GENERAL INFORMATION
Where is Acadia National Park located and what is the travel distance to the park?
Acadia is located on Mount Desert Island along the coast of Maine. The park is 264 miles from Boston and 50 miles from Bangor, Maine. See Directions for approximate mileage from various cities.
What is the best driving route to take to Acadia from the south?
There are two routes:
- Take I-95 north to Augusta, Maine; from Augusta take Route 3 east to Ellsworth and on to Mount Desert Island.
- Take I-95 north to Bangor, Maine; from Bangor take Route 1A east to Ellsworth; from Ellsworth take Route 3 to Mount Desert Island.
Do I need a car to visit Acadia National Park?
You do not need a car when the Island Explorer Shuttle Bus is operating (June 23 to early October). Visit the Island Explorer website for specific details on car-free vacation options.
How many days should I spend in Acadia?
An average stay here is 3-4 days.
How much does it cost to visit the park?
Weekly passes are $20 per vehicle. See Entrance Fees for details and other passes. You can purchase passes at information centers throughout the park.
Is there any lodging in the park?
There is no lodging, but the park has two campgrounds on Mount Desert Island as well as five lean-to shelters on Isle au Haut. There are many types of accommodations in nearby towns. Contact area chambers of commerce for lodging information.
What is there to do in Acadia?
There are many miles of shoreline to explore, 125 miles of hiking trails, and 45 miles of carriage roads. Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities. Two beaches offer salt water or fresh water in which to swim. A variety of ranger-led programs will introduce you to Acadia's diverse natural and cultural history.
What ranger-led activities are available?
Between mid-May and mid-October park rangers offer hikes, walks, boat cruises, talks, evening amphitheater programs, and children's programs. They also provide opportunities to view peregrine falcons and raptors.
What is there for children to do in Acadia?
Children of all ages can participate in the Junior Ranger Program. Many of the ranger-led programs are specifically designed for children and families.
Are pets allowed in the park?
Pets must be leashed and attended or otherwise physically restrained at all times. Pets are allowed in all park locations except Sand Beach, Echo Lake Beach, Isle au Haut campground, ladder trails, public buildings, and lakes that are public drinking water supplies. Please do not bring pets to ranger-led activities. Service dogs or sight-guiding dogs may accompany their owner to all park locations unless the area is closed to all visitors. See Pets for more information.
When does the Park Loop Road open and close each year?
The Park Loop Road closes on December 1, unless there is a significant snowfall that forces an earlier closure. The road reopens on April 15 if weather permits. A two-mile section of the road, one of the most scenic sections, remains open all year.
How long is the Park Loop Road and how long will it take to drive it?
Taking 3-4 hours, including some stops, is recommended for the entire 27-mile road. An audio tour of the Park Loop Road on CD is available for purchase at Hulls Cove Visitor Center.
Where can I bicycle in the park?
There are 45 miles of carriage roads open to bikers and walkers. The Park Loop Road is also open to bikers, but there is no shoulder on the road. Biking the Park Loop Road is not advised during the busy part of the day (appprox. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.). You must bike with the traffic flow on the one-way section of the Park Loop Road. Bikes can be rented in nearby towns.
When does the Island Explorer Shuttle Bus run and where does it go?
The operates from late June and through Columbus Day. It travels between Bar Harbor, Northeast Harbor, Southwest Harbor, and various locations in the park.
How can I get more information about the area?
Local chambers of commerce can provide information about lodging, dining, activities, and more.
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