How to Visit: Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park protects the natural beauty of the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline. At 4 million visits a year, it's one of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the United States.

Precipice Loop: 2.1 miles (hard) Rising over 1,000 feet in 0.9 miles, the Precipice Trail is a rugged, non-technical climb with open cliff faces and iron rungs. It is not recommended for small children, for people with a fear of heights, or for anyone in wet weather. Descending the Precipice is dangerous and not advised. Frequent closures for during Peregrine Falcon nesting period

The Beehive Loop Trail: 1.5 miles (hard) This hike includes ladder and rung sections, so take your time. It is well worth it!

Gorham Mountain Loop: 3.0 miles (moderate)

Jordan Pond Path: 3.1 miles (easy)

Norumbega Mountain Loop: 3.0 miles (moderate)

Six Summits: 5.9 miles (hard) This trail summits six peaks in Acadia National Park, including: Bald Peak, Parkman Peak, Gilmore Peak, Sargeant Mountain, Penobscot Mountain, and Cedar Swamp Mountain Trailhead at Goat trail parking.

Cadillac Mountain is a popular destination in the park, which is accessible by car. It is the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the U.S., so it offers magnificent views of the coast and island landscape. It is a popular spot for sunrise. Vehicle reservations are required for Cadillac Summit Road from May 25 through Oct 22.

Bar Harbor is a picturesque coastal town located on Mount Desert Island in Maine. It is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant community, and its status as the gateway to Acadia National Park. Here are some key features and characteristics of Bar Harbor: Scenic Beauty: Bar Harbor is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes. It is situated on the shores of Frenchman Bay and offers spectacular views of the bay, surrounding islands, and the Acadia mountains. The town is surrounded by lush forests, rugged coastline, and serene lakes, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Rich History: Bar Harbor became a popular summer resort destination for the wealthy in the 19th century. Many historic mansions and buildings from that era still stand in the town, adding to its charm. Vibrant Downtown: The downtown area of Bar Harbor is filled with shops, restaurants, galleries, and cafes. It's where visitors can explore local art, enjoy seafood dishes, and shop for unique souvenirs. Outdoor Activities: Besides exploring Acadia National Park, the area around Bar Harbor offers a wide range of outdoor activities, such as sea kayaking, whale watching, sailing, and rock climbing. Whale Watching: Bar Harbor is a great place for whale watching tours. The waters off the coast are known for their abundance of marine life, including humpback whales, finback whales, and minke whales. Festivals and Events: The town hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the Bar Harbor Music Festival and the Acadia Night Sky Festival, which celebrates the area's exceptional stargazing opportunities. Lobster and Seafood: As a coastal town in Maine, Bar Harbor is renowned for its fresh seafood, especially lobster. Visitors can enjoy lobster rolls, lobster bisque, and other seafood dishes at local restaurants. Sustainability: Bar Harbor is committed to sustainability and has taken steps to preserve the natural environment. Visitors can explore eco-friendly initiatives, including free shuttle buses to Acadia National Park, bike-friendly paths, and clean energy efforts. Bar Harbor's unique blend of natural beauty, history, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture make it a popular destination for travelers seeking a quintessential New England coastal experience.

Season Dates: early-May through mid-October Reservations are available two months in advance. Off-season and winter camping are not allowed at Blackwoods Campground. Blackwoods Campground is located on the east side of Mount Desert Island. The majority of Blackwoods' sites are for small and large tents; other sites can accommodate travelers with RVs. Flush toilets, running water, and a dump station are provided, as are picnic tables and fire rings.

Season Dates: end-May through beginning of October Reservations are available two months in advance Seawall Campground is located on the west side of Mount Desert Island about 4 miles (6 km) south of Southwest Harbor. The campground is approximately 18 miles from Bar Harbor. All sites at Seawall are within a short walking distance of the coastline.

Featuring an indoor pool and sauna, this Bar Harbor bed and breakfast is located 1.6 mi from Acadia National Park. Rooms at the Chiltern Inn offer a wood-burning fireplace. Decorated in warm colors and dark wood furnishings, each room features an private bathroom. Free Wi-Fi access, cable TV, bathrobes and slippers are also available. Guests can relax in the hot tub at the Bar Harbor Chiltern or their own private spa bath in select rooms. Local artwork and a piano are showcased in the gallery room. A daily breakfast and afternoon wine and cheese are served at the B&B. Various restaurants and cafes are 10 minutes’ walk away in Bar Harbor Village.

Offering rooms with an ocean view, this Bar Harbor waterfront property features daily nature cruises from its private dock and has both indoor and outdoor pools. Acadia National Park is 0.6 mi from the hotel. Cable TV and free WiFi are included in each room at the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center. The warmly decorated rooms have a refrigerator, coffee machine, and work desk. A daily continental breakfast is served at the Bar Harbor Atlantic Oceanside Hotel. Guests can visit the fitness center or relax in the hot tub. A free seasonal shuttle to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor town center is available from mid-June until Columbus day.

Located in the center of downtown Bar Harbor, this motel features a seasonal heated outdoor swimming pool is provided. A daily complimentary grab & go breakfast with fresh-baked blueberry muffins, yogurt and fruit is provided. Free WiFi is available throughout. Complimentary onsite parking is available. A mini fridge, coffee maker, and flat screen cable TV are featured in every guest room at the Bar Harbor Villager Motel - Downtown. These modern rooms also offer air conditioning and a shared patio or shared balcony. Acadia National Park is 2 miles away.

Featuring an outdoor swimming pool, this Bar Harbor, Maine hotel is 2 miles from Acadia National Park. A free breakfast buffet is offered to guests daily. Offering free Wi-Fi, each room has a flat-screen cable TV, a desk, a sitting area and a private bathroom at Best Western Acadia Park Inn. Free toiletries are also provided. A laundromat is on site. A business center is also featured at Acadia Park Inn Best Western.