genuinely would recommend regardless of an affiliate relationship. From the top of the trail, hikers are rewarded with spectacular views of Sand Beach, Great Head, and the surrounding area. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive monthly updates, tips, and travel inspiration straight to your inbox. This trailhead is still a moderately challenging hike but can be hard for those that havent trained properly. It is a stunning hike between August and October when the forest changes from lush greens to warm oranges and rusted reds. Hike descriptions and practical tips. Precipice Trail, Bar Harbor, ME 04609, map. Dont miss it! Once on the path, youll make your way past several of the areas most popular sites, such as Deep Cove, Western Ear Island and Duck Harbor. Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park. Not an easy hike if you go straight up from Jordan Pond. August to October is also a great time to go on the best hikes in Acadia National Park. There are several narrow sections along the vertical cliff formations, but there are metal rungs to help you through these hairy parts of the hike. Easiest Hikes In Acadia National Park. Drive Park Loop Road. Acadia National Park protects 48,000 acres of coastline, lakes, and mountains where visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and outstanding scenery. A post shared by Liz Atterbury (@liz_atterbury). At times it can be really crowded but its worth finding you a place to sit down and just enjoy the beauty of Maine! Acadia National park is a breathtaking part of the Atlantic coastline that occupies Maines Mount Desert Island, Schoodic Peninsula, and Isle au Haut. It is located in the southwest portion of the island. Bar Harbor is arguably the best town near Acadia National Park for any trip. Once you reach the summit of Gorham Mountain, you will have unforgettable views of Sand Beach and Otter Point. Location: This is another summit with tons of trails leading up to it. The Abbe Museum started as a small trailside museum in Acadia National Park. Extras: Wishlist / FAQs / Code of Conduct. A scenic spot known for its massive boulder perched atop a cliff and breathtaking views of Jordan Pond, Bubble Rock Overlook is a popular hiking destination for visitors to Acadia National Park. Precipice Trail is located about a mile north of the Beehive and Sand Beach within Acadia National Park. The views from the summit of Champlain Mountain are your reward at the end of the climb. Phew! 5 Best Travel Tripods That Are Lightweight and Easy to Use 2023, 11 Amazing Things to do in Big Bend National Park. Tip: Beech Mountain Trail offers some of the best sunset and sunrise views that only Cadillac Mountain can rival. Also hard to find parking during busy summer days. Otter Cove is thought to be the location where French explorer Samuel de Champlain landed his boat in early September 1604. Thunder Hole is a naturally formed small intel along the Acadia coastline that produces amazing sights and sounds. Besides that, the town of Bar Harbor has plenty of restaurants and shops to keep you comfortable. As you slowly meander along the fully paved trail, you can spot landmarks like Eagle Lake and Bar Harbor. Jordan Pond is a 187'x176' mountain lake that features a tea house, nature trail and restaurant. The massive boulder was carried here by the tremendous activity of previous glaciers. At $409 per night, the Sand Bar Cottage Inn is the best option for those who want to enjoy a day of adventure and return to the comfort of a luxury hotel. However, almost all the trails here show the beauty of Arcadia. A fantastic range of hikes, from easy to strenuous, caters to absolutely everyone. From here, you begin your gradual incline until you reach the summit. The overlook has a parking lot which makes it accessible by vehicle, but hikers can also start lower and make their way up to the overlook via several trails. Tent-only, nonelectric campsites start at $30 per day, which is reasonable considering the campsites location. Thunder Hole is a natural inlet where you can watch waves come crashing into the cove. First things first - Get there early. Never dig through your emails again access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place. Situated a short distance from the town center, this small island is part of Acadia National Park and is accessible via a gravel bar at low tide. Youll have to shimmy across the narrow cliff sides, climb up vertical rock faces, and squeeze through giant boulders. Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. If you intend to visit Schoodic Peninsula during your stay in Acadia National Park, then the gentle Sundew Trail is a fantastic half-day outing. Ill be the first to admit it! And I was very, very wrong. I live in Washington State and you can usually find me outside on an adventure or at home hanging out with my dogs and husband. Hiking at Acadia National Park is a bucket-list item for millions of people every year. The trail scales the east face of Champlain Mountain which is Acadia National Parks 6th tallest peak. The beach is not very large because it is uniquely nestled between mountains and the rocky Acadia shoreline. Can you think of any other things to do in Acadia National Park that we might have missed? More: 15 Best Places to Whale Watch in the US + When to Go. Plenty of bars, steps and railings are in place so the conscious hiker will have no problem and thoroughly enjoy themselves. In most cases here, its about the journey and not the destination! The easy bike ride from Eagle Lake parking provides a great way to explore the area. A small parking lot is found A varied group of community volunteers maintains the Wild Gardens of Acadia in Acadia National Park, Maine. If you park down by Jordans Pond access and walk the pond path to the bottom of South Bubble, be prepared to do a little cliff face scaling. You can change your cookie preferences by clicking on "Settings". 37 Seabreeze Ave, Stonington, ME 04681, map. If that doesnt interest you, you can also go whale watching (Mid-April to October) or puffin viewing (mid-May to mid-August) depending on the time of year. Were currently in Las Vegas. Several steep parts of the hike provide handlebars to support you up the mountain. When Should You Visit Acadia National Park?If you want to avoid crowds, November has the lowest population, but March may be your best bet since it avoids the increased precipitation.People who hate bad weather should visit in summer. If you are aiming for specialized activities, then they usually run during summer and winter and are best pre-booked to secure your spots. If you somehow get tired of the beach there are some beautiful scenic views on a trail on the other side of the beach! With accommodation starting at around $180 per night, Acadia Ocean View Motel is a fantastic option for budget travelers. So, this trail isnt the friendliest for small children, pets or those with a fear of heights. The views from Cadillac Mountain are spectacular at any time of the day, though. More: 17 Destinations for the Best Fall Foliage in USA. Elevations Gain: 2900 feet. Grab my free hiking checklist and never forget anything at home! Just be aware of any travelers behind you because you will be stopping to snap photos. You might also spot beavers and peregrine falcons here. They help keep hikers on trail and in the right direction. If you want to enjoy the simple things in life, then the Blackwoods Campgrounds offer you just that. The restaurant has been in business since 1893 and serves traditional American breakfast, lunch and dinner items such as popovers and ice cream. Theyre pretty nifty. The South Ridge trail is longer but a more gradual climb to the summit. If you are searching for a relaxing stroll along Cadillac Mountain, then the Cadillac Summit Loop is ideal. Get an early start. If you can, I recommend walking this gorgeous trail at sunrise, which can be enjoyed from various spots along this scenic trail002E. Hiking in winter can be tricky as the trails become wet and boggy, so its best to go on hikes in Acadia National Park between summer and autumn. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Because its all about the tide, its important to time your visit accordingly. Sand Beach in Acadia National Park - the start of the Ocean Path. Since lobster is synonymous with Maine, we couldnt visit without going on a Lobster Boat Cruise. But like we said, this stuff isnt for everyone. Once you get past thatthe sites are wonderful, the food is delicious, the service is tentative and quick, and it is a neat spot to enjoy the first half of your day. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Penobscot is the mountain that towers over Jordan Lake on the west side at 1194 feet tall. Cannot say enough good things. Plus, you dont have to begin right at Sand Beach. Read More: Where to Stay in Acadia National Park. We learned about the history and got up close and personal with the lobsters. with incredible views of Acadia National Park. And with fewer people comes more opportunities to see wildlife and unique plants. Dont forget to dress warm for the water! The hiking trail isnt the easiest but well worth the effort to make it to the top! Location: Park at the large lot located at the south end of the Jordan Pond and begin the hike at the Jordan Pond boat launch.Distance: 3.2 mile loop. Starting near the coast, you