Park rangers lead a variety of programs from late May to early October. Many programs are designed just for kids.

From mid-May through mid-October, kids of all ages can take part in the Junior Ranger Program to learn more about Acadia National Park. Complete fun activities like drawing a favorite animal or scavenger hunt bingo, participate in ranger-led programs, and take the junior ranger pledge to earn a signed certificate and an embroidered patch. Content and number of activities vary based on age. Purchase junior ranger booklets at Eastern National outlets in the park.

If you're only here for a short stay and don't have enough time to complete all of the Junior Ranger Program requirements, there is still plenty to do. Try some of the activities listed below, or explore the rest of this website to come up with ideas of your own. The park newspaper, the Beaver Log, lists all park programs, which are offered from late May through early October.

Attend a Children's Program
Designed just for kids, these programs use hands-on activities to explore the park's plants, animals, and history. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult. Reservations are required.

Take a Ranger-Narrated Boat Cruise
Four different park-ranger narrated boat cruises are offered during the season. Touch real sea life brought up from the ocean floor; search for seals, porpoises, and bird life; and explore island life and maritime history. Cruises vary from 2 hours to 4.5 hours.

Visit the Nature Center
Hands-on exhibits help you uncover the secrets behind how the park manages its plants and animals. What kinds of birds are found in the park? In which habitat can you find snakes or frogs? Visit the Nature Center at Sieur de Monts Spring to find out.

Play in the Sand
Sand Beach is one of only two sandy ocean beaches on Mount Desert Island. If the water there is too cold for you (only 55 degrees at best!), try Echo Lake Beach on Route 102 north of Southwest Harbor.

Go for a Hike or a Bike Ride
The park has 125 miles of easy to strenuous trails for hiking and 45 miles of winding carriage roads for walking or biking.

Traveling in Maine?
If you're looking for other outdoor activities in Maine, check out the Take It Outside website. It offers a calendar of fun activities across the state.