Bar Harbor Outdoors: Acadia National Park
PLAN A VISIT TO BAR HARBOR, ME
Discovering the great outdoors in Maine
ACADIA NATIONAL PARK
Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor's mainland: a Quick Guide
On Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park, with its breathtaking views and vistas. There are many recreational activities in Acadia, including hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, bicycling and sightseeing. A range of interpretive activities are also offered, such as amphitheater presentations, guided walks, educational programs, and outreach programs. Several paved roads, including the historic 27-mile Park Loop Road, provide access to the shoreline and to the forests inside. Acadia National Park is not to be missed!
Plan a hike
There are hiking activities for all ages and skill levels listed below
Walk Jordon Pond
Skill Level: 1.5
Over a half-dozen people, ranging from 7-months to 70 years old, participated in our adventure
If you’re thinking about walking Jordan Pond There are lots of places to stop and sit - we packed a sandwich lunch & protein drinks/water. This allowed for time to stop and rest when I needed it!
You don’t need ‘hiking shoes’- but you will want sneakers with a very thick sole to navigate the back side where it’s uneven ground.
Stargazing on Cadillac Mountain
ACADIA NATIONAL PARK: ACCESSIBLE Driving EXPERIENCE
Night 1 in bar harbor, We went Stargazing on Cadillac Mountain - it is Crazy beautiful on a clear night!
Important: You must pre-purchase tickets to be able to enter the park.
If you’re looking for stargazing, Try to book the 7- 7:30pm ticket time!
You have to enter the park at that time, but you can stay till it gets dark and watch the stars. I think we stayed till about 10:30pm. We brought wine, snacks, etc. and then just hung out. The darker it gets, the more you get to see!
Weather Note: In cooler climates, pack blankets/gloves/warm socks if you plan on leaving your vehicle. We did and were very happy we remembered!
BOOKING INFO FOR STARGAZING AT ACADIA NATIONAL LINKED HERE! | Additional VEHICLE INFO HERE!
HIKE BEEHIVE TRAIL
THIS TRAIL IS RATED AT: DIFFICULT
The Beehive Loop is one of Acadia's famous rung and ladder trails.
450 feet above the sea level, this hike will challenge your body and mind as you ascend steep granite stairs, iron rungs, and exposed cliff faces. once you make it to the top, you’ll be rewarded with some really fantastic views of Acadia National Park!
More in Bar Harbor: Dining
If you’re looking for the best of Bar Harbor Dining, continue to this article
This article is part of comprehensive weekend guide to Bar Harbor including Bar Harbor Bed & Breakfasts, If you’re planning a visit, be sure to continue here.
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Original Photos in this article by Provincial Leisure Contributors: Ashley M Lands & Daniel Afonin
Co-Editing Author for this article: Victoria Potter-Lands.
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