will face a fairly steep climb up the forested cliffside before you reach the summit. There are rocky mountain views and lush forests to explore, not to mention the 24 ponds and lakes that can be found within the park. If you plan on visiting from one of the parks three front country campgrounds, though, be sure you keep an eye on the ferry schedule so you dont spend a night without any gear. With over 150 miles of trails in this park, theres a lot of hikes in Acadia to choose from. The Great Head trail is a popular hike in Acadia. However, going up this way offers unobstructed views of the pond, as you are right on the edge of the mountain. Little Hunters Beach is located near Hunters Head, southeast of Otter Cliff and Otter Cove, on the southeast side of Mount Desert Island in Acadia National Park. A post shared by Carlo of the Forest (@carlooftheforest). Changing facilities, Would recommend a wet suit if swimming. South Bubble overall was a major highlight of our time in Acadia. Theyre a short and sweet (and steep!) We use cookies to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Located on the quieter, west side of the island, Echo Lake Beach was recently given a new spacious parking area and green Island Explorer shuttle bus stop: Route 7 Southwest Harbor. 15. Theres really something for everyone here, ranging from coastline strolls along the Atlantic Ocean, to quiet forested trails, to exposed cliffside walks, to summits with ocean views. 2. It is one of the tallest headlands north of Rio de Janeiro, standing at 110 feet. While we were there, we enjoyed the sunset with hundreds of others. Location: The Sand Beach parking lotDistance: 1.6 milesNote: Reservations are required for this area of Park Loop Road so be sure to plan ahead to secure your spot. 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If you are looking for something a little more leisurely, to just enjoy the views and coastlines of Acadia National Park, there definitely are some amazing trails to choose from. The Jordan Pond House parking lot is the easiest and most accessible starting point. https://www.earthtrekkers.com/best-hikes-in-acadia-national-park See time and distance between places, and optimize your route to get the most of your day. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is another accessible sightseeing location to explore when visiting Acadia National Park. The views are absolutely amazing! Expect to see soaring eagles above and the crystal clear waters of Long Pond during your memorable hikes at Acadia National Park. Rooms start at $260 per night, and the hotel provides a beautiful pool and easy access to the attractions in Acadia. The Bubbles are twin mountain peaks that offer stunning views of Jordan Pond and Mt Desert Island. From the top of Bubble Rock, you can take in beautiful views of Penobscot Mountain on the other side of Jordan Pond. $14.95. Certain areas of Acadia require a timed-entry vehicle reservation that must be booked ahead of time. Located on Isle au Haut, the southern-most part of Acadia National Park, youll need to pick up the ferry to get to these trails. Pemetic Mountain is a tall mountain peak in Acadia National Park that features hiking trails to the summit. It's great for wading, swimming, hikes and scenic views. As you can imagine, the views from the exposed ledges and cliffsides are extraordinary, taking in a stretch of the Mount Desert Island coastline and Frenchman Bay. Took us about two hours including stopping for pictures. A bit longer than the Beehive Loop, the Precipice Loop is one of the most challenging and most popular hikes in Acadia National Park. Short hike to the bottom. But a must visit when in Acadia National Park. And you really dont have to put in too much effort to enjoy many of them either. A huge exposed granite summit gives you awesome views of Jordan Lake, the ocean, and the surrounding mountains, including Sargent, the Bubbles, and Pemetic. Best Hikes in Acadia National Park. From here, its a short 0.4 mile climb to the top. Even then, its no guarantee how thunderous the crashes will be since its just about big waves coming in. I wont liewhen we were first looking to go to Acadia National Park, I thought to myselfthe hiking in Acadia cant be that great. Despite the less than ideal hiking conditions, spring does offer you lovely warm weather and quiet in the park before the summer season begins. Best decision we made the whole trip and what a way to end our time in Maine. A small parking lot is found along the right side of the road, but there is plenty of road side parking if the lot is full.Distance: 2.5 miles for a full loop hikeElevation Gain: 1300 feet. Being a regular hiker in places like