About Acadia
Acadia National Park protects the natural beauty of the highest rocky headlands along the Atlantic coastline of the United States, an abundance of habitats, and a rich cultural heritage. At 4 million visits a year, it's one of the top 10 most-visited national parks in the United States. Visitors enjoy 27 miles of historic motor roads, 158 miles of hiking trails, and 45 miles of carriage roads.
Things to do: Arts and Culture · Cultural Demonstrations · Astronomy · Stargazing · Biking · Boating · Camping · Group Camping · Climbing · Rock Climbing · Compass and GPS · Geocaching · Fishing · Freshwater Fishing
Popular trails
Curated routes with approximate round-trip distance. In the app, tap one to log it.
- Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail7.4 mi
- Ocean Path4.2 mi
- Precipice Trail3.3 mi
- Jordan Pond Path3.3 mi
- The Beehive Trail1.8 mi
- Acadia Mountain Trail4.8 mi
- Great Head Trail1.8 mi
Camping
Approximately 530 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reservations are strongly recommended in peak season (June – September).
Best time to visit
Peak season: June – September. The park is open year-round, though some roads and facilities close or run reduced hours in winter.
Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, Acadia experiences all four seasons. Summer temperatures range from 45-90F (7-30C). Fall temperatures range from 30-70F (-1-21C). Typically the first frost is in mid-October and first snowfall begins in November and can continue through April with an average accumulation of 73 inches (185 cm).
Winter temperatures range from 14-35F (-10 - 2C). Spring temperatures range from 30-70F (-1-21C).
Entrance fees
- Timed Entry Reservation - Location — Vehicle reservations are not required for any other areas of the park, or for visitors who enter the area by foot, bike, or taxi. Vehicle reservations provide a timed entry, but do not require a departure time until 9 pm, when the road closes to vehicles. Reservations do not permit re-entry. Reservations are per vehicle, not per person. Reservations do not assign a specific parking space. Parking is prohibited outside of designated spaces. Cadillac is not served by the Island Explorer bus system.$6
- Entrance - Private Vehicle — Valid for seven days. Admits private, non-commercial vehicle (15 passenger capacity or less) and all occupants. This includes rental cars, RVs, and vans with fewer than 16 passengers. If the vehicle pass is purchased, no other pass is necessary.$35
- Entrance - Motorcycle — Valid for 7 days. Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.$30
- Entrance - Per Person — Valid for seven days. Admits one individual with no car (bicyclist, hiker, pedestrian). Youth 15 and under are admitted free of charge.$20
- Entrance - Education/Academic Groups — School groups and other academic institutions may qualify for an Educational Fee Waiver. If not qualified, please check fees for large or commercial groups.Free
Annual Entrance - Park: $70. An America the Beautiful pass ($80/yr) covers every national park.
Getting there
Nearest city: Bangor, ME. Park center: 44.350°, -68.210°.
From Boston take I-95 north to Augusta, Maine, then Route 3 east to Ellsworth, and on to Mount Desert Island. S. Route 1A east to Ellsworth. In Ellsworth, take Route 3 to Mount Desert Island.
Common questions
How much does it cost to visit Acadia National Park?
Timed Entry Reservation - Location: $6. Entrance - Private Vehicle: $35. Entrance - Motorcycle: $30.
When is the best time to visit Acadia?
Peak season is June – September. The park is open year-round, with some roads and facilities on reduced winter schedules. Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine, Acadia experiences all four seasons. Summer temperatures range from 45-90F (7-30C). Fall temperatures range from 30-70F (-1-21C). Typically the first frost is in mid-October and first snowfall begins in November and can continue through April with an average accumulation of 73 inches (185 cm).
Can you camp in Acadia National Park?
Yes — about 530 campsites across the park's campgrounds. Reserve ahead in peak season.
What is the closest city to Acadia National Park?
Bangor, ME is the nearest major city. From Boston take I-95 north to Augusta, Maine, then Route 3 east to Ellsworth, and on to Mount Desert Island. S. Route 1A east to Ellsworth. In Ellsworth, take Route 3 to Mount Desert Island.
What are the best hikes in Acadia?
Popular trails include Cadillac Mountain South Ridge Trail (7.4 mi), Ocean Path (4.2 mi), Precipice Trail (3.3 mi), Jordan Pond Path (3.3 mi). The park has roughly 45 named trails.
Plan your trip
The practical bits, so more of the weekend goes to the trail.