A Day in Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful National Parks on the eastern side of the United States. Just 50 miles south of Bangor, Maine, this park preserves half of Mount Desert Island. Acadia is beautiful year round, but I would highly recommend visiting during the fall season when the leaves are at their most colorful. Driving through the park during this time is truly magical.

The Porcupine Islands are one of the key sights. They have a long history as a hiding place. During the French and Indian War, French gunboats often hid behind these islands waiting to ambush British ships. It’s often thought that these early events are how this body of water got the name, Frenchman Bay.

Another highlight is the summit of Cadillac Mountain. This is the highest point on the island and offers some stunning views of the surrounding area. There are a number of hiking trails as well as a paved road that lead up to the top. Just try to arrive early, as parking spots fill up quickly. This is also a superb place to watch the sunrise.

Sand Beach is another must see when driving through Acadia. Nestled in a small inlet between the granite mountains and rocky shores of Mount Desert Island, this gorgeous 290 yard long beach is one of the most popular points of interest on the island. It’s a great place to have a picnic or just spend a few hours relaxing.

The whole park is absolutely stunning! You’ll find yourself making countless stops at many of the scenic overlooks. Be sure to drive the entire loop. It’s the perfect way to spend a day in Acadia National Park. Afterwards, check out the very quaint, coastal town of Bar Harbor. It’s a lovely place to walk around and do a bit of shopping. Also, no visit is complete without enjoying a delicious Maine lobster!