the Adirondacks and the Whites, and having just come back from a trip to Colorado where we scaled a 14,000-footer, I had my doubts about Acadia being anything to write home about. The starting point for this strenuous hike is found near Cadillac Summit Loop and is not recommended for beginner hikers. Otter Cliff is located just 0.7 miles after Thunder Hole, near to the Park Loop Road, on Mount Desert Island, Maine. Absolutely spectacular. When spending time at Jordan Pond, especially early in the morning, listen for the calls of common loons. The Precipice Trail is widely considered to be one of the most difficult hiking trails in Acadia National Park. 1.11 See the summit of Precipice Trail. Often touted as the parks most challenging hike, we think the Precipice trail is the best hike in Acadia! The human history of Acadia dates back more than 10,000 years ago with the Wabanaki people. I think this tour is where every tourist should start. Parking wasnt an issue in the lot. Schoodic Point is a well-known part of Acadia National Park because of its beauty and unique location. On the other side of the wetland and at the base of these prominent mountains, you can also clearly see the beautiful birches and other trees at Sieur de Monts. The Precipice Trail is such a fun day hike, but it might not be for you if youre afraid of heights since there are some exposed sections. If you want to walk along the coastline, there are trails for that. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. With favorites like Cadillac Mountain, Thunder Hole, and Echo Lake and more, get ready to experience the best places in Acadia National Park. Gorham Mountain, with a top elevation of 525 feet, is not one of Mount Desert Islands taller peaks, but its near proximity to the ocean gives hikers great views. The Park Loop Road takes you to all the popular spots in the park. The 1.9-mile Great Head Trail is one of Acadias greatest coastal hikes. This is our new favorite hike in Acadia. The sandy beach located in a quiet cove on the eastern side of Mount Desert Island is easy to access off the Park Loop Road via the Island Explorer Shuttle Bus. The huge bubble rock is carried here by glacier long time back and is an erratic rock which means it's composition is very different from the surrounding rocks. What To Do: Best Hiking Trails and Views in Acadia National Park. After 0.3 miles along the Spring Trail, youll start along the Jordan Cliffs Trail.Distance: 1.4 miles point-to-point. If you want the most thrilling adventure and possibly the best trail in Acadia National Park, look no further than the Precipice Trail. If you only do one of the best hikes in Acadia National Park, then let this be it since Cadillac Mountain is easily the most Its especially busy at sunset, which can be magical at this spot. Its a small walk down some stairs from the parking lot so everyone should be able to go! Expect rocky terrain and lots of stone steps, which is par for the course when hiking in Acadia. Love love love! When staying in the bustling town of Bar Harbor, the summit of Bar Island is one of the easiest views in Acadia National Park to get to. Starting at the Sand Beach parking lot, the Ocean Path trail takes you past the iconic Thunder Hole at the halfway point. Many portions of the hike simply follow Park Loop Road as it weaves its way around the coast, so a lot of what can be seen along this trail can be seen from the car, and there are designated parking areas for the main attractions. There is also a lot less scrambling and tricky rock elements to this hike. We visited Acadia the week before Columbus Day to avoid the holiday crowds, and we werent disappointed. Walks around the pond and is very beautiful. A stairwell on the left leads down to the beach. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL cookies. The walk takes you on a journey as the crystal clear waters vividly reflect the landscape around you. The summit block is tiny, but youll be sharing with a lot less people. Theres a gift shop (masks required) and a great spot for souviners. Both trails are a roundtrip hike of approximately 4 miles. Otter Cliff in Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful vistas along the North Atlantic Seaboard. Here are some of the most asked questions about hikes in Acadia and their answers. Because this trail is a bit farther away than the rest of the park, youll get to avoid the crowds, too. Your email address will not be published. Because of the rocky and rugged nature of the trails, having a good pair of hiking boots that can grip granite surfaces is essential for hiking in Acadia. It was a surreal experience to climb right above the ocean. One Day in Acadia National Park, MaineStart Big. Once you are awake, grab your much-needed coffee and breakfast and head to the top of Acadias most popular attractions Cadillac Mountain.Learn Why You Are Here. Bring in the Thunder. Hit the Beach. Let There Be Light. As the Sun Sets. A Long But Worthwhile Day. With these fantastic hiking trails, you can walk amongst the forests teeming with wildlife and take in the spectacular views of Acadia from the mountain tops. How Many Hikes Are There in Acadia National Park? Gorham Mountain trail is a unique route as you can either begin at Sand Beach or join on from the Beehive Trail. 