15 Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park

Nestled in the stunning landscapes of Maine, Acadia National Park offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers. Known for its rugged coastlines, serene forests, and majestic mountains, the park provides a perfect backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities.

Whether you’re a hiker, a biker, or simply a nature enthusiast, there’s something special waiting for you in Acadia. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views, explore delightful trails, and catch glimpses of diverse wildlife. Acadia National Park promises a unique adventure that combines natural beauty with outdoor fun.

Beehive Trail

Our Rating: 9.2/10

Beehive Trail offers an exhilarating adventure in Acadia National Park. This popular hike challenges visitors with its iconic rung-and-ladder route. As climbers ascend, they’re rewarded with breathtaking views of Sand Beach and the rugged coastline below.

Hikers should start early to capture the serene beauty before crowds gather. The trail connects with other scenic routes, allowing explorers to extend their journey through lush forests and rocky terrains. Adrenaline-seekers will thrive on the narrow ledges, where every step promises stunning panoramas. Ideal for those looking to push their limits, the Beehive Trail delivers a memorable experience for adventurers eager to explore Acadia’s natural wonders.

Park Loop Road

Our Rating: 9.3/10

Park Loop Road offers a breathtaking journey through the scenic heart of Mount Desert Island. At 27 miles long, this road winds past dramatic coastlines and lush forests, providing endless opportunities for exploration. Travelers will find numerous spots for photos and relaxation. Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, invites early risers to witness stunning sunrises. This location is perfect for those who love capturing nature’s beauty.

Cyclists can also enjoy riding along the road, soaking in the sights of granite cliffs and peaceful, wooded areas. Each turn reveals a new view, from rocky shores to serene landscapes, making it an unforgettable journey for nature lovers.

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse stands proudly at the southern end of Mount Desert Island. This iconic lighthouse, perched on rocky cliffs, provides stunning views of the ocean. Visitors often enjoy early morning visits or watch breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in warm hues.

Walk along the surrounding paths to explore more of the rugged coastline. Keep an eye out for deer that roam the area freely, adding a touch of wildlife wonder to your visit. The site offers a perfect blend of history and nature, making it a memorable stop on any Acadia adventure.

Cadillac Mountain

Our Rating: 9.5/10

Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard, offers breathtaking sunrise views that draw visitors from far and wide. Early risers are rewarded with golden hues dancing across the sky, painting a perfect start to the day. The mountain’s North Ridge and South Ridge Trails cater to various hiking preferences. Adventurers revel in lush forests and granite ridges during their picturesque climb.

The South Ridge Trail provides a long yet moderate trek across enchanting landscapes. Driving to the summit is equally rewarding for those who prefer a leisurely exploration. The panoramic view from the top stretches as far as the eye can see, offering a peaceful spot to take in the natural beauty of Acadia National Park.

Wild Gardens of Acadia

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Wild Gardens of Acadia is a delightful stop for nature lovers. This beautiful garden showcases the diverse plant life found in Maine. Visitors can wander through twelve distinct habitats, each offering a unique glimpse into the local ecosystem.

Stroll along well-maintained paths and enjoy the vibrant colors and fragrances of native plants and flowers. Spot birds and butterflies fluttering around, making it a perfect place for photography. The garden is a peaceful retreat, ideal for a relaxing afternoon. Keep an eye out for interpretive signs that provide interesting facts about the plants and their roles in the environment.

Jordan Pond

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Jordan Pond is a stunning destination known for its crystal-clear waters and scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the Jordan Pond Path, a simple trail that circles the pond and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The Beehive Trail, nearby, attracts those in search of adventure. After a day of exploration, travelers often stop at the Jordan Pond House Restaurant to taste its famous popovers paired with tea—a delightful treat while taking in the tranquil landscape. Photographers and nature lovers will find endless inspiration in the tranquil reflections on the pond’s surface, capturing the essence of Acadia’s natural charm.

Gorham Mountain Loop

Our Rating: 8.7/10

The Gorham Mountain Loop offers an incredible hiking experience. This trail winds through beautiful granite rock formations and leads to a summit with breathtaking views of the bay. Hikers can enjoy stunning ocean views along the way. Rocky coastlines and distant views of Cadillac Mountain add charm to the trail. It’s suitable for most hikers due to its moderate difficulty.

Wildlife enthusiasts may spot various bird species as they walk. Exploring the loop provides a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty, making it a favorite among visitors. The hike captures the essence of Acadia’s rugged coastal landscape, inviting outdoor lovers to immerse themselves in the park’s natural splendor.

Sand Beach

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nestled between towering cliffs, Sand Beach is a stunning stretch along the coast of Acadia National Park. Its soft, golden sand makes it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the sun. The beach is known for its unique blend of salt water and fresh water from nearby streams.

Visitors can take a refreshing swim in the chilly Atlantic waters or explore the beach’s tidal pools. Each visit reveals different treasures like seashells and small marine life. For those who love a gentle stroll, the scenic Ocean Path begins here, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline. Sand Beach is a favorite for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking tranquility by the sea.

Asticou Azalea Garden

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Nestled in the heart of Mount Desert Island, the Asticou Azalea Garden is a serene paradise for nature lovers. This Japanese-inspired garden bursts into color with rhododendrons and azaleas each spring. The calm paths invite visitors to stroll leisurely, surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant floral displays.

Artfully designed landscapes provide a peaceful setting ideal for reflection and relaxation. Winding paths, bridges, and a tranquil pond create a soothing ambiance. The detailed work in each garden section offers countless photo opportunities for visitors and photography enthusiasts alike, capturing the natural beauty enhanced by careful design.

Thuya Garden

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Thuya Garden, nestled on Mount Desert Island, offers a serene escape into nature’s beauty. Visitors can stroll through lush landscapes filled with colorful flowers and well-kept paths. It’s a perfect spot for photography or simply relaxing amidst the beauty of well-designed formal and perennial gardens.

Art lovers will appreciate the garden’s unique blend of rustic charm and elegance, reflecting the vision of its creator, Joseph Henry Curtis. Conveniently located near the Asticou Inn, this garden is easily accessible and offers a peaceful retreat for those exploring the island. It’s an ideal place for a quiet walk or a picnic, providing an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park

Our Rating: 8.6/10

Charlotte Rhoades Butterfly Park is a hidden gem where visitors can connect with nature. Lush gardens bloom with vibrant flowers, creating the perfect environment for colorful butterflies. This sanctuary is particularly famous for Monarch butterflies, and guests might catch glimpses of their delicate wings fluttering by.

The park invites children and adults alike to explore its trails, offering a peaceful retreat and a chance to learn about butterfly life cycles. It’s an ideal spot for taking scenic photos or simply enjoying a quiet moment surrounded by the beauty of nature.

Mount Desert Island

Our Rating: 9.1/10

Mount Desert Island offers a playground filled with natural beauty and adventure. Visitors can hike up Cadillac Mountain for breathtaking sunrise views that paint the sky with fiery hues. Explorers will find countless trails at Acadia, each offering a unique perspective of the lush landscape.

The Beehive Trail promises an exhilarating climb, with rewarding views of the coastline. Nature enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the chance to experience wildlife tours, where seals and eagles can be spotted in their natural habitats. Whether trekking rugged paths or enjoying serene strolls, Mount Desert Island is a destination of exhilarating discoveries.

Abbe Museum

Our Rating: 8.5/10

The Abbe Museum is a captivating stop for anyone interested in the Native American history and culture of Maine. Located in the picturesque setting of Bar Harbor, it offers engaging exhibitions that spotlight the Wabanaki people, including the Penobscot, Passamaquoddy, Micmac, and Maliseet tribes.

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits at the downtown location, which provide insights into the traditions and crafts of the Wabanaki. The museum features spaces for both active learning and quiet reflection, ensuring a fulfilling experience for all. The Abbe Museum at Sieur de Monts Spring invites guests to discover its woodland charm. It’s a perfect blend of nature and culture, making it a must-visit spot for park explorers.

Pemetic Mountain

Our Rating: 8.5/10

Pemetic Mountain offers hikers a refreshing adventure. Standing proudly with a height that provides breathtaking views, it is a must-visit for outdoor lovers. The trails weave through dense forests and open ridges, allowing for both thrills and stunning scenery.

Explorers can start on the Pemetic Northwest Trail for a less crowded path. This route leads to amazing views of the surrounding landscape. It’s perfect for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Whether you’re climbing alone or with family, Pemetic Mountain promises a fulfilling experience. The crisp air and the chance to spot wildlife enhance the journey, making it a favorite for those seeking peace and adventure in nature.

Eagle Lake

Our Rating: 8.7/10

Surrounded by lush forests, Eagle Lake is a perfect spot for scenic picnics and relaxation. Visitors can find peace amidst nature’s beauty while enjoying a meal by the water. The lake offers fantastic biking opportunities along its carriage roads. These well-maintained paths provide stunning views and are ideal for both beginners and seasoned cyclists.

Nature lovers can explore hiking trails around the lake. These trails vary in difficulty, offering everybody a chance to enjoy the serene atmosphere. Birdwatching is a popular activity here, with a chance to spot some of the area’s beautiful wildlife.

Acadia National Park offers an unforgettable experience with its stunning landscapes and diverse activities, from sunrise at Cadillac Mountain to the serene trails of Jordan Pond. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a touch of nature’s beauty, this park provides an enriching escape for all who visit.