2 Get away to the Schoodic Peninsula. A post shared by Alexander Tran (@atranphoto). One of the outstanding sights along the Park Loop Road is Otter Cove (just before Otter Cliffs and Otter Point), which offers visitors views both out to sea and inland. Park Loop Road is a 27-mile road that is the best way to do a quick tour of Acadia National Park. North Bubble is a bit more of an uphill climb that South Bubble, but the views are certainly worthy! The Park Loop Road provides access to Little Hunter Beach, however, the view from the road is essentially blocked. You can also stop in at Jordan Pond House for Afternoon Tea, or as they call it Popovers and Tea. New Hampshire, also known, Massachusetts waterfalls are such majestic places. The views from the top of the mountain are spectacular as you can take in the coast and the island scenery. As you gain elevation, the trail begins to open up, giving you expansive views over Acadia and the harbor below. The journey on the Island Explorer shuttle bus to get there takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, but you can avoid waiting by hopping off at any of the seven stops along the way. From pink granite to jagged cliffs and the iconic Sand Beach, the Ocean Path trail is suitable for both novice and expert hikers. Guide to the five best hikes in Acadia National Park, including the Beehive, the Precipice, Acadia Mountain and more. We hiked these trails on a day it rained in the morning, rocks were a little slipper but not bad. So, while the $30 fee If you want to take in the beautiful views of Jordan Pond but want a more exciting route than the pond path, take a look at the Jordan Cliffs Trail. And were not aloneits quite a popular trail. The scenic surroundings make this a must-stop for anyone visiting Acadia National Park. Find more details here. So take a cautious attitude when hiking the Precipice Trail. Unique feature, fun addition to a hike to South Bubble. Cant decide on which of these amazing Jordan Pond hikes you want to do? This is one restaurant you must plan to experience. Hi. Mount South Bubble is a scenic mountain peak in Acadia National Park with breathtaking views of Jordan Pond. Location: The trailhead is located right at the beginning of the one way portion of Park Loop Road.Distance: 4.4 miles round trip. Pemetic Mountain lines the east side of Jordan Pond and is a gorgeous summit hike in Acadia. We are ATLiens who explore a new city every year. Dorr Mountain via the Ladder Trail. When you get to the summit of Penobscot Mountain, youll be treated to some of the most expansive views of Acadia. It is estimated that approximately 180,000 people visit the lighthouse annually, which makes it the fifth most popular spot within Acadia National Park. The best time to visit Thunder Hole is around one to two hours before high tide, and be aware of dangerous tides and weather conditions. It took about 45 minutes but the waiting system is efficient. May to July is the most popular time to go on hiking trails in Acadia as you will have clear sunny skies and lush green forests. The trail also takes in Connors Nubble, which provides a superb view of Eagle Lake belowhence the name Bubbles Nubble Loop, which is a 2.6-mile hike. The lake is beautiful, clear, and refreshing with many summer visitors. The company offers a variety of different boat tour options that include a historical narration by a park employee or local. Wanderlog makes planning a trip so effortless. Learn how your comment data is processed. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Cadillac Mountain is the highest peak in Acadia National Park and provides sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. In winter, it becomes a cross-country skiing and snowshoeing route. The park gets 3.5 million visitors annually and for good reason. Sign upto getaccess to our library of resources, travel photography tips, exclusive giveaways, and inspiration to be a Local Adventurer. The clear waters of the lake reflect the image of neighboring Penobscot Mountain like a mirror